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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 10:53:35 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 10:54:07 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:05:24 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:29:10 GMT -5
9:50 In All Circumstances, “Have Faith in God” "In reply Jesus said to them: “Have faith in God"" - Mark 11:22
INTRODUCTION Faith in God means trusting completely in Jehovah and his promises (Hebrews 11:1). Future trials may call for us to exercise greater faith and we will no doubt need greater faith as the great tribulation arrives. Still, instead of speculating on what trials we may well face, we do better to strengthen our faith now. Any trials and challenges we face now should be used as an opporutunity to strengthen our faith now. Jesus emphasised that strong faith would help with whatever trial, just as a runner is prepared for a marathon is more capable by training. ( Mark 11:12-14 - fig tree ) Faith is also essential for us to have a close relationship with Jehovah (Heb 11:6). Jehovah is pleased when he sees us obeying him despite trials and opposition. Gideon, one of the 16 individuals mentioned in Hebrews chapters 11, was cautious by nature. We too may be cautious or even timid by nature but like Gideon we can be courageous if we have faith. Others unnamed in Hebrews, referred to were loyal right to their death, such as individuals Zechariah (the cousin of kind Jehoash), we too may face ridicule, or face the test when someone close to us abandons true worship, like king Jehoash. PERSONAL STUDY PROJECT Examine the lives of others mentioned in Hebrews 11 "We can be rich in faith" by benefiting from the program - James 2:5 wholesouled devotion to Him.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:29:53 GMT -5
10:05 SYMPOSIUM: Word Pictures That Inspire Faith in Jehovah INTRODUCTION: Faith is a primary requirement for Christians. Faith is more than mere belief, it involves a trust in him (Jame 2:9; Hebrews 6:1). A word picture compares between a topic and a theme and the following word pictures will inspire faith in us by helping us to mediate on the many ways Jehovah takes car of us. #1 SHIELD: "Jehovah is my strength and my shield, in him my heart trusts." - Ps 28:7How does this word picture inspire faith in Jehovah? Jehovah provides protection like no other, he is the All Mighty, nobody can prevent Jehovah from protecting his servants (see Ps 69:6). Jehovah is the Sovereign Lord, Lord of all, Jehovah of Armies, controlling a large army of spirit creatures which he uses to protect us. He is also called "King od Eternity", a title that highlights his power to protect us is endlessly, not even death can remove us from his protective power. When is thinking of Jehovah as our shield helpful? When under persecution such as our brothers in Russia. When facing family opposition, the stress of bullying in school or at work or facing the "time and unforseen occurances" that come from living in the present distressing times (Ecc 9:11). We must remember that Jehovah will help us to face opposition and difficulties courageously (compare Ps 91: 1, 4). Does this mean that no servant of Jehovah will suffer harm? The Draw Close book states: Jehovah may protect us phsyically if that be his will but even if not, we have the guarantee of his protection during the resurrection individually. Confidence in Jehovah helps us remain firm and keep our integrity when under pressure to compromise our faith. We must nourish our faith by: - progressviely studying God's word - sharing in the preaching word (Psalms 118: 6, 7, 10; Psalms 91:11) Soliloquy: Brother meditates on good reasons not to be discouraged from going on the field ministry. CONCLUSION Always remember Jehovah is real, build our confidence in Jehovah now and hold firmly to Jehovah as our shield (John 7:28).
