to choose his own type of treatment. Some may favor surgery, some medicines, some diets, and some may prefer other forms of treatment. One illness may require surgery, another may call for dieting. Also, the treatment that helps one may be of no aid or even be detrimental to another. So let each one go to those who are trained in the treatment of his choice. The Society is formed for the purpose of preaching the gospel, and in this field of activity we are happy to offer help and advice. We are not professionally trained doctors, and do not advise on health matters except as they may involve Scriptural issues, such as in the case of blood transfusions.

From time to time we do publish articles on such subjects as surgery, chiropractic, osteopathy, zone therapy, etc. Such articles constitute no endorsement of these practices by us. They are offered in Awake! on the same basis that articles on other subjects are offered, namely, as general information and not as a recommendation. God’s provision to restore us to perfection is the ransom by Christ Jesus. In the meantime, fanaticism in health matters is unwise, and absorption in health fads is a form of introversion that keeps the mind on oneself, which is conducive to neither physical nor spiritual health. Sweeping claims for cures by this or that system are always suspect. As stated before, each individual differs. (Rom. 14:2, 3) Moderation is usually beneficial.

Finally, if any claim that the Society is supporting this or that health program, be alerted that such one is wrongly using the Society’s name for commercial purposes, for personal gain. (1 Tim. 6:5-10) Some may attempt to boost their pills or other health products or practices by naming one prominent among Jehovah’s witnesses as a user or patient; that should never be taken to mean that the Society backs such pills or practices. There are both honest ones trying to help and crooked ones working a racket in all the various fields of orthodox and unorthodox therapies. The Society is separate from them, wholly absorbed in its work of gospel-preaching.

Announcements

PUBLISH UPLIFT AND COMFORT FOR THE POOR—Ps. 113:7, 8, AS.

Millions today are in a poverty-stricken condition. The inability of men to improve the lot of the oppressed masses and to lift their burdens makes relief seem unattainable. However, most disturbing is not the lack of material riches, but the spiritual poverty everywhere in evidence. Here the wise words of the Master Prophet come to mind: “Happy are those who are conscious of their spiritual need.” He knew of Jehovah’s promise to raise up the poor out of the dust and to lift up the needy. (Ps. 113:7, 8, AS) Literally millions of such poor people are to be found throughout the earth today. They need to be fed with wholesome spiritual food from God’s Word to put them into a healthy state of heart and mind and to strengthen them for right works. Watchtower readers may aid others during the month of March by taking the Watchtower magazine to people in their locality, and so publish uplift and comfort for those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Present the Watchtower offer of a year’s subscription and three booklets for $1. Then, if not associated with a company of Jehovah’s witnesses, send a report of your “publishing” work to the Brooklyn office.

IS RELIGION A GOOD THING?

Millions of sincere persons practice religion. These maintain that religion is beneficial and aids them to live and work for a better and happier life. Others assert that because of the vast number of religions on earth today, and the variety of viewpoints on the subject, many persons are confused and perplexed as to just what good religion has accomplished and thus are unable to determine whether it is worth having or not. Also, religion’s part in world affairs and its contribution to present world conditions cause many to question religion’s value today. Here, however, is an opportunity to find a satisfactory answer to a vital question. The 352-page book What Has Religion Done for Mankind? brings to the reader’s attention an enlightening treatise on the world’s leading religions. With the aid of this absorbing book you will be able to determine for yourself what religion has done and to decide which religion is good and true. Send for this book today, remitting 50c, and it will be mailed to you postpaid.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES

Week of March 2: Is Interfaith God’s Way?

Week of March 9: Jehovah’s Theocratic Organization Today.