When There Is a Need for “Readjustment”

 8. In what ways do we all need to be readjusted at times?

⁸ First, the “gifts in men” are provided “with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones,” says Paul. (Ephesians 4:12) The Greek noun rendered “readjustment” refers to putting something “into proper alignment.” As imperfect humans, we all need to be readjusted from time to time​—to have our thinking, attitudes, or conduct brought “into proper alignment” with God’s thinking and will. Jehovah has lovingly provided “gifts in men” to help us make the needed adjustments. How do they do this?

 9. How can an elder help to readjust a sheep who has erred?

⁹ At times, an elder may be called upon to help a sheep who has erred, who perhaps has ‘taken some false step before he is aware of it.’ How can an elder help? “Try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness,” says Galatians 6:1. Hence, when offering counsel, an elder would not scold the erring one, employing harsh words. Counsel should encourage, not “terrify,” the one receiving it. (2 Corinthians 10:9; compare Job 33:7.) The individual may already feel ashamed, so a loving shepherd avoids crushing that one’s spirit. When counsel, even firm reproof, is clearly motivated by and given in love, it is likely to realign the thinking or conduct of the erring one, thus restoring him.​—2 Timothy 4:2.

10. What does readjusting others involve?

¹⁰ In providing “gifts in men” for our readjustment, Jehovah had in mind that elders be refreshing spiritually and worthy of imitation by his people. (1 Corinthians 16:17, 18; Philippians 3:17) Readjusting others involves not only correcting those taking a wrong course but also helping faithful ones to stick to the right course.a Today, with so many problems that tend to dishearten, many need encouragement to hold on. Some may need tender help to align their thinking with God’s. For example, some faithful Christians struggle with deep feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness. Such “depressed souls” may feel that Jehovah could never love them and that even their best efforts to serve God could never be acceptable to him. (1 Thessalonians 5:14) But this way of thinking is not in alignment with how God truly feels about his worshipers.

11. What can elders do to help those who struggle with feelings of unworthiness?

¹¹ Elders, what can you do to help such ones? Kindly share with them Scriptural proof that Jehovah cares for each of his servants and reassure them that these Bible texts apply to them personally. (Luke 12:6, 7, 24) Help them to see that Jehovah has ‘drawn’ them to serve him, so surely he must see value in them. (John 6:44) Assure them that they are not alone​—many faithful servants of Jehovah have had similar feelings. The prophet Elijah was once so deeply depressed that he wanted to die. (1 Kings 19:1-4) Some anointed Christians in the first century felt ‘condemned’ by their own hearts. (1 John 3:20) There is comfort in knowing that faithful ones in Bible times had “feelings like ours.” (James 5:17) You can also review encouraging articles in The Watchtower and Awake! with the downhearted. Your loving efforts to restore the confidence of such ones will not go unnoticed by the God who has given you as “gifts in men.”​—Hebrews 6:10.

“Building Up” the Flock

12. What is indicated by the expression “the building up of the body of the Christ,” and what is the key to building up the flock?

¹² Second, the “gifts in men” are given with a view to “the building up of the body of the Christ.” (Ephesians 4:12) Paul here employs a figure of speech. “Building up” calls to mind construction, and “the body of the Christ” refers to people​—the members of the anointed Christian congregation. (1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 5:23, 29, 30) Elders need to help their brothers to grow strong spiritually. Their objective is ‘to build up and not to tear down’ the flock. (2 Corinthians 10:8) The key to building up the flock is love, for “love builds up.”​—1 Corinthians 8:1.

13. What does it mean to be empathetic, and why is it important for elders to show empathy?

¹³ One facet of love that helps elders to build up the flock is empathy. To be empathetic means to feel for others​—to identify with their thoughts and feelings, considering their limitations. (1 Peter 3:8) Why is it important for elders to have empathy? Above all because Jehovah​—the one who gives the “gifts in men”—​is a God of empathy. When his servants are suffering or in pain, he feels for them. (Exodus 3:7; Isaiah 63:9) He is considerate of their limitations. (Psalm 103:14) How, then, can elders show empathy?

14. In what ways can elders show empathy to others?

¹⁴ When someone discouraged comes to them, they listen, acknowledging that one’s feelings. They try to understand the background, personality, and circumstances of their brothers. Then when elders give upbuilding Scriptural help, the sheep will find it easy to accept because it comes from shepherds who truly understand and care about them. (Proverbs 16:23) Empathy also moves elders to consider the limitations of others and the feelings that may result therefrom. For example, some conscientious Christians may feel guilty because they are not able to do more in serving God, perhaps because of old age or poor health. On the other hand, some may need encouragement to improve their ministry. (Hebrews 5:12; 6:1) Empathy will move elders to find “delightful words” that build others up. (Ecclesiastes 12:10) When Jehovah’s sheep are built up and motivated, their love for God will move them to do all they can in serving him!