What situation can lead to discouragement? Give an example
The situation of advancing age or poor health can be tough for some. An example is that of Carol. She once had the privilege of serving where the need was greater. During that time, she conducted 35 Bible studies and helped several progress to dedication and baptism. Carol had a productive ministry! But her health failed, and she became confined mostly to her home. Because she can’t do as much as others, she feels not as as faithful as they are. She calls it a battle that is hard to endure.
What practical counsel did the apostle Peter give Christians?
Apostle Peter urged his brothers to use whatever gifts and talents they had to build up their fellow believers. There’s no reason why we should hold back from using our gifts to the fullest for fear that others may become jealous or get discouraged. The advice from Peter helps us to give our personal best to Jehovah.
Why is it unreasonable to compare ourselves with others?
Because our best may not be another publisher’s best. Yet we need to respect others talents and skills. Just like we differ in skin types, emotionally, and in ability, we know that all of us can’t be good in the same thing at the same level. An example is given here For example, a brother may give excellent public talks. That is his strength. In his heart, though, he may look down on a brother who struggles with giving talks. But that brother may excel in showing hospitality, training his children, or being zealous in the ministry.
What can we learn from King David?
King David was not perfect. He made some serious mistakes but he is a good example for us Because when he was corrected, he did not try to justify himself. Instead, he accepted the strong counsel he received and was sincerely sorry for what he had done. As a result, Jehovah forgave him.
To be like him, we need search our souls and ask ourselves: ‘How do I respond to counsel? Do I quickly acknowledge my mistakes, or do I try to justify myself? Am I quick to blame others? Do I try hard not to repeat my mistakes?’ We also need to look at other areas of his life that were positive.
Why can we rejoice in serving Jehovah even when our circumstances limit what we can do?
In any situation we find ourselves, we must be willing to give Jehovah our best. It doesn’t matter if it is much or little. It just has to be our best at that moment. If we begin to feel that our service is somehow not enough to please Jehovah, we need to remind ourselves that Jehovah is the one who sets the standard for what pleases him. We must try to refrain from comparing ourselves to others. But we must use our gift (if there are any) to build up others in the congregation.