Tuesday, October 22
Truly I tell you today, you will be with me in Paradise.—Luke 23:43.
Jesus and the two criminals beside him were suffering as they felt their life draining away. (Luke 23:32, 33) Both of the criminals had been speaking abusively of Jesus. (Matt. 27:44; Mark 15:32) But one of them had a change of heart. He said: “Jesus, remember me when you get into your Kingdom.” Jesus replied with the words of today’s text. (Luke 23:39-42) Jesus’ words to the criminal should move us to think about what life in Paradise will be like. Actually, we can learn something about Paradise from the peaceful rule of King Solomon. And we can expect that Jesus, the one greater than Solomon, will work along with his corulers to bring wonderful conditions to the earth. (Matt. 12:42) Understandably, the “other sheep” should be interested in what they need to do to qualify to live forever in Paradise.—John 10:16. w22.12 8 ¶1; 9 ¶4
Wednesday, October 23
He will surely show you favor at the sound of your cry for help.—Isa. 30:19.
Isaiah assures us that Jehovah will listen attentively when we cry out to Him and will respond quickly to our supplications. Isaiah adds: “He will answer you as soon as he hears it.” These reassuring words remind us that our Father is willing—yes, eager—to come to the aid of those who reach out to him. Knowing this helps us to endure with joy. Jehovah gives attention to the prayer of each one of us. Why can we say that? In the first part of Isaiah chapter 30, the pronoun “you” is used in the plural form because Jehovah is addressing his people as a group. However, in verse 19 “you” is addressed to individuals. Isaiah writes: “You will by no means weep”; “he will surely show you favor”; “he will answer you.” As a loving Father, Jehovah views us as individuals and gives our prayers his personal attention.—Ps. 116:1; Isa. 57:15. w22.11 9 ¶5-6
Thursday, October 24
Prove yourselves cautious as serpents and yet innocent as doves.—Matt. 10:16.
Preaching and teaching despite opposition brings us joy and peace. In the first century when the Jewish authorities commanded the apostles to stop preaching, those faithful men chose to obey God. They kept preaching, and that work made them happy. (Acts 5:27-29, 41, 42) Of course, when our work is restricted, we must be discreet while preaching. But if we do our best, we will have the peace that comes from pleasing Jehovah and from sharing a lifesaving message. Be confident that even during the most difficult times, we can have peace. At such times, we must remember that the peace we need is the peace that only Jehovah can give. Rely on him when you face a disease outbreak, a disaster, or persecution. Stick close to his organization. Look ahead to the marvelous future that awaits you. As you do, “the God of peace will be with you.”—Phil. 4:9. w22.12 21 ¶17-18