Ezra had seen how Jehovah supported His people in times of test. Years earlier, in 484 B.C.E., Ezra was likely living in Babylon when King Ahasuerus issued a decree to exterminate the Jews throughout the Persian Empire. (Esther 3:7, 13-15) Ezra’s life was in danger! In response to this threat, the Jews “in every province” fasted and mourned, no doubt turning to Jehovah in prayer for guidance. (Esther 4:3) Imagine how Ezra and his fellow Jews felt when the tables were turned on those who had plotted to destroy the Jews! (Esther 9:1, 2) What Ezra experienced during those challenging times may have prepared him for future tests and very likely strengthened his confidence in Jehovah’s ability to protect His people. w23.11 17 ¶12-13

The apostle Paul was primarily referring to “works of law,” the law of Moses, given at Mount Sinai. (Rom. 3:21, 28) It seems that in Paul’s day some Jewish Christians were having a hard time accepting that the Mosaic Law and the works required by that Law had been done away with. Consequently, Paul pointed to Abraham’s example to prove that a righteous standing with God does not result from “works of law.” It comes from faith. That is encouraging because knowing this gives us confidence that a good standing with God is within our reach. It means that we can develop faith in God and in Christ, which can actually lead to divine approval. On the other hand, the “works” discussed in James chapter 2 are not the “works of law” mentioned by Paul. James is referring to the works, or activities, that Christians do in their daily life. (Jas. 2:24) Such works indicate whether a Christian has genuine faith in God or not. w23.12 3 ¶8; 4-5 ¶10-11

Sisters who are considering marriage should choose their mate very carefully. Remember, you will come under the headship of the man you marry. (Rom. 7:2; Eph. 5:33) So ask yourself: ‘Is he a mature Christian? Is he putting spiritual interests first in his life? Does he make wise decisions? Can he admit his mistakes? Does he respect women? Does he have the skills needed to support me spiritually, materially, and emotionally?’ Of course, if you want to find a good prospective husband, you will need to be a good prospective wife. A good wife is “a helper” for her husband and “a complement” of him. (Gen. 2:18) And because she loves Jehovah, she works to enhance her husband’s reputation. (Prov. 31:11, 12; 1 Tim. 3:11) You can prepare for this role by deepening your love for Jehovah and by being a helper to others at home and in the congregation. w23.12 22-23 ¶18-19