©URICINGBOM ONiSTRY

August 2001                        For United States of America km'-E Us 8/01 Vol. 44, No. 8

• ¹ The apostle Paul wrote: “We have become a theatrical spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men.” (1 Cor. 4:9) What does this mean, and how should it affect us in our ministry today?

• ² To a Corinthian, the expression “a theatrical spectacle” likely brought to mind the closing event of a Roman gladiatorial contest, in which condemned people were paraded in front of thousands of spectators before being brutally slaughtered. Similarly, a vast audience—both men and angels—observed the sufferings to which first-century Christians were subjected for bearing witness to the Kingdom. (Heb. 10: 32, 33) Their integrity-keeping course affected more than a few onlookers, just as our endurance does in the modern-day arena. To whom are we a spectacle?

• ³ To the World and to Men: Sometimes the media publish reports about the activities of Jehovah’s people. While we appreciate good reports that are factual and fair in dealing with our work, we also expect bad reports to be spread by our detractors from time to time. Nevertheless, we must continue recommending ourselves as God’s ministers “through bad report and good report.” (2 Cor. 6:4, 8) To honesthearted observers it becomes clear that we are the true disciples of Jesus Christ.

• ⁴ To Angels: Spirit creatures also observe us. The Devil and his demons watch—but with “great anger,” seeking to halt “the work of bearing witness to Jesus.” (Rev. 12:9, 12, 17) Faithful angels of God watch and rejoice when even one sinner repents. (Luke 15:10) It should strengthen us to know that the angels view our ministry as the most urgent, beneficial work being done on earth today!—Rev. 14:6, 7.

• ⁵ When you encounter opposition or think that your ministry is not getting results, remember that you are the center of universal attention. Your faithful endurance speaks volumes. Eventually, your ‘fine fight of faith’ will enable you to ‘get a firm hold on everlasting life.’ —1 Tim. 6:12.

  How Important Is Christian Fellowship?

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• ¹ “No man is an island.” That statement by a 17th-century poet merely echoes what the Bible says about a basic human need—fellowship. (Prov. 18:1) Our Christian association fills this need. In what beneficial ways?

• ² In the Ministry: One of the foremost benefits is the way our brothers strengthen and support us in the public ministry. Jesus sent his disciples “two by two” to preach. (Mark 6:7; Luke 10:1) In line with this pattern, when we work with others in the field service, we experience the truthfulness of Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10. As we carry out our ministry together, the faith, obedience, and love of our companions infuse us with courage and renew our zeal.

• ³ For Personal Help: Our brotherhood is also a source of encouragement and guidance for coping with pressures and resisting temptations. Our Christian associates may call to our attention scriptures that address our personal concerns. They may even pray in our behalf, just as we do for them. (2 Cor. 1:11) And certainly their good example motivates us in right works and strengthens us.

• ⁴ At the Meetings: The blessing of Christian fellowship is enjoyed when we regularly attend congregation meetings. (Heb. 10:24, 25) The program is rich in spiritual instruction, and our presence at the meetings keeps us close to our fellow believers. These gatherings give us opportunity to hear our brothers and sisters express their faith, whether from the platform or from the audience. (Rom. 1:12) Our bond of fellowship deepens as we visit before and after meetings. Such occasions afford us opportunities to relate our own faith-building experiences. Our personalities are affected in a positive way when we associate freely with those who love Jehovah, his Word, his work, and his people.—Phil. 2:1, 2.

• ⁵ We need our Christian associates. Without them, walking on the cramped road leading to life would be more difficult. With their love and encouragement, however, we can continue on toward Jehovah’s righteous new world.—Matt. 7:14.

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Week Starting August 13

Song 30

13 min: Local announcements. Se lected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Encourage everyone to view the video The New World Society in Action in preparation for the discussion at the Service Meeting the week of August 27. Discuss “New Special Assembly Day Program.” Announce date of the next special assembly day, and urge all to attend the entire program. Encourage publishers to invite newly interested ones and Bible students.

17 min: “Do You Want to Do More?”* Include suggestions about doing more to witness to people in your territory who speak a foreign language. Briefly comment on June 15,1997, Watchtower, pages 26-9.

15 min: “Keep Leisure in Its Proper Place.” A book study conductor converses with a couple after the study. He kindly mentions that lately he has not seen them in field service or at the weekend meetings. The couple explain that vacationing and other summertime activities have kept them occupied. The elder reviews main points in the article, helping the couple to see that spiritual interests should always take first place. They express appreciation for the good reminders. They agree that they will set better priorities in the future.—See the October 1,2000, Watchtower, pages 19-20.

Song 68 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting August 20

Song 33

8 min: Local announcements. Accounts report.

15 min: “You Are ‘a Theatrical Spectacle’!”* Mention some local incidents when people made favorable statements about the work or conduct of Jehovah’s Witnesses.—See The Watchtower, March 15, 1998, page 10, and January 15,1999, page 32. 22 min: “Good Manners—A Trait of Godly People.” Elder gives a five-minute talk on paragraphs 1-5. Then he discusses the remainder of the article on stage with another elder and a ministerial servant. They talk about how to overcome some thoughtless habits that can detract from our meetings and minimize the benefits we receive. They highlight how our association with one another is truly encouraging when we show loving concern for the interests of others.—Phil. 2:4.

Song 72 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting August 27

Song 40

10 min: Local announcements. Remind publishers to turn in field service reports for August. Briefly share a suggestion or two on how the Creation book can be offered in the ministry during September. —See examples in Our Kingdom Min? istry, September 1996, page 8, and June 1995, page 4.

10 min: Local needs.

25 min: “A Historical Look at The New World Society in Action.” Audience discussion and interviews. After discussing the questions provided, interview any who saw the original film or who attended the international conventions in the 1950’s. Have them express what they remember about those events, the impact on them spiritually, and their conviction that this is Jehovah’s organization. In October we will review the video United by Divine Teaching.

Song 74 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting September 3

Song 80

8 min: Local announcements.

17 min: “How Important Is Christian Fellowship?”* Include comments under the subheading “Through the Congregation” in the January 15,1996, Watchtower, page 22.

20 min: If Someone Says. Discussion and demonstrations. In the ministry, when people make statements or raise questions that we do not anticipate, we should endeavor to reply instead of changing the subject or