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:30:04 GMT -5
Part 3 SYMPOSIUM: Word Pictures That Inspire Faith in Jehovah: FATHER INTRODUCTION: Few words evoke deeper emotions in us than the word "Father". Jesus viewed God as his Father and encouraged his listeners to do the same ( Mat 6:9) The term Jesus used is akin to an intimate word a child uses, a very touching. Jehovah is described as a Father because he is our life giver, the one sustaining life and making it enjoyable, he protects us. Jehovah never hesitates to express his affection support and approval (see Mt 3 17) and he disciplines us but never in an abusive or excessive way (Heb 12:7). How does this word picture inspire faith in Jehovah? Thinking of Jehovah as our Father strengthens the bond we have with him (Rom 8: 38, 39), accepting his fatherly discipline helps to us make spiritual progress. When is it especially helpful to think of Jehovah as a Father? When we pray, especially when we feel down, anxious or depressed (Psalms 88: 1, 2). Feelings of unworthiness make prayer difficult. Satan may try to make us feel as if we are unworthy and delights in crushing the discouraged. Jehovah values our individual welfare, spirituality and feelings (see verse 2). Jehovah the perfect Father knows how to give the best of gifts, especially his holy spirit (Luke 11: 11-13). Jehovah's spirit or "active force" can cleans our mind, help us to see trials as an opportunity to vindicate his sovereignty, helps us to have faith in our glorious future. INTERVIEW: Sister who experienced period of discouragement (feelings of unworthiness due to past sins and mistakes). She reasoned if she cannot forget past experiences she to use the present to create new positive experiences. Part 4 SYMPOSIUM: Word Pictures That Inspire Faith in Jehovah: ROCK "TheRock, perfect is his activity, For all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness+ who is never unjust;Righteous and upright is he.+" - Deut 32:4INTRODUCTION: Massive rock structures are indeed aweinspiring. Some people are compared to rock because we can observe and seeing them to be solid, trustworthy, stable, dependable and supportive. How does this word picture inspire faith in Jehovah? Jehovah is reliable, his standards are always dependable and is always attentive to our needs. In picturing Jehovah as our rock inspires faith in him and helps us trusting in him and strive to follow his directions at all times (Prov 3:5) When is thinking of Jehovah in this way especially helpful? When dealing with stress and difficulties, such as ill health or old age. David served Jehovah throughout his life; when David was old he con (Ps 71:9) We must recognize Jehovah will always supply us with strength and support. Meditate appreciatively on Jehovah's ways, his dealings is something Jehovah appreciates (see Ps 19:14) Jesus said Jehovah notices even little sparrows, so he cares for the elderly who can perhaps do nothing more than meditate on Jehovah's ways. How can we demonstrate: To keep anxiety under control we must be completely convinced in Jehovah's saving powers. Be careful how much news we consume. Avoid raising our anxiety levels by obsessing over the news. Joshua demonstrated his absolute confidence in Jehovah saving power. INTERVIEW Long term special power as to how her confidence in Jehovah benefited her as she grows older. CONCLUSION Jehovah is a rock but not jaggard, impersonal or cold, we must turn to Jehovah when we come under attack or when our hearts are being overtaken by anxiety, we much allow Jehovah to be a stabalizing influence in our lives (Ps 73: 26, Jer 17:ç)
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:30:15 GMT -5
Part 4 SYMPOSIUM: Word Pictures That Inspire Faith in Jehovah: SHEPHERD "Jehovah is my Shepherd.I will lack nothing" - Psalms 23:1INTRODUCTION: We all at times are faced with situations such as trauma, sickness, disease, which may render us feeling helpless and lost. The bible describes Jehovah as a shepherd because he his strong, tender and compassionate. How does this word picture inspire faith in Jehovah? Describing Jehovah as a shepherd who is strong, tender and compassionate to make us feel safe, secure and loved. When is it particularly helpful to think of Jehovah as a shepherd? In any of the following three situations: (1) When we need guidance. Sheep have reportedly a limited vision and have no natural orientation so they can easily get lost and need leading (read verse 2, 3) we too need guidance since the human heart tends to mislead us ( Jer 10: 23). Direction from Jehovah, which he provides by means of his word, provides us with the guidance we need. (2) when we are spiritual vulnerable and need protection. (read verse 4) We at times face persecution or emotional physical or emotional pain when facing death of ourselves or loved ones. This can be like a deep valley, at those times we may feel like a vulnerable, miserable and hopeless. Jehovah remains our constant companion during these dark times, he will give us the spiritual encouragement by means of his spirit to endures any test or challenge we may face. Jehovah is the only one capable of knowing and fully understanding our problems. No situation is beyond his