“Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need, since the kingdom of the heavens belongs to them.

Are you ‘conscious of your spiritual need’? There have been some persons who studied the Bible with one of Jehovah’s witnesses, but who for some reason discontinued the study and drifted away. Did they find happiness by changing their course? Did they completely forget what they learned? Or did they now have it impressed on them that “the word of God is alive and exerts power”? (Heb. 4:12) Actually, many of these have found that the Bible truths they had learned made them feel really out of place when they had got back in the old world and resumed trying to be part of it. So, many of them have made the effort to retrace their steps and again associate with, and be identified with, Jehovah’s witnesses.

You would likely be surprised if you knew how many of Jehovah’s witnesses, especially among the younger ones, have had just that experience. They made some progress in gaining a knowledge of the truth of God’s Word the Bible, or were reared that way from infancy, and then, perhaps in their teen years, they struck out on a course of independence. Some of them got involved in drugs, loose living and hippie-style dress and appearance, only to get the bitter taste of frustration. They got some thrills and excitement, but no real happiness. Then they made fresh contact with their former friends, who were able to give them practical help and encouragement. They became “conscious of their spiritual need.” This resulted in their turning around and cleaning themselves up. To look at them today​—clean, eager, fresh-looking and ready to be friendly—​you would never imagine that they had come from so bad a background. They no longer feel out of place, but are associating joyfully in the Christian congregation, with deep appreciation for the purpose for which they have been created. They have regained their happiness.

The first of the nine ‘happinesses’ of Jesus’ sermon is thus fundamental in showing us the way to benefit from the Source of real happiness. Those who are aware of their need for spiritual guidance are led to seek a personal relationship with Jehovah. As the relationship grows stronger, they become God’s friends and are very conscious of the inner peace and happiness that no one can take away. (John 14:27)