Brothers, to qualify as an elder, you must “be irreprehensible,” that is, have a good reputation in the congregation because your conduct is above reproach. (1 Tim. 3:2) In addition, you should have a fine testimony from outsiders. Unbelievers may criticize your Christian beliefs, but they should have no valid reason to question your honesty or conduct. (Dan. 6:4, 5) Ask yourself, ‘Do I have a good reputation both inside and outside the congregation?’ If you are “a lover of goodness,” you look for the good in others and commend them for their fine qualities. (Titus 1:8) You are also happy to do good for others, even going beyond what is required. Why is this quality so important for elders? Because they use much of their valuable time to shepherd the congregation and care for assignments. (1 Pet. 5:1-3) Even so, the joy that comes from serving others far outweighs any sacrifice.​—Acts 20:35. w24.11 20-21 ¶3-5

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

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