The elders strive to reflect Jehovah’s compassion as they deal with someone who has been removed from the congregation. For example, Jehovah did not wait for his wayward people in ancient Israel to take the first step. Rather, he took the initiative to reach out to them even before they showed any signs of repentance. Jehovah illustrated his compassion by telling the prophet Hosea to offer reconciliation to his wife, who was still sinning. (Hos. 3:1; Mal. 3:7) In imitation of Jehovah, Christian elders genuinely want the wrongdoer to return, and they do not make it difficult for him to do so. In Jesus’ parable of the lost son, the father “ran and embraced [his son] and tenderly kissed him.” (Luke 15:20) Notice that the father did not wait for his son to beg for forgiveness. Rather, he took the initiative, as any loving father would. w24.08 35:7-8

As the words in today’s text indicate, Jehovah does not hoard his wisdom. He generously shares it with others. Notice, too, that when Jehovah gives wisdom, he does so “without reproaching,” or “without finding fault.” He never makes us feel bad for admitting that we need his guidance. Actually, he urges us to seek it. (Prov. 2:1-6) What about us? Can we imitate Jehovah by sharing our wisdom? (Ps. 32:8) Jehovah’s people have many opportunities to share what they have learned. For instance, we often train new ones in the ministry. Elders patiently help ministerial servants and baptized brothers to learn how to handle their assignments in the congregation. And those with experience in construction and maintenance help train less experienced ones to do work on theocratic facilities. w24.09 39:11-12

Brothers, to qualify as an elder, you must “be irreprehensible,” that is, have a good reputation in the congregation because your conduct is above reproach. (1 Tim. 3:2) In addition, you should have a fine testimony from outsiders. Unbelievers may criticize your Christian beliefs, but they should have no valid reason to question your honesty or conduct. (Dan. 6:4, 5) Ask yourself, ‘Do I have a good reputation both inside and outside the congregation?’ If you are “a lover of goodness,” you look for the good in others and commend them for their fine qualities. (Titus 1:8) You are also happy to do good for others, even going beyond what is required. Why is this quality so important for elders? Because they use much of their valuable time to shepherd the congregation and care for assignments. (1 Pet. 5:1-3) Even so, the joy that comes from serving others far outweighs any sacrifice.​—Acts 20:35. w24.11 47:3-5