Well, welcome again everyone to our Christian life and ministry meeting this week. And if for those that are zooming in on Zoom, we uh welcome you as well. So, what will we look at in our program tonight? Well, there's a few things when we think about our treasures from God's word talk. We could ask the question, why should we not be fooled by the lamp of the wicked? So, we'll find out an answer to that. And when we think about Our treasures from God's word and our spiritual gems and our Bible reading this week, they're
all based or taken from Proverbs 13. Our spiritual gems has the question, what warnings does the verse Proverbs 13:24 contain about misguided love? So, we'll be able to see the answer to that in our living as Christians part of the meeting. will have the part the light of the righteous shines brightly. So look out for the answers to The question, why shouldn't we waste our time fantasizing about things of this world or regretting the choices we have made that allow us to serve Jehovah? And our local needs is a part that we can all have
a share in. Our local needs will be the review of our not ashamed of the good news circuit assembly that we had a few weeks ago. So we're looking forward to that. And then finally, our congregation Bible study. We'll be looking at chapter 26 in our Bearing thorough witness about God's kingdom publication. And tonight we're going to be looking at a few different areas violently tossed by the storm and all were brought safely to land. So let's look out for a few areas there. What lessons that we can learn about particularly brothers when it comes
to our public prayers and also too for all of us how Jehovah views all individuals and what it means for us when it comes to our witnessing work. So They're just a few of the uh highlights or the points that we'll look at in our meeting tonight. To start us off, our treasures from God's word has the the theme, do not be fooled by the lamp of the wicked. So let's invite brother Nicholson now to take us through this each day. is another step in our journey of life. It's like in many ways it could
be like stepping into the darkness. It isn't for us but for many it is. It's like which Way to go? How should I decide certain matters or what will guide us? So with that in mind, thinking of life as a journey and where we would look for guidance, let's read together one of the selected scriptures. So Proverbs 13 and verse 9. So 13:9 reads, "The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked will be extinguished." So talking about a lamp here, it's like that journey through life in the Darkness. We need
something to guide us. We need a light. So the question here is a choice. What what is the lamp or the guidance we're going to look to or rely upon in our life? Now we want our journey to be successful, don't we? says in the first part, the righteous in the life they'll burn uh the lamp will burn brightly. But notice though for the wicked it will be extinguished. So what does that mean? The lamp would be extinguished. Well, it will come to an End. And often in the Bible, isn't it? Life and light uh
are very much intertwined. So what a sad ending to not following or getting the right guidance. So it's a choice. We have to choose the lamp that is going to be our guide through this dark system. Now let's have a look at our picture and see what we can learn from the picture. So when you look at the uh picture top left first of all it seems bright and appealing. This is the world Its lamp if you like. You can ignore godly principles. You can ignore God. That's the Bible. That's oldfashioned. You can just do
what you like. It's all fun and games until someone loses an eye. No, it's that's what it seems like in the world, isn't it? That's how they portray it. And they don't put any light on the consequences. None at all. It's all just good. So with that in mind, let's have a look At verse 20 now and notice the counsel or the light that Jehovah gives us, the lamp that Jehovah provides in verse 20. The one walking with the wise, what will happen? They'll become wise. But the stupid, sorry, but the ones who has dealings
with the stupid will fare badly. Now just to be clear because it's important we understand when we talk About stupid. We're not talking about int intellectually deficient that they can't comprehend or understand things. No, the stupid here and in the Bible is referring to those that do ignore God's standards that think there are no consequences to ignoring God's standards. So that's who it's talking uh about here. So, we don't want to be fooled by the lamp of the wicked of what this world holds up. The price is Heavy. Now, if we look at the picture,
what is it? It's on you. I've just Yeah, I've got it the way around. I've confused myself. I went a little bit of dyslexia. So, on the left, we've just highlighted. On the right, God's word actually spotlights the consequences. There are sad consequences to ignoring Jehovah's standards and it puts it in the in the spotlight. What are they? What are some? There's a long list, but what are some of the things You would think are the consequences of ignoring Jehovah's standards? Well, some of them are self-esteem destroying our self-esteem, our health, relationships with others, loneliness,
guilt. And of course, if we keep on that path, what did it say in the verse 9? A lamp, a life would be extinguished. What a sad course to pursue, thinking there are no consequences from ignoring Jehovah's standards. And if we look at The the caption um underneath the first sentence underneath the picture, thanks for the picture, brothers. It says, "The life the lives of those who pursue worldly desires are rarely as glamorous as they may seem." It really is a great big con. It reflects Satan's personality. All those influences or Hollywood stars, sports stars,
you just see the glamorous bit. But if you follow someone or know of someone, you just need time. You see Later on in their life, what a train wreck their life really was. But at the time, it's all portrayed as fun and games until someone loses an eye. And that's really what their life is like. So, how can we make sure that we're in Jehovah's light? Let's look at the picture again. Sorry, brothers. If you could bring it back out now. Look at the bottom. It's much brighter. This is the light of God's word. This
is the outcome when we step out the door, as it Were, into the darkness with Jehovah's, him lighting our way and guiding us. But how how do we do this? And notice the caption, the second um sentence. But those who do the will of Jehovah enjoy a truly rewarding way of life. How does that happen? Well, let's now focus. Thanks for the picture, brothers. Let's focus on verse 25, the last verse of Proverbs 13. It says, "The righteous one eats and satisfies his appetite. But the stomach of the wicked Is empty." What are we talking
about here? Food, literal food. Now, we're not talking about food. The context is helping us see. We're talking about Jehovah's guidance. Being satisfied with good guidance spiritually, emotionally that leads to life. a better life now and in the future. So, how do we do that? How do we satisfy ourselves? Have a full stomach as it were spiritually? Well, of course, it's taking in Jehovah's thinking. We don't read God's Word because Jehovah's organization says you should read God's word daily. We personally read it because we love God and we want his thinking, his lamp, his light
in our lives. We want him to be involved in our life so that as we journey through life, we're staying on that narrow road to eternal life. Now, when we take in Jehovah's thinking, meditate upon it, it has a profound effect on us. See, Jehovah knows what's good for us in all areas of our life. Whether it's in the family, whether it's what career to choose, being involved in kingdom activities or areas where we need to correct. When we let Jehovah's thinking influence our hearts, we're constantly changing, aren't we? Growing, maturing because of the light
