In the days ahead, we will encounter trials that will require us to lean on Jehovah as never before. Bible accounts and experiences of modern-day Witnesses will help us discern how God has displayed rocklike qualities to support his servants. Think deeply about those accounts. Doing so can help you to make Jehovah your Rock. Also, you will be better equipped to build up the congregation. For example, Jesus gave Simon the name Cephas (translated “Peter”), which means “A Piece of Rock.” (John 1:42) This indicated that he would become a source of comfort and stability in the congregation. Congregation elders are described as “the shadow of a massive crag.” That illustrates how they protect those in the congregation. (Isa. 32:2) Of course, the congregation benefits when all​—brothers and sisters—​imitate Jehovah’s rocklike qualities. w24.06 28 ¶10-11

The kings of Israel whom Jehovah considered faithful adhered to true worship. The majority of the kings whom Jehovah judged as unfaithful abandoned his Law in favor of false worship. (1 Ki. 21:25, 26; 2 Chron. 12:1) Why was the issue of worship so important to Jehovah? For one thing, the kings were responsible for guiding God’s people in true worship. Also, false worship inevitably leads to other serious sins and injustices. (Hos. 4:1, 2) Furthermore, the kings and their subjects were dedicated to Jehovah. Thus, the Bible likens their involvement in false worship to adultery. (Jer. 3:8, 9) A person who commits literal adultery sins against his or her mate in a most personal way. Similarly, a dedicated servant of Jehovah who engages in false worship sins against Him in a direct and personal manner.​—Deut. 4:23. w24.07 22-23 ¶12-15

The elders strive to reflect Jehovah’s compassion as they deal with someone who has been removed from the congregation. For example, Jehovah did not wait for his wayward people in ancient Israel to take the first step. Rather, he took the initiative to reach out to them even before they showed any signs of repentance. Jehovah illustrated his compassion by telling the prophet Hosea to offer reconciliation to his wife, who was still sinning. (Hos. 3:1; Mal. 3:7) In imitation of Jehovah, Christian elders genuinely want the wrongdoer to return, and they do not make it difficult for him to do so. In Jesus’ parable of the lost son, the father “ran and embraced [his son] and tenderly kissed him.” (Luke 15:20) Notice that the father did not wait for his son to beg for forgiveness. Rather, he took the initiative, as any loving father would. w24.08 28 ¶7-8