reach and out of love Jehovah looks forward to doing something to helping us. (3) When we need spiritual food (verse 5). When making decisions we have the bible and bible based literature and our three websites (movies, cartoons, music) We also have loving under shepherds all of which proves Jehovah he loves us and offers us encouragement and spiritual support DEMONSTRATION: Two elders shepherd a single mother and her teenage daughter; they direct her to our website. How can we demonstrate faith in Jehovah as a shepherd? By contemplating the various instances that Jehovah has been a shepherd for us. Can you recall a recent blessing? Like David of old we can feel secure knowing that if we remain close to Jehovah he will take care of us "all the days of our live" (verse 6) Reflecting on our "love story" with Jehovah and meditating on his blessings on a regular basis will help us feel safe and secure. There are future blessing for thinking of Jehovah as our Shepherd and even now we can "surely" enjoy Jehovah's goodness and loyal.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:30:24 GMT -5
11:15 “Help Me Out Where I Need Faith!” "He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah* your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’" - Mat 22:37INTRODUCTION Our faith is being tested every day and strong faith is needed. We need to be careful not to be overconvident and need to regularly and humbly examine the quality of our faith as did the father who appealed to for "more faith". We can improve the quality of our faith if we humbly listen to the word our faith will grow (Rom 10:17). Three ways to listen (1) Have good study habits, fully using bible study aids (the Insight book, for example contains over 3000 bible characters) or the brochure "see the good land". Are we buying out the time to deeping our knowledge of the bible and meditating on it. (2) Regular meeting attendance. The meeting material and loving expressions of faith from our brothers and sisters is encouraging and faith building. Could we also prepare upbuilding (3) Have a full share in the Christian ministry. Preaching impresses the truths deeper in our hearts. Make it your goal to share in all forms of the ministry, even consider sharing as an auxilary or regular pioneer. INTERVIEW A regular Pioneer. How should we react when others in the Congregation display a lack of faith? When Peter showed a lack of faith Jesus did not repremand, scold him or simply let him drown, Jesus supported Peter and reassured him that he still loved him (see Mat 14: 30, 31). How to offer support? Our tone of voice, facial expressions and tone when speaking in a loving reassuring way to such ones shows we still love them. Always remember we too need more faith, this will help us be patient and loving when others show lack of faith.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 11:32:24 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 12:03:18 GMT -5
1:30 PUBLIC BIBLE DISCOURSE: True Faith - What is it, and How is it Shown? "He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah* your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’" - Mat 22:37INTRODUCTION Many think that faith is believing something for which there is no proof yet that is credulity, it is not blind, illogical or inborn. True faith is built built on evidence. Faith in reality is built on reason and accurate knowledge"the assured expectation of what is hoped for, the evident demonstration [ftn convincing evidence] of realities that are not seen" ( Heb 11:1). To illustrate: The Title deed for a new home is so legally binding that for all practical purposes it is the house itself. Faith is like our "title deed" for the reality of the house. True faith is based on solid evidence, its informed faith. Faith is a part of our everyday lives, for example we have "faith" our employer will pay us, or a farmer has faith that his planted crops will grow. How do we develop true faith? By studying the bible. Faith is not a passive belief, so if our love for God is genuine it will be evident in the way we live our lives ( James 2:17). Adam was not an atheist, he knew God existed and he knew God's blessings and his purpose, his actions showed that he lacked faith in and love for God. In contrast Jesus, although deeply troubled by the prospect of being executed as a blasphemer of his beloved Father, showed his faith by submitting to Jehovah's will, trusting that God's way of doing things was the right thing (Mat 26:39). True faith is shown by our actions:
- by applying bible principles in our daily lives
- when we endure trials with mildness and patience
- when we put spiritual matters ahead of secular employment (Mat 6:33)
- when we speak to others about bible truths (2 Cor 4:13)
True faith benefits us: - Exercising faith in Christ's ransom puts our minds at ease about past sins (Acts 3:19) - we are not anxious over the future of the earth ( Isaiah 45:18) - Faith in the resurrection provides real comfort when we lose a loved one in death ( John 5: 28, 29); see Mark 5:42) You can cultivate true faith, ask Jehovah to grow strong in faith. When we cultivate true faith we can look forward to kingdom blessings.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 12:05:43 GMT -5