of God's word, saying, "Oh, no. Don't do it that way. Do it this way. Don't get angry in this situation. Be peaceable." Just as an example. So when we let God's word light Our road, we personally benefit because we're close to Jehovah. We're walking with Jehovah. So we want to take time to read God's word each day. Don't and if we're not, don't stress, oh, I'm not. Just start with something small, whether the text, uh reading the the scripture, the comments, maybe the chapter, and then build upon that. But let Jehovah light your way so
that each step that you take is the best life that you could have. Now just to highlight again What a beautiful outcome this is. Come back to verse 9. You might have noticed this in your personal research in verse 9. Notice so the first part the light of the righteous shines brightly. So we'll we'll clearly see what's ahead. But did you note the footnote when it referring to shines brightly? What does it say there? It says rejoices. So yes, when we apply Jehovah's thinking, let him light the way for us in our Lives, we'll be
happy. We'll rejoice because we have the creator, the lifegiver guiding our steps in this darkened world. Thanks, brother Nicholson, for taking us through this week's treasures from God's word. Really showing us how we won't be fooled or shouldn't be fooled by the lamp of the wicked, the dangers that brings. Well, that brings us now to our spiritual gems. And we'll Invite Brother Cox to take us through this week's spiritual gems. Welcome brothers and sisters to this week's spiritual gems. We please have a volunteer to read Proverbs 13 and verse 24. Sister Gallow please. hates his
son, but the one who loves him disciplines him diligently. Thank you very much. And the question there, what warning does this verse give us contain about misguided love? Sister Simone, please. It mentions that those that hold back the rod of discipline are showing a misguided love, one that's driven often by pride and selfishness. And by failing to correct their children, the Bible says they're not exercising love, but rather hate because they're not taking action that will correct and save the child's life. Right. Thank you for your fine comment. Um Sister Ramano Please in in Proverbs
20-15 says that foolishness is bound up in the heart of a boy but the rod of discipline will remove it far from him. So the only guidance or the he have real properly directed love only by seeking the following God's spirit and this can be found in uh in the Bible itself or from the word of Jehovah that knowledge that has come from them. So a parent may have uh an affection to their children but it can be deteriorated by because of Sentimentality giving everything to their children. So they have to exercise the parental authority
to give them discipline or actual justice. Thank you for your fine comment. Okay, we can move on. What spiritual gems from this week's Bible reading would you like to highlight? Sister Jasmine, please. Proverbs 13:1 says, "A wise son accepts his father's discipline, but the scoffer does not listen to rebuke or as the Footnote says, correction." And according to that scripture, a wise person is someone who is teachable. But to be teachable, it's closely linked to the condition of our figurative heart, which is the person we are on. We are on the inside. And what can
help us to prepare our hearts for receiving counsel is humility. Because humble people can recognize the benefit of Jehovah's direction, but most importantly are able to willingly apply it and become more Wise, kind-hearted servants of God. Thank you, Jasmine. Sister Bizenelli, please. Pro proverb 14:12 says expectation postpone is making the heart thick as the Bible state but the situation will be res reverse in the new world at that time the thing desire will be a tree lie when it does come no more will heart be might heavy by suffering or by unrealized hope instead they
will be filled with contentment and joy because Of the many marvelous think that God will provide for the human family. Thank you, Sister Bizelli. What a beautiful time we look forward to. Sister Simone, please. Um verse 10 says that presumptuous leads only to strife, but wisdom belongs to those who seek advice. Um one reference noted that presumptuous persons um boldly take liberties without having authorization to do so. And it goes further to show how feelings such as Envy, ambition, and impatience lead to presumptuous acts. And I just found it interesting how feelings, even just like
impatience, they can embolden us to overstep and that leads to conflict and strife. So if we ever feel like those emotions are arising and getting the better of us, it shows wisdom on our part to just pause and seek advice through God's word or a mature friend. Thank you for sister there please. Proverbs 13:14 states the teaching of the wise one is a source of life turning on away from the snares of death. This verse show that because God law is the perfect, the teachings found in the Bible help improve the quality of our lives
and protect us from the situations that could be harmful. Thank you very much. What a fine comment. Brother Bick, please. Proverbs 13:17 says, "A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing." So we Think of the message of God's word, and there are many trying to give out that message, but not all are doing it properly as it says there mentions about a wicked messengers. Some are putting their own slant on things. But Jehovah's people in the next part of that verse that says, "A faithful envoy brings healing." So, we're endeavoring to
bring the message of God's word, the good news, in a very accurate way to help people to heal them. Not only heals People that follow it, but it heals us as well as the messengers. So, we can be a messenger of the good news and do good for many. Thank you for your fine comment, brother Zad, please. Um, Proverbs 13:7 just it reads, "There is one who pretends to be rich yet has nothing. There is another who pretends to be poor yet has great wealth." But just really when I was thinking about the scripture, I
just thought of trees. There could be a tree that could Be really big and lush and very grand um but it has really um shallow roots. Something that's not really deep rooted yet. um that can get knocked down in a storm very easily. But there might be a tree that um is very humble. It could be small, but the roots could be so deeply entrenched into the ground that it will it's immovable. So that can really this scripture is just a good reminder that um real value isn't about what people see on the outside. It's
actually what's Deep down, what's deep rooted. And um our spiritual roots need to be really deep. So we have to maybe focus on what our motive is when reaching out to do things and how we serve Jehovah. Thank you brother Zia for a moving comment. Brother Simone please. Last one. Verse 22 says the good person leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren. While that's true in a material sense it is good to uh to be able to lay up and leave something for our children and Even the next generation if at all possible. uh in a
material sense that might be a good thing as far as the world's concerned but in a spiritual sense how much more important it is that we uh leave a good uh legacy for our children a good inheritance that they have the truth that they serve Jehovah that brings joy to us it brings joy to them and it can even bring joy to their children so what a good thing it is for us to contemplate the importance of Laying up spiritual things and imparting them to the next generations thank you very much brother Saman Thank you
brothers and sisters for your fine comments. I apologize if I missed any hands. We'll hand back now to the chairman. Thanks, brother Cox, for taking us through gems this week and thank you too as an audience for your fine comments as well. Well, that finishes this section. No, it doesn't. Let's uh have the Bible reading Now. And the Bible reading is taken from Proverbs 13:1 through to 17. Let's invite Brother Gallow to read that for us. A wise son accepts his father's discipline. But the scoffer does not listen to a rebuke. From the futage of
