Nazirites vowed not to cut their hair. That was a way to show their complete submission to Jehovah. Sadly, there were times in Israel’s history when Nazirites were not appreciated or supported. At times, it must have taken real courage for a Nazirite to stick to his vow and stand out as different. (Amos 2:12) Because we choose to submit to Jehovah’s will, we too stand out as different from the people around us. We need courage to identify ourselves as Jehovah’s Witnesses at work or at school. And as this world’s attitudes and conduct go from bad to worse, we will likely find it more difficult to live according to Bible principles and share the good news with others. (2 Tim. 1:8; 3:13) Always remember, though, that we “make [Jehovah’s] heart rejoice” when we courageously stand out as different from those who do not serve him.​—Prov. 27:11; Mal. 3:18. w24.02 7:7, 9

Consider the diversity of the congregation in Rome. Among them were not only Jews, who were raised to obey the Mosaic Law, but also Gentiles, whose background was totally different. Some Christians were likely slaves while others were freemen​—perhaps some were even slave owners. How could those Christians overcome such differences and strengthen their love? The apostle Paul urged them to “welcome one another.” What did he mean? The word translated “welcome” means to receive someone kindly or hospitably, such as into one’s home or circle of friends. For example, Paul told Philemon how to welcome the runaway slave Onesimus: “Receive him kindly.” (Philem. 17) And Priscilla and Aquila welcomed Apollos, who knew less about Christianity than they did, by taking “him into their company.” (Acts 18:26) Rather than allow their diversity to divide them, those Christians overcame their differences and welcomed one another. w23.07 29:13

The main reason you dedicate yourself to Jehovah is that you love him. Your love is not based on emotion alone. Rather, it is rooted in “accurate knowledge” and “spiritual comprehension”​—the things that you learned about Jehovah that caused your love for him to grow. (Col. 1:9) Your study of the Scriptures has convinced you (1) that Jehovah is real, (2) that the Bible is his inspired Word, and (3) that he uses his organization to accomplish his will. Those who dedicate themselves to Jehovah should know the basic teachings found in God’s Word and be living in harmony with its standards. They share their faith with others to the extent that their circumstances allow. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Their love for Jehovah has grown, and their heartfelt desire is to give him exclusive devotion. Is that not so of you? w24.03 9:6-8