2:40 SYMPOSIUM: "Throw Off ... the Sin That Easily Entangles Us " let us also throw off every weight and the sin that easily entangles us,and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" - Heb 3:12 compare Heb INTRODUCTION: With the end of this system so near our faith is essential for Christians and cannot be taken for granted and "lack of faith" is the sin that easily entangles us. Ancient greco-roman athlets ran naked to be free from any physical encomberment. We too must be prepared to exert ourselves spiritually and maintain our faith. To do so we resist the temptations that could plunge us into immorality. We have excellent examples in the bible, for example Abraham & Sarah who sacrificed a comfortable life for true worship and never regretted those sacrifices (Heb 11:13). Their faith allowed them to stick to their assignment. Like them and other faithful servants we can run successfully and avoid being entangles Help be more aware of the dangers that can corrupt our faith. Take note of the temptation to erode faith and the course to strengthen faith. #1 Jehovah Will Remove Wickedness"He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah* your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’" - Psalms 73:2-5Envying the wicked. It is easy to envy the fleeting prosperity of the wicked (read verse 12). We could be tempted to use the world to the full although knowing it will pass away very soon (1 Cor 7:29, 31).If we envry the lifestyle of unbelievers, its evidence our faith is weakening. We could begin to view the sacrifices we have made as missed opportunities. Such views can effect our conviction and our zeal (Rev 3:15). - Reject the course of the wicked: With strong effort we can avoid an "envious" eye and stay focused on Jehovah's kingdom (see - Mat 6:22); this will enable us to see Satan's sytem for what it really is, a sinking ship doomed to destruction ( Rev 3:17, 18). We have all made sacrifices of a promising career or business opportunities, or marriage or we have put off having children, to have a full share in spiritual activity. Highly esteem the sacrifices you have made they are an evidence of your faith. Prepare now by rejecting things that will not exist in the new world. DEMONSTRATION: Youth invited to friends to go to a concert that features unwholesome music. It is easy to adopt the thinking and conduct of this world. Like a strong river current that pulls us downstream we must put forth every effort. Jehovah has provided us with everything we need to be spiritually successful.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 12:06:40 GMT -5
2:40 SYMPOSIUM: "Throw Off ... the Sin That Easily Entangles Us #2 Jehovah Will Provide Your Necessities"Keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you." - Mat 6:33INTRODUCTION People wealth, comfort and family are people's main on life but focusing one's life solely on the pursuit of such things often leads to frustration and anxiety. Putting God's kingdom first in life results in guaranteed blessings. We have the scriptural responsibility to care for and provide for our material needs but putting theses things before the pursuit of the kingdom demonstrates a lack of faith in Jehovah's ability to provide for us and our families. - Mediate on how Jehovah has sustained his faithful servants in times past. For example Jehovah provided for Elijah during the famine ( 1 Kings 17:4) - Appreciatively accept any provisions from Jehovah. Sometimes Jehovah provides in unsual ways (Ravens are known for hoarding, not sharing food). - Obeying unusual instructions (Zarapheh was Queen Jezebel's territory). The widow put Elijah's needs before her own and her faith was rewarded (read verse 13). Today servants of Jehovah have displayed similar faith but resigning from jobs that conflict with Christian principles. Such ones can confirm that Jehovah's hand is not short. Anxieties may come but Jehovah has always stood by them. DEMONSTRATION: Husband, out of work, informed of a job opportunity that would threaten his spirituality. Decide not to reverse priorities. Mat 6:33 doesn't mean we will never be short of the necessities, Jehovah has on occassions allowed some brothers to endured severe trials such as during famine or under persecution in camps. If we meet with such severe trials keep in mind Phil 2:29 encourages us to view such suffering as a privilege and an honor. Under no circumstances should we resort to unscriptural means to escape a trial. Jehovah will give us the strength to endure.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 12:08:34 GMT -5
