Tuesday, December 6
The king of the south will lock horns with him.—Dan. 11:40; ftn.
The king of the north and the king of the south continue to compete for world domination. For example, consider what happened after World War II when the Soviet Union and its allies gained influence over much of Europe. The actions of the king of the north forced the king of the south to form an international military alliance, known as NATO. The king of the north continues to compete with the king of the south in an expensive arms race. The king of the north fought his rival in proxy wars and insurgencies in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In recent years, Russia and its allies have spread their influence across the globe. They have also engaged with the king of the south in cyber warfare. The kings have accused each other of using destructive computer programs in an effort to damage their economies and political systems. And as foretold by Daniel, the king of the north continues his attack on God’s people.—Dan. 11:41. w20.05 13 ¶5-6
Wednesday, December 7
I myself will search for my sheep, and I will care for them.—Ezek. 34:11.
“Can a woman forget her nursing child?” That was a question Jehovah asked in the days of the prophet Isaiah. “Even if these women forget, I would never forget you,” God told his people. (Isa. 49:15) He does not often compare himself to a mother. However, he did so on that occasion. Jehovah used the bond between a mother and her child to reveal how deeply he is attached to his servants. Most mothers can relate to what a sister named Jasmin says, “When you nurse your child, you form a very special bond that lasts a lifetime.” Jehovah takes note when even one of his children stops associating with the Christian congregation and engaging in the preaching work. Many of these dear brothers and sisters who have become inactive do come back to the congregation, where they are most welcome! Jehovah wants them to come back, and so do we.—1 Pet. 2:25. w20.06 18 ¶1-3
Thursday, December 8
Keep [your] eyes . . . on the things unseen. For the things seen are temporary, but the things unseen are everlasting.—2 Cor. 4:18.
Not all treasures can be seen. In fact, the greatest treasures are unseen. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus mentioned heavenly treasures that are vastly superior to material possessions. Then he added this truth: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt. 6:19-21) Our heart will move us to pursue the things we treasure, or value highly. We store up “treasures in heaven” by gaining a good name, or standing, with God. Such treasures, Jesus explained, can never be destroyed or stolen. The apostle Paul urges us to “keep our eyes . . . on the things unseen.” (2 Cor. 4:17, 18) These unseen things are treasures that include the blessings we will enjoy in God’s new world. Do we show that we appreciate these unseen treasures? w20.05 26 ¶1-2