Monday, May 14
Do not let your hands drop down.—Zeph. 3:16.
To let the figurative hands drop down has at times been used to describe someone who is discouraged, disheartened, or without hope. (2 Chron. 15:7, ftn.; Heb. 12:12) It is common for a person in that situation to give up. Sadly, life in Satan’s wicked world creates a tremendous amount of pressure, which can cause anxiety and thus make a person feel weighed down. That can be like an anchor attached to a boat, not allowing the boat to move forward. (Prov. 12:25) What could cause you to feel that way? Well, maybe you are trying to cope with the death of a loved one, deal with a serious illness, provide for your family in these hard economic times, or you may be facing opposition. The resulting emotional stress might in time drain your strength. It could even cause you to lose your joy. But you can be assured that God is ready to give you a helping hand.—Isa. 41:10, 13. w16.09 1:2, 4
May 14-20
MARK 9-10
Song 22 and Prayer
Opening Comments (3 min. or less)
TREASURES FROM GOD’S WORD
“A Faith-Strengthening Vision”: (10 min.)
Mr 9:1—Jesus promised that some apostles would see a visionary preview of the Kingdom (w05 1/15 12 ¶9-10)
Mr 9:2-6—Peter, James, and John saw the transfigured Jesus conversing with “Elijah” and “Moses” (w05 1/15 12 ¶11)
Mr 9:7—Jehovah affirmed with his own voice that Jesus is his Son (“a voice” study note on Mr 9:7, nwtsty)
Digging for Spiritual Gems: (8 min.)
Mr 10:6-9—What principle about marriage did Jesus highlight? (w08 2/15 30 ¶8)
Mr 10:17, 18—Why did Jesus correct a certain man for calling him “Good Teacher”? (“Good Teacher,” “Nobody is good except one, God” study notes on Mr 10:17, 18, nwtsty)
What has this week’s Bible reading taught you about Jehovah?
What other spiritual gems have you discovered in this week’s Bible reading?
Bible Reading: (4 min. or less) Mr 9:1-13
APPLY YOURSELF TO THE FIELD MINISTRY
Initial Call: (2 min. or less) Use the sample conversation.
First Return Visit Video: (5 min.) Play and discuss the video.
Talk: (6 min. or less) w04 5/15 30-31—Theme: What Is the Meaning of Jesus’ Words Recorded at Mark 10:25?
LIVING AS CHRISTIANS
“What God Has Yoked Together . . .”: (15 min.) Discussion. Play the video Love and Respect Unites Families.
Congregation Bible Study: (30 min.) jy chap. 20
Review Followed by Preview of Next Week (3 min.)
Song 66 and Prayer