Manaen​—Put Spiritual Pursuits First

Manaen was among those who took the lead in the first-century Antioch congregation. He “was educated with Herod the district ruler.” (Acts 13:1) So Manaen had a significant education and may have enjoyed a privileged upbringing.

Despite his background, Manaen chose to become a Christian and support the congregation. He did not use his education or his connection to the ruling class to advance himself. Instead, he served his brothers.

Manaen’s example shows that serving Jehovah is more important than pursuing a worldly status. Like Manaen, we should prioritize spiritual activities over worldly pursuits. (Matt. 6:33) Additionally, even though we value education, we “make sure of the more important things” and ensure that secular pursuits do not interfere with our worship of Jehovah.​—Phil. 1:9, 10.