Jehovah asked Abraham to offer up his own son Isaac as a sacrifice. Abraham surely found this to be the most painful task imaginable. Nonetheless, he prepared to follow through with it. But God stopped him at the last moment. Still, that example teaches all people of faith a vital truth​—Jehovah would be willing to offer his own beloved Son as a sacrifice. Jehovah loves humans that much. (Gen. 22:1-18) Centuries later, the Law given to the nation of Israel called for many sacrifices to atone for the sins of God’s people. (Lev. 4:27-29; 17:11) Such sacrifices pointed to a greater sacrifice, one that would completely save mankind from sin. God’s prophets were inspired to explain that the promised offspring, who turned out to be a special Son of God, would have to suffer and be put to death in order to save mankind​—including you—​from sin and death!​—Isa. 53:1-12. w24.08 31:7-8

When you do your Bible reading, be sure to look for ways to apply what you read. As you go over a portion of God’s Word, ask yourself, ‘How can I apply this information now or in the near future?’ To illustrate, let’s say that your Bible reading included 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18. After reading those two verses, you could stop and think of how often and how deeply you pray. Also, you could reflect on things for which you are grateful. Maybe you determine that you will thank Jehovah for three specific things. With even a few minutes of such focused attention, you will to some extent become a hearer and a doer of God’s Word. Think of how you would benefit by repeating this process each day with other portions of the Bible that you read! Yes, you will grow as a doer of God’s Word. w24.09 36:9-10

Jehovah created us with a special ability. Although we enjoy receiving, we gain even greater happiness when we give to others. We feel good when we are able to help our fellow believers. And we are happy when they express their appreciation. Yet, whether the receiver expresses appreciation or not, we can be glad that we did the right thing. Never forget that whatever you give, “Jehovah has the means to give you much more.” (2 Chron. 25:9) We simply cannot outgive Jehovah! And there is no greater joy than to be repaid by Jehovah himself. Let us be determined, then, to continue imitating our generous heavenly Father. w24.09 39:20-21