his speech, a man will eat what is good, but the very desire of the treacherous is for violence. The one guarding his mouth protects his life, but the one opening his lips wide will come to ruin. The Lazy person has his cravings, yet he has nothing. But the diligent one will be fully satisfied. The righteous one hates lies. But the actions of the wicked bring shame and disgrace. Righteousness protects the one whose way is innocent. But wickedness brings down the sinner. There is one who pretends to be rich yet has nothing. There is another who
pretends to be poor yet he has great Wealth. Riches are the ransom for a man's life. But the poor are not even threatened. The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked will be extinguished. Presumptuousness leads only to strife, but wisdom belongs to those who seek advice. Wealth quickly gained will dwindle, but the wealth of the one who gathers a little by little will Increase. Expectation postponed makes the heart sick. But a desire realized is a tree of life. Whoever despises instruction will pay the penalty, but the one who respects the
commandment will be rewarded. The teaching of the wise one is a source of life. To turn one away from the snares of death. Keen insight wins favor, but the way of the treacherous is harsh. The shrewd person acts with knowledge, but the fool Exposes his own foolishness. A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing. Thanks, brother Jesse, for your fine reading tonight. We really enjoyed that. There was a couple of things there that really thought stood out well was nice and clear the way that you spoke, but also too, you read
at a nice uh pace as well. Tonight, you were looking at modulation, and there's a couple of Points in modulation that it makes so we can be more effective um readers. One of those things is to mentions in the point he says to vary your volume. And I notice you did this. It was quite subtle, but you did this when you were reading the proverbs and you would read the first half and then the second half of the each verse you would lower your volume a bit. Um, and that way we use modulation um, in
that way. And also too, your pitch was Lowered as well. There is a couple of other areas though that we could uh all of us when it comes to our reading using modulation can um maybe improve in. But one of those is varying our pace. Um makes a point it says to speak more rapidly to convey excitement and to speak more slowly when stating important points. So maybe that's something that next time um you could uh just try to incorporate again. And again, it depends on your reading um The reading that's assigned to you. But
we thank you, brother Gallow, for your reading tonight, and we look forward um to your next assignment. Okay. Well, that finishes that part of the meeting. So, let's now let's move into the apply yourself to the field ministry um section of our meeting. So, we have uh two demonstrations tonight. Our first one is starting a conversation. It's in the house to house and the setting is after Starting with a timely topic share something from the Bible that seems more relevant to the person and handling this for us tonight is sister Bethia Kim and sister Vanessa
Simone is a householder. Hello. I hope you had a good afternoon. My name is Bethia and I've just been going around this neighborhood sharing a positive message. Oh, sure. I'd like to hear some good news. That's great. Well, actually, we've been asking this topic on how do you view the future? Would you Say that our world would stay the same, get worse, or get better? Um, I think it's going to get better. Oh, that's great that you feel that way. May I ask you why? Yeah. Well, my wedding is actually coming up. I'm so excited
to start my life with him. We've been together so long with childhood friends. Wow. Congratulations. Yeah. Thanks. But actually, it's been kind of hard just preparing for our wedding. It's like whenever we try to talk um to each other About plans, we always just get into some sort of argument. We can just never seem to agree on this sort of stuff. Oh, that must have been really challenging for you. It can be really distressing, especially when we have an important event. If you don't mind, could I share this video with you? It's about for a
happy marriage work as a team. Yeah, sure. So, how was it? M yeah, I get it. I think we need to talk out our problems a Bit more. I should probably consider what he prefers and his opinions and maybe I just need to be a little bit more understanding. Ah, that's great. Well, actually, I'd like to point out this specific verse from this video. It's in Matthew 19:6. It really highlights on the matter of how our creator wants the kind of marriage for his people. Would you uh if you don't mind, could you read this
scripture for me? Yeah, sure. They are no longer one flesh. Oh, sorry. They are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has yolked together, let no man put apart. Thank you for the reading. Well, in this verse, it really highlights on how our God who instituted the marriage relationship really desires us to treat our marriage as sacred. And as shownen from the verse shows how husbands and wives wouldn't want to be yolked together in a cold or loveless coexistence. Rather, they would want to Enjoy a contented marriage which they both would thrive with
the creator's practical advice found in the Bible. They can be happily yolked together. Wow. I didn't realize how important marriages were to God and how much he cares about it being a happy marriage. Oh, well, I'm glad you feel that way. Um, uh, maybe next week around this time, would you mind if I come visit again to share more practical advices that's shown from the Bible about Marriages? Yeah, sure. That sounds great. Thanks sister Bethia and Sister Vanessa as well. We uh really enjoyed that presentation and it flowed along nicely to what the uh the
way that you were talking to the person has highlighted there that you were gone there to talk about how do we view the future and then what happened somebody's getting married so you adapted to the situation and when we think about our love people make Disciples brochure under that section naturalness we have being adaptable I mean so you could have carried on with that theme the future because her marriage is in the future. But no, I really like the way that you then shared something that was relevant to um Vanessa's situation and and as well
shared a video and a scripture um as well. And that's what it highlights in our publication. It says, "Be willing to share something that is relevant, Even if that means discussing a different Bible truth than the one that you had on your mind." And that's exactly what you did. You did that nicely and we look forward to your next assignment as well. So, thanks sister Bethia for that. Well, now we have another starting a conversation and this is in informal witnessing and handling this is sister Barlow and Sister Katr and the setting is invite the
person to a meeting. Hi. Hello. Um the center's pretty busy today. I noticed that too. Are you here doing some shopping? I am, but I'm just taking a bit of a break now away from the crowds and then I'm going to have lunch with a friend of mine. Oh, okay. I know what you mean. It feels like we're bursting out west. Um, are you local to Black Town at all? Yes, I I've lived in the area for 30 something years. Oh, that's that's good. You would have seen A lot of change then. H I have
noticed the change um especially after co a lot of families are struggling the price of uh food and petrol and things like that uh getting higher and higher and um families are finding it hard and struggling. I know what you mean. Um how are you doing? Well, I'm okay. Thanks for asking. Um, I am fortunate though because I own my own house and I have work for now, But because I live alone, sometimes I think, oh, what what if I get sick and I can't work? Yeah. It seems like you're really concerned about or anxious
about the future. Is that right? I think we all are, aren't you? I am. And I do feel that way especially when um our family has a sudden drain on our health or on our finances. It can be really difficult for us to recover. Um but for me, you know, my trust in God is what helps me get through it. Oh, That's interesting. But how can you trust in someone that you don't really know and you don't know what they're going to do for you? Well, that's a really good question. Um, but did you know
that did you know that God has a satisfying and secure future for the or planned for the earth? Um, it's here in Revelation 21 and verse 3 and 4. And it says, "And God himself will be with Them, and he will wipe out every tear from their eyes. The former things have passed away." H, that sounds good. But how do we know that that'll happen? Yeah. Well, um to explain, if we think of your friend, for example, that you're meeting for lunch today, you would have spent a lot of time getting to know each other
and building trust. You would have learned that your friend um is caring, kind, reliable, and at times can be a rock for you. Well, that's true with my Friend. Well, it's the same with God. We can spend our time getting to know him and come to trust him just as we do a close friend. Okay, I can see how that works. But I don't know. I've never thought of being God's friend. Well, many I've met have said the same thing. But there is one way you can get to know God better, and that's by going
to a kingdom hall. Um, for in anyone who's welcome is able to come along. There are no collections and most of Most important all the talks and discussions are based on the Bible. Yeah. Can I show you a video of what to expect? Sure. So, what did you think? Well, it actually was quite interesting, but I've actually lost track of time and I really need to go and meet my friend for lunch. Sorry. No, that's okay. Um, here's my card anyway. Um, it's got my details on the back and if you want to know more,
you can give me a call or SMS Anytime. Okay. Thanks. Thanks, Sister Renee and Sister Loveir for taking us through that demonstration as well. Um when we think about uh informal witnessing um you did that quite quite well um sister Renee the way that you presented that um a couple of areas when we think about again our love people make disciples brochure under naturalness be observant look see what the person's doing you did that I like the questions too that you Asked showed a personal interest you know how long have you been living in the
area things like that you would have seen a lot of changes so you had a good conversation there going. And then also too, the simple way that you introduced the Bible truth um with that question, did you know that? And then also too, the final part of your discussion there, you invited love to the uh meeting, but you also too showed the video of what happens at the Kingdom Hall. So that way if she did take you up, then at least that she would know what was going on. So it's always good for us to
have those tools uh with us and ready to use. So we thank you sister Barlow for your assignment tonight. Well that brings us now to our talk and our talk is based on the love people make disciples brochure truths we love to teach which is.9 children who respect and obey their parents will succeed. So let's invite uh brother Hamilton now to the platform and he'll take us through this. Is it easy to be obedient to our parents? Not always, is it? we want to be. But sometimes it's very hard since we might feel that what
we're being asked to do is boring or annoying or it's stopping us from doing what we want to be doing. But should we still be obedient to our parents? Well, what does Jehovah want us to do? Well, let's look at Ephesians chapter 6 and we'll read verses 1 through to 3. Ephesians chapter 6 1 through3 it says there children be obedient to your parents in union with the Lord for this is righteous. Honor your father and your mother is the first command with a promise that it may go well with you and you may remain
a long time on the earth. Well, that's quite clear, isn't It? And did you notice the reason why we should be obedient? In verse three, it said that it may go well with you and you may remain a long time on the earth. Well, that's a pretty good reason, isn't it? We want things to go well for us. And remaining on the earth a long a long time sounds good, too, doesn't it? Now, I've got a question for you. Can you be obedient to your parents without respecting them? Yes, you can. Do you remember the
Theme of this talk? Children who respect and obey their parents will succeed. It's not one or the other. Respect or obey. It's both. Well, what is respect and how do we show it to our parents? Well, I'm glad you asked. Respect is how you treat someone, what you say to them, and how you say it. Respect is a synonym or word similar to honor. So why should we respect our parents? Well, surely Jehovah has a good reason for giving it this direction. Well, there is a common saying in the Afric African country of Ghana and
it goes like this. An adult was once a child, but a child has never been an adult. So, what that means is that an adult adult, our parents know what is best for us. Staying up until midnight will cause you to be tired the next day at school. Doing somersaults and Cartwheels straight after dinner will make you feel sick. Learning about Jehovah will help you to make good decisions in the future. Treating someone with respect can sometimes be difficult just like being obedient. But remember what the scripture said, if we are obedient and show honor,
things will go well for us and we will remain a long time on the earth. And we need to remember that our parents love us. They want us to Succeed. So remember the part in the scripture in verse three where it talks about remaining a long time on the earth. Potentially a long time is forever. And the things that go well with us is perfect health, perfect mind, perfect relationship with our human parents, but most importantly with our heavenly parent Jehovah. So let us do our best to be obedient and respectful to our parents So
that we might succeed forever. There you are. Thanks, brother Hamilton, for taking us through that talk. Um, I really there was a couple of good points there, but when we think about what you were looking at was up building a positive. So, in our teaching brochure, just makes a couple of points for us to keep in mind to leg limit negative material. Um, which you did you did touch on, you Know, things that happen if we're disobedient, but that wasn't the overall theme of your discussion tonight, but really uh to focus on the positives. So,
you mentioned things like uh being obedient, we can live forever, we have that hope and everything like that, but also too, you drew from the scriptures. So you made good use of those couple of scriptures. There was only a couple of scriptures there um to use. Um and it makes the point here and this is Particularly for us uh for all of us whether we're giving a talk, whether we're maybe encouraging someone or we're uh using the Bible in the ministry. It says draw attention to what Jehovah has done is doing and will do for
humankind. And by doing this we impart hope and courage to our listeners. So really tonight, the focus of your your talk and the scriptures that you use really convey that nicely. So thanks, brother Roland. We look forward to your next Assignment as well. Well, that finishes this part of the meeting. We uh to move into the living as Christians, the light of the righteous shines brightly. Let's invite brother Simone now to take us through this discussion. It's a fascinating scripture, isn't it? Proverbs 13 and verse 9. You could almost think of entering a dark room
with two sources of light. One that's connected to an endless source of power Or a match which you can light. Yes, it shines. It's bright. But we know what the future of that match is going to be, don't we? It's short-lived. Might shine brightly for a little while, but it will be extinguished. In contrast, Jehovah's light is like that endless source of power that lightens up our life and brightens our future. So God's word, not only does it have that hope, it also contains matchless wisdom and knowledge. It leads to lasting success and happiness. And
isn't it beautifully put in the first paragraph of our source material? That is something the world just cannot offer. Now they're not just words. They're not theory. These things have been We'd like to throw to you the audience now. How does Sister Gay and China's experience highlight the superiority of the light of the righteousness of the righteous rather in comparison to the lamp of the wicked? We'll have sister Jasmine Cox. Well, the sister felt such an intense amount of loneliness and emptiness with the life she had, and she longed for purpose. She couldn't understand why
there was beauty in creation. Yet, there was suffering and felt like a creation without a creator. But as she studied the Bible, she saw that the world doesn't know how to love and it can't give you what it does not have. So, weighing that type of love with Jehovah's made it clear in her mind that glory for yourself only results in emptiness. But giving glory to God and receiving his love as a result leads to much light and rejoicing. Thanks sister Jasmine. Sorry sister Abelo was that your point was it? Yeah I think it was
brother an uh as the sister's experience shows the world may offer a lamp. So we may think oh it can provide a light so it so that I can find the successful way in my Life. But the world's lamp is the lamp of the wicked and the stupid and it does not shed any light at all and we will lose our way. Excellent. Thanks, brother Chase. Okay, appreciate your comments there, brothers and sisters. So, moving on to that final paragraph there. Um, if what's the thought behind Philippians 3 and verse 8? What does it mention
that we have? Thanks. Brother Wilson, We have the excelling knowledge of Jesus Christ and that uh involves quite a lot uh which leads eventually to everlasting life in beautiful conditions right here on earth. Yes. So what habit wouldn't we ever want to form? Brother Katr really dreaming that the world has something of great value to offer that uh we could invest in it and get a solid return. But uh obviously Paul experienced both ends of that. He uh he Rose to fairly significant heights in the secular system. But he's saying that he treated it all
as of little value compared with the thing of great value was the knowledge of Christ and being able to count himself amongst Christ followers. Thanks. Excellent point. So 1 John 2 reminds us that this world is passing away. And so just like that match, it's life is very short-lived. It's going to be extinguished. So beautiful material Here. But how can we get leverage off that? Well, there's a little box there. Family worship idea and even uh your own personal worship idea. What can we do? What's the suggestion there in that little box? Thanks, Sister Higer.
to watch to watch and also review at least two videos uh from the series truth transforms lives and we can consider there the value of the truth. Thank you very much sister Hugo. Thank you very much uh one and all for your Comments as well. We'll hand back to our chair. Thanks, brother Simone, for taking us through that um part and thanks to for those that are able to have a share. Well, was only a few weeks ago we had our not ashamed of the good news circuit assembly. So, our local needs tonight will be
a review of this. So, let's invite brother Arius to take us through our review. So this is a part I really enjoy because I get to ask the questions and you get to tell me the answers. So we had six questions uh asked in our program. So if you have your program there you might want to take that one out. And if we recall, we had uh our first question which was taken from Romans 1:16 and 11:13. Why are we not ashamed of the good news? So friends, what notes did you take from that part,
brother Nabil, please? Well, the good news is coming From the highest source from Jehovah himself. And Jehovah wants everyone to receive life and uh be saved. So it means salvation for those who accept it. That's why we value the good news. Yeah. Very good. Excellent. Yeah. That was well summarized, wasn't it? So let's look at our second question which was involved Matthew chapter 10:32 and Romans 10:9. How do we take a stand for the good news? How do we take a stand for our Good news? Um, brother Mlan, please. Well, this is the way that
we share the good news with others. Um, and really declare our support for Jehovah, his son, Jesus, and for Jehovah's kingdom. Very good. What else did we take out of from that talk? Thank you, brother Simone, please. Well, there are quite a number of um real life examples that were there and Uh we also had a demonstration of our sister who perhaps didn't perform as well as she would have liked at work and maybe buckled a little under the pressure, but then she talked about it with her spouse and and then she really came up
with a plan of action and and that was a good reminder for all of us to be able to take that stand for the good news to be prepared, not allow things to take us by surprise. Jehovah of course understands that we are Limited but wherever possible let's um make sure that we're well prepared for times where our faith can be challenged. Yeah. Very good. Our sister there at the back please. Thank you. And also we car share the good news. I boldly declare our support for Jehovah. Very good. Thank you sister Leo. Anything else
did we take out from that part? So remember the the two examples they spoke about. Who who were these two Examples they spoke about? It was the morning. It wasn't the afternoon session. That's a little bit harder. Brother Simony, please. The two that I picked up on were the Bible students that face pressure and how we can train them and also our children who are our Bible students as parents and how we can help them to anticipate situations that may arise at school or other places. Yeah, very good. Also spoke about the three Hebrews. Remember
they spoke about the three Hebrews. What challenge did they face and how were they obedient? Brother Katr please. Well, they were in a foreign land and were surrounded by uh others that had no understanding of their faith. And yet uh they very boldly and without any shame stood up for what they knew was right. And uh really we see that Jehovah didn't let them down in that circumstance. Um and uh they weren't afraid of what the Consequences of speaking up would be. Yeah. Very good. Excellent. Brother Neville, the part mentioned the Apostle Peter who gave
way to fear and he was nearly stumbled but later he Jesus helped him to correct his way and be courageous and he refused to stop preaching when he was asked to do. Yeah. Excellent. So let's look at our third question and uh this was taken uh based on 2 Timothy chapter 2 and verse1 15. What makes us effective Workers in the ministry? Our sister here at the front please. Second Timothy 2:15 reminds us that we are motivated by love and it's because of this love we're able to share the good news in a natural way
that appeals to our listeners. Yeah, very good. Excellent. See, um, see our sister at the back, please. Thank you, brother Steven. I love the point that was given By the speaker. Um, basically, if we love something so much, we will not stop talking about it. So, um, if love is the main reason, then, um, we will also not stop talking about the good news. Very good. Remember we were encouraged to look at u two chapters in the love people brochure. What lessons did we take out from those? Do you recall? So the first one spoke
about uh imitate Jesus section one topic three imitate Jesus. What was the other one? Brother Bonick. Uh the other one I noted was uh to use the appendix in the love people so that we may find a point and say to a person did you know that and mention something we've learned from there. Yeah. Very good. Excellent. So our next question during the convention was uh with regards to uh oneiferous. So, how can we imitate the example of oneiferous taken out of 2 Timothy 1:7 and 8? Our young Brother at the back, please. When faced
with persecution, we rely on God's power, show love, and work hard to remain sound of mind. Very good. Excellent, Sister Cox. No, that's it. That's it. Okay. But there was more. What else did our brother highlight? How did oneiferous uh look diligently for Paul? Remember, it wouldn't have been easy because what was happening during that time in Rome, brother Bick. Well, for starters, persu Christians were being persecuted. So, uh wasn't as easy to find people as it is today. uh many cities in ancient times particularly didn't have streets and street numbers like we have today.
There was no street directory, no internet. So you can imagine all the work uh Anisserus would have put put there in finding Paul and having to tell people As well that he was a Christian and that's why he was looking for his brother Paul. Yeah, it would have been a difficult thing thing, wouldn't it? Brother Catrippy. Yeah, he he did this um showing discretion of course and also soundness of mind in his activities and uh he was able to uh refresh Paul spoke about the refreshment that he was able to give and uh the words
from Jeremiah 17:7 and 8 blessed is the man who puts His trust in Jehovah. So he was a very good example for us in putting his trust in Jehovah even in what might seem like a really difficult circumstance. Yeah. Very good. Excellent. Our sister please. And also in Romans 12:3 he said advice keep in his right mind instead of panicking keep sounds of mind. Don't compromise our faith and let let's let let's continue trust rely to Jehovah. Yes. Excellent. Very good. Now, it was Interesting because during that part, the the brother mentioned a phrase. He
he mentioned it twice for us to actually take away. Can anybody remember what that phrase was? It's really great cuz he mentioned it twice. Brother could please. I think this is the one. Uh show we have Jehovah's power. So in the way that would have been one of them. Yeah. But there was another one. He mentioned it twice. I'll get you started with it. The Person who knows God's best. Remember person who knows God best. I'll finish it off. Oh, thank you. Brother Nicholson. You're under test. Will trust him best when in distress. Very close.
It was close. But I wrote it down cuz he said it twice cuz it took me two days to get it down. Yeah. So, uh, notice its application when we think about putting our trust in in Jehovah God. U, so if we recall the answer, remember what the Answer was to that question? What was that answer to the question? How can we imitate the example of oneiferous? I'll help you out with that one. It said, "When faced with persecution, we show love. Rely on God's power to remain in sound of mind." Our next question was,
uh, how do we show that we are not ashamed to stand up for our God? How do we show that we're not ashamed? Our sister there. Thank you, brother Steve. Sister Hamilton. Well, our words and actions show that we support Jehovah's moral standards, his kingdom, and his representatives. And that shows to that we are not ashamed to stand up for Jehovah. Very good. Excellent, Sister Cox. And the brother brought out that with those steps, we can be, as First Peter 3:15 reminds us, always ready to make a defense before everyone who demands of Us a
reason for the hope that we have. Very good. How did he mention we could be like acacia ants? Remember because he spoke about the acacia ants? Does anybody remember the acacia ants? Thank you, brother Simone. I remember he said we were important and significant, but I also remember that he mentioned that the ants, they protected their colony. And that's so important when it comes to Jehovah's morals, his Standards, who we associate with. These are things we want to secure basically and keep them very strong in our minds and hearts. Yeah. Very good. Excellent. And one
of the things he highlighted was that perhaps the world today sees us like those ants. Remember now how could we apply some of the counsel he gave about family worship? He spoke about something interesting and helping our children. You Recall he mentioned that um open and safe family worship to help children feel free to ask and speak. So your acacia tree is their acacia tree and your god is their god. That's how he summarized his uh part during that meeting. Then we went to uh the final question. Um how do we boast in Jehovah? Do
you recall how do we boast in Jehovah? There were four points, four ways in which we could boast in Jehovah God. He spoke about realities. What were Those four realities? Maybe one at a time. Let's see. Sister Leon. Oh, thank you. that we praise Jehovah because he support us and guide us. Very good. So Jehovah God is real and he mentioned John 28 7:28. Sister Kim, sorry sister Lim, back this way. Dental, did you have your hand up? Yeah. Um I'm just talking about Psalm 34. Uh was written by David During one of the most
difficult times of his life. So even the midst of his suffering, David experienced the Jehovah's helping hand. So he passionately encouraged others as we see the verse two and three I will boast in Jehovah the and magnify Jehovah along with me. So let us exert his name. So through the preaching work we praise Jehovah and share the good news of the kingdom. Very good. So remember you said that Jehovah God is real. There was Another thing that was real realities. What was the other reality? The second reality he spoke about. Who remembers the second reality?
Brother Katr please that God's kingdom is real and uh he quoted from um Matthew 6 Lord's prayer where Jesus instructed us to pray for it. So that's how real it is. Yeah. Very good. What was the third reality? What was the third reality? I'll give you a clue. They have wings. It's not birds. See, uh, Sister Hila, the angels. Yeah. Very good. And, uh, remember that the angels had two types of jobs. Remember what two jobs they actually did? What were the two jobs they they would do, especially in our times? What were the two
jobs they would do? protecting and supporting the witnessing work that would take place. Our sister please. And also they guide us to others. Very good. Excellent. And what was the fourth reality? What was the fourth reality? What was the fourth reality? Our sister at the back, please. Thank you. Everlasting life is real. Very good. And what did he highlight with regards to that that reality? Everlasting life. You recall what he highlighted. Remember he spoke with regards to uh uh when he came to the li The he spoke with regards to Psalms 34:1-4 whilst hiding from
soul in the land of the Philistine in Gad the city of Goliath his praise went to Jehovah as his helper and if we recall when Jesus was on earth he spoke about Matthew 6:33 where he kept seeking first the kingdom of and Jehovah will look after our needs and how Jehovah was able to rescue um a warrior because remember David was a warrior yet he did not rely on his own strength and power but relied on that of Jehovah God and it was interesting that in one of the parts friends uh remember that when he
when he came to how we can stand make a stand for the for the good news um one of the great things that could take place in the heavens is that our name might come up. Remember how that was highlighted? That our name might come up in conversation between Jesus and Jehovah. Wouldn't it be good if our name came up as saying they're good ones? They're supporting the work we're doing in the preaching of the good news. So, let's consider now three final questions, brothers, as we bring together our convention. Which point from the convention
have you draw helped you to draw closer to Jehovah? Sister Anne, one point from the assembly that drew me closer to Jehovah was from Jeremiah 17:7 to8. It compares the one who trust in Jehovah to a tree planted By water. The image helped me see that even during successful stressful times or dry seasons in life, I can stay strong if I remain close to Jehovah. He motivated me to deepen my roots in him through regular prayer, Bible reading and meditation. Realizing that Jehovah continues to support and strengthen me even when I feel weak truly makes
me feel closer to him. Thank you very much, brothers. We've run out of time, so perhaps if you haven't had an Opportunity to answer tonight, family worship, we can probably review the assembly and compare notes. We invite the chairman back to the platform. Thanks, brother Arius, for taking us through the review this week. Well, that brings us now to our congregation Bible study. So let's invite brother Katrini now to take us through uh chapter 26 paragraph 9 through to 17. Well due to time constraints we Won't read the paragraphs. So that'll put a little more
pressure on you but hopefully we can get to the points. So, we're looking at the section there starting in paragraph 9, violently tossed by the storm. And this account from Acts 27, uh, running through most of that chapter from verse 7 onwards. Uh, looking at paragraphs 9 and 10, what difficulties arose in the vicinity of Cree? Thanks, Sister Lim. As a ship near Creek, strong northwest Winds made it difficult to stay on course, um pushing the the ship southward and away from the mainland shore currents. And although the southern side offered some shelter, sailing was
still difficult and they also had winter approaching um which made navigation more dangerous. So even though they found temporary anchorage at Fair Havens, they were delayed there for a considerable time um which only added to their concerns. Yes. So, would you like to have been on that ship? Well, we had a look at the picture of it last week. It uh wasn't that big, was it? So, easily tossed about. Um, anything else there that uh Thanks, brother Harp. Well, because of the wind, it was very hard to control the ship and beside the winter was
coming very soon. That's another challenge they had to face. Yeah. So quite uh an arduous situation To be in and you can imagine everybody's getting very very tense with this uh uh weather closing in. So having a look at paragraph 11, Paul gave his shipmates what advice yet what decision was made. So what was the advice that Paul gave? Thanks U brother Abalera. Due to Paul uh previous uh experience in traveling in Mediterranean, he recommended that the ship not to sail on. If it did, there would be a damage and great loss, maybe even loss
of life, But instead the pilot and the ship owner wanted to keep going. Yes. Okay. Now, why do you think they want to keep going? What what did they have in mind perhaps? Um, thanks sister. Um, yeah, Mary car. Yeah. So, they prioritize finding a more uh secure and comfortable harbor such as Phoenix, which they believe would be a better place to spend winter. So, the majority Supported this plan. So, when a gentle southern breeze uh seemed to signal safer sailing conditions, they took it as a opportunity to set sail. Yeah. Uh what what did
they have on board just by the way that might have made this more of an imperative? Thanks, brother Simone. We remember from last week's study, these were usually merchant ships. These weren't cruise ships. So they had important cargo on board. One Of the things that's mentioned later is is abundant supplies of wheat. Yeah. So you don't get paid if you don't deliver. So no doubt that was driving their decision. Um, paragraph 12. After leaving CIT, the ship faced what dangers and how did the uh crew attempt to stave off disaster? So what what dangers did
they face? Thanks um, brother Mlan. Yeah, we see there was a violent wind Came that uh from the northeast. Um and it makes the point that the ship was in uh risk of being driven or danger um down to the coast of Africa. So we can see there must have been really severe winds that they were going through. Yeah. And what did the crew uh do in an attempt to stave off disaster? Thanks, brother Doden. Graph mentioned a few things that they they did to try to make the the boat a bit more secure. The
first one was to Pull in the small boat that the ship was towing so that uh the ste ship probably a bit more stable but they had difficulties doing so. Yeah. Okay. Thanks, brother Davis. And then they tried to put uh under ropes and that underneath to uh support the ship um to to hold the planks together because of the rough weather. Yeah. Okay. Thanks, Sister McCullik. And it says they lowered the its gear, The main sail or rigging, and they strained to keep the ship headed in the wind to where to to weather the
storm. Yeah. Okay. Thanks, Sister Hager. But all these efforts didn't work because still the ship continued to be violently tossed by the storm. Yeah. Very good. So you can imagine these uh individuals on this ship, their feeling was what was about to happen to this this ship. If you've got to, you know, put chains around it to hold it Together, what was the likely outcome in their minds? Thanks, brother Simone. They would have just been terrified there. There was obviously it it seemed like no hope of life whatsoever. But they were just at the mercy
of a very violent storm and an open sea and heading straight toward a coast where they would have certainly faced death. Yeah. So would have been terrifying position to be in. And There's our brother the Apostle Paul right in the the middle of all of this. So let's have a look at 13 and um with the question, what must life have been like aboard Paul's ship during the storm? Let's get um brother Juan on Zoom, please. During the storm, everyone must have been scared to death. But Paul and his companions were calm and sure that
they will survive because Jesus and then an Angel had assured Paul that he will bear witness in Rome as mentioned in Acts chapter 23 verse 11. Very good. Thanks uh brother one brother Bneck please. It would have been like a living nightmare being on the ship for this two weeks, moving around everywhere. The ship was um you just have to hang on. You can't eat properly. It's just cold, rain, seasickness, everyone trying to huddle Together to try to stay safe. And we're not talking about half a dozen people. We're talking about 276 people. So, very