9:50 SYMPOSIUM: "Throw off;.. the Sin that Easily Entangles Us #3 Jehovah Will Resurrect the dead"He said to him: "If a man dies, can he live again? I will wait all the days of my compulsory service Until my relief comes." - Job 14:14A lack of faith can be caused by anxiety and there are few things that can cause us more anxiety if our lives or the life of our loved ones are under threat. At that time our faith in the resurrection hope is what will anchor us at such times. Job expressed his confidence that Jehovah "yearns" for the work of his hands; we are the special "work of art" that the artist holds dear. There are 9 resurrections in the bible and over 500 were witnesses to Jesus' resurrection. Our stronge faith in the resurrection is especially necessary: - If persecutors threaten us with death. In this situation we may be tempted to give in to fear of man which is a snare, baited with our natural desire to avoid suffering but compromise doesn't necessarily bring relief from suffering( Prov 29:25) [Note the 160 brothers in hungry]. Jehovah can strengthen us with holy spirit and if we die faithful Jehovah can protect us in the one place our enemies cannot get to us, that is in his loving memory. Abraham remained confident in God's power to save by resurrection if necessary and this confidence enabled him to face his greatest test (see ( Heb 11:17). If we reason upon God's immeasurable power and love for us we too can come off victorious. Remember prayers can strengthen us in this regard (Acts 4 - prayer for boldness) - faced with severe illness and possible death ( Mark 8:35). Saving our lives by unscriptural means may cost us our everlasting life. We do not accept medical treatments that conflict bible principles, such as: i) blood transfusions (see Acts 15:29) ii) refuse medical therapies linked with spiritism ( Isaiah 1:17). Becoming overly focus on preserving our lives in this system of things weakens our resolve to endure. Put faith in Jehovah as the source of life, he has the power and the strong desire to resurrection. Jehovah has also promised to sustain us during period of illness with his spirit, the bible and the brotherhood (Prov 18:14). DEMONSTRATION: Brother faces life threatening situation helped by another brother to strengthen. Maintaining our faith to the end will result in the preserving of our eternal lives; be resolved to run the race to the very end.
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Post by Admin on Dec 22, 2016 12:09:51 GMT -5
3:40 Reap the Rewards of Genuine Faith "Without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him." - Heb 11:6INTRODUCTION Jehovah is deeply appreciates for the things do for him and becomes "the rewarder" of those one. Earnestly seeking God means to worship God with such intensity and concentrated effort that we are moved to worship Jehovah with love and zeal. We would all like to have faith like Abraham who had sound reasons to trust in Jehovah implicitly and was convinced in Jehovah's ability to fulfill his promises. # How do we overcome obstacles to our spiritual progress?
# How can we sow with a view to the spirit?
# What rewards await those who have genuine faith?# How do we overcome obstacles to our spiritual progress?We can overcome obstacles by cultivating faith. Jesus stresssed the great potential even a little faith can have to grow and overcome mountain like problems or obstacles that could impede our spiritual progress (see Mat 17:20 - mustard grain). Build and strenthen our faith through : - study diligently To build and maintain strong faith we must be "industreous" in using our study tools ( Rom 12:11). - regular participation in the ministry Sharing the good news strengthens our faith [shared experiences: public & informal witnessing] - taking note of bible prophecies we have had refinements on many prophetic features, for example on Gog of Magog (w15 5/15 p. 29) - availing ourselve of the help of our elders who are "gifts in men" who help us to be uinfied, grow to maturity and build faith ( Eph 4:8, 13). If our loyalty to Jehovah is tested because a member of our family has been disfellowshipped, or we are instructed to move to another congregation we should be obedient to the decisions of the elders. # How can we sow with a view to the spirit (Gal 6:7, 8)?To "sow with a view to the spirit" means to live in a way that we allow God's spirit to operate freely in us and participate in activities that promote the free flow of holy spirit. (Prov 28 :20) Experience of Adrien Perez former gang member who was impacted by Gal 6: 7 and cleaned up his life. Today he has enjoyed helping many of his family members to become witnesses and gained the respect of others " A faithful man will receive many blessing" What rewards await those who have genuine faith? Everlasting blessings under God's kingdom arrangement, living on an earth free from the crushing burden of Satan and the demons. Relatively soon after Armageddon Jehovah will lift us to a degree of good health. Earth's ecology will be returned to perfect balance; living and enjoying the work of our hands and the happiness of the "resurrection parties" and resurrection lists (Isaiah 65:21-23; Act). Meeting faithful bible characters. Eternal life, what surprises does God have in store for us after the thousand years; eternal life will mean active meaningful participation in joyful activities that will stagger our wildest imaginations. Jehovah deeply appreciates the fine words of his worshipers and will not forget the love we showed for his name. When we put faith genuine effort to increase our faith we can be confident this will unquestionably lead to everlasting blessings!
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Post by Admin on Jun 16, 2017 6:16:08 GMT -5
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