Wednesday, November 4
There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.—Acts 20:35.
Ministerial servants perform vital work in the congregations. The apostle Paul obviously appreciated these loyal men. For instance, when writing to Christians in Philippi, he specifically greeted the ministerial servants along with the elders. (Phil. 1:1) Whether young or old, many baptized brothers find great joy in being ministerial servants. For example, Devan was 18 when he was appointed. On the other hand, a brother named Luis was appointed in his early 50’s. He summed up the feeling of many when he said, “I feel so privileged to do the work of a ministerial servant, especially when I think of all the love the congregation has shown me!” If you are a baptized brother and you are not yet a ministerial servant, could you make that your goal? w24.11 14 ¶1-3
Thursday, November 5
I beg you, O Jehovah, remember . . . how . . . I have done what was good in your eyes.—2 Ki. 20:3.
At the age of 39, King Hezekiah of Judah learned that he had a terminal illness. The prophet Isaiah delivered Jehovah’s message that Hezekiah would die from his sickness. (2 Ki. 20:1) There seemed to be no hope for Hezekiah. Devastated by the news, Hezekiah wept profusely. He prayed to Jehovah fervently. Jehovah was touched by Hezekiah’s tearful plea and kindly said to him: “I have heard your prayer. I have seen your tears. Here I am healing you.” Through Isaiah, Jehovah mercifully promised to extend his life and to rescue Jerusalem out of the hands of the Assyrians. (2 Ki. 20:4-6) Are you facing a health situation that appears to be hopeless? Turn to Jehovah in prayer, even in tears. The Bible assures us that “the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort” will comfort us in all our trials.—2 Cor. 1:3, 4. w24.12 24 ¶15-17
Friday, November 6
I have hope toward God, which hope these men also look forward to, that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.—Acts 24:15.
What a joy it will be to welcome resurrected ones back to life! Imagine, too, how you will enjoy learning more about Jehovah by examining his numerous works of creation. (Ps. 104:24; Isa. 11:9) Best of all, how thrilling it will be to worship Jehovah without the slightest feeling of guilt! Would you trade these future blessings for “the temporary enjoyment of sin”? (Heb. 11:25) Certainly not! These blessings are worth any sacrifice we must make now. Remember, the Paradise earth will not always be a future hope. It will eventually become the present reality. None of this would be possible if Jehovah had not loved us enough to provide the gift of his Son! w25.01 29 ¶12