difficult situation for at least two weeks. Yeah. Very good. And uh thanks, brother Davis. And the weather was so bad that there was no sunlight and they couldn't see the stars. So the pilot of the ship had no way of knowing where he was. Yeah. Very good. By contrast though, how was Paul and his Companions and why? Thanks, brother Wilson. They uh they may have had a bit of seasickness, but they were pretty chilled otherwise because uh Jehovah had told uh or Jesus had told um Paul and then it was confirmed by an angel that
they would go to Rome and talk with Caesar. So they knew that they would survive. Yeah. Very good. And brother Aras. So you could imagine Paul and his Companion as they looked around the boat and saw all these people in panic uh people screaming for help, throwing maybe even trying to praise or look for guidance in their own their own God. Yet Paul and his companion were calm because they knew that Jehovah would get them to the destination they were traveling. Yeah. It's very interesting, isn't it? U because what does it speak about really? um
from Paul and his companion uh Companions position and their relationship with Jehovah. What do we learn from this? Thanks, brother Mlan. Yeah, it really shows us the confidence and faith that uh Paul and those that were with him had in Jehovah because uh Jesus had said to him what would happen that he's going to end up in um where was he going again? Where wherever he was going appealing to Caesar, Rome, I suppose. Um so Paul knew that it didn't Matter what situation arose, what would come along, this is what was going to happen. This
is where they were going to end up and end up there alive. So really their faith was really strong in what uh had been said. Yeah. Very good. So let's have a look at uh 14 and 15. And it's the a question. In speaking to his shipmates, why did Paul mention uh his earlier warning? Thanks, Sister Abolera. He repeated his earlier warning, but not In a way that sounded like he was blaming anyone. Instead, he wanted to offer comfort and take courage. Show that he was saying could be trusted about Jehovah said to him at
Acts 27:21-22, for not one of you will be lost. Yeah, very good. Very powerful message, wasn't it? Thanks, brother Hab. Brother Hab. Yeah, the other brother Hab. Well, as if he's uh assuring them again that uh there is a warm message, There is a hope for them. None of them will be perished. And uh he assured them that God is concerned and he received an assurance. And no doubt that's warmed their hearts and warmed the hearts of Paul and his companion. Yeah. Very good. If you were on that ship and you heard those words from
Paul, how would you feel? Cuz you you're feeling pretty hopeless, right? You're seeing death, looking it squarely in the face. And Paul now says This, what effect does that have on you? Thanks, brother Simone. Well, Paul reminded them that he had good advice to offer before. Again, not in a I told you so way, but his advice was obviously very trustworthy. So, when he started the next piece of advice, he says, I now urge you to take courage. So, he's basically saying, well, I I've been trustworthy and reliable up to this point. Now, I'm telling
you something else. So, it's just as reliable and Trustworthy as what I've just said. Yeah. Very good. and brother Nicholson thinks. Yes. So, not only do we see Paul's trust in Jehovah, we see his love of people. So, Jeho, he knows Jehovah's going to get him to where he wants to be or needs to be and his companions. So, that could h have happened in numerous ways. But Paul wants th those traveling with him to be saved too. So, that love for people, not just concern or I'm saved and I'm okay attitude. He had a
Real love for people as well. Yeah. Which leads into the B question. What may we learn from the hopeful message Paul delivered? Thanks uh Sister Rowena please. In second Peter chapter 3 verse 9 says that Jehovah does not desire anyone to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance. So it shows that it is really vital that we have to remember that because Jehovah cares for every Human life and every person matters to him. So for us as our part we have to do urgently to endeavor to share Jehovah's message of hope with as
many as possible because that's how precious life lives are at stake. Yeah. Very good. Uh thanks sister um Lee. Jehovah sent an angel and just as he reminded Paul of the promise made through Jesus so Jesus will also support us just as he supported Paul. Yeah. And If you think about what we're talking about here, like we we preach the good news to people and often our the response we get is nothing, right? They think we're what are you talking about? But there could come a time, most likely come a time when they might reflect
on what's been said because of situations that may further develop. So what does it help us to see about our preaching work? Thanks, Sister Hager. Our preaching work is a search and rescue um work and so we know that lives are at stake and so we take it seriously. We leave it to Jehovah how if people are going to respond or not. Yeah. Very good. And for many people we speak to the things we speak to bring immediate hope because they might be facing a situation right now that they need to hear what we're talking
about. So we it adds to the imperative doesn't it? Uh the next section there all were Brought safely to land 16 and 17 we have the question Paul took what occasion to pray and with what effect? Thanks. Um, brother Simone, well, again, under the, uh, I guess you could say it was very skillful. uh the crew what they did. They took all the measures possible. But of course um Jehovah and Jesus were looking over the situation as well. But now that things had steadied and calmed Down a little, Paul encouraged everyone to take a meal
to sustain themselves. But then he also took that opportunity to thank Jehovah for where they were at that point. Yeah. And with what effect? Thanks, brother Bay. Well, after uh Paul gave thanks and they started the account says, they all took courage. So, um, of course, Paul's words and Paul's having Jehovah's spirit there. Not only just help those who are Christians, but was able to help Everyone there on this occasion. Yeah. Very good. And and how did Paul and this is a B question. How did Paul's warning come to be fulfilled? So remember the warning
they were to stay on the ship. Otherwise what could happen? Thanks brother Hob. Well the front ship was stuck in the mud and then came aparts alto together but uh 276 they were survived. They escaped all the ship and went to the island. Yeah. Very good. And brother Arius please. So, not only could uh maybe they drown with the ship uh but now the soldiers uh wanted to kill some of the prisoners uh because they didn't want any to escape. So, here came the second challenge. And so, we see that uh when Julius intervened uh
they prevented this and urged everybody to swim or float to shore. And this brings to fruition uh How he brought them all safely to land. All 276 survived. Yeah. Very good. So the reality was that lives were saved by listening to very clear direction that came from Jehovah through Paul. So there's a few things we take away from our study tonight. Uh really the importance of the preaching work because it saves lives and uh maybe people won't respond immediately but maybe circumstances will change where the by they will become more receptive to uh What's being
uh instructed to them from God's word. And then we've got the example of the Apostle Paul and his strong faith in Jehovah that was unwavering even in what looked like a situation that would take lives and yet he trusted in Jehovah implicitly and was able to share that trust and his confidence with others to their salvation. So uh excellent things that we can learn from Paul's example. We'll hand back to the chairman. Well, thanks, brother Katrupy, for taking us through um our congregation Bible stud. Some excellent points there, weren't there, that was highlighted particularly in
our concluding comments of um really making sure that uh we remember that Jehovah cares about everyone and really a vital part that we can play in our dedication to Jehovah by really witnessing to as many as possible. Well, we've had an enjoyable Meeting tonight, but like all good meetings, they come to an end. So let's stand and sing together now song 43 and that's entitled a prayer of thanks and then following our song we'll invite brother Barek to conclude our meeting with a word of prayer. So a prayer of thanks Psalm 43. Fore directo. territori.
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