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Finding Delight in Jehovah’s WaysThe Watchtower—1974 | September 15
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17. How does Jehovah want us to feel about the service that we render him?
17 To all who have ‘tasted and seen that Jehovah is good,’ the service of Jehovah is delightful in all its aspects. (Ps. 34:8) It is a volunteer service. (Ps. 110:3) It would hurt Jehovah if any of his servants felt forced, or were not happy, rejoicing in doing his will. Jesus found great joy in all his service to Jehovah. (Ps. 40:8; Heb. 12:2) Since Jehovah wants us to be happy, serving such a delightful God is not a matter of being an ascetic, overserious, always denying ourselves anything that is not work. The Bible counsels: “Do not become righteous overmuch, nor show yourself excessively wise. Why should you cause desolation to yourself?”—Eccl. 7:16.
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Finding Delight in Jehovah’s WaysThe Watchtower—1974 | September 15
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He must also exercise self-control, so as not to let imperfect human inclinations take over. (1 Cor. 9:26, 27; Prov. 6:9-11) Yet God’s servants are not required to drive themselves unreasonably. For example, perhaps you plan to spend a certain amount of time in field service. However, if you become weary, is it not better to stop and rest for a few minutes and then start in again than to feel driven to go without a pause? In fact, might this enable you actually to serve Jehovah better because you are relaxed, happy and able to think more clearly? Or, if you are cold and weary, is it not better to stop for a hot drink to warm and refresh yourself and then to continue instead of forcing yourself relentlessly, with risk to your enjoyment and effectiveness? Jesus worked whole-souled, yet he recognized the need to rest occasionally, and did not feel guilty while doing it. (Mark 6:31, 32) Moreover, “a joyful heart has a good effect on the countenance,” and the people to whom you witness cannot help but be favorably affected if you are happy.—Prov. 15:13.
20. What will be the results if you truly enjoy your service to Jehovah?
20 So, enjoy your service to Jehovah. Rejoice and delight in it. (Phil. 4:4) He does not want your worship toward him to be a burden. If you enjoy your service your heart will prompt you to do even more. Happiness is contagious, and such a spirit will manifest itself throughout the entire congregation. New ones will observe it and will likewise see that the ways of Jehovah are truly a delight and will join you in happy service to him.—Zech. 8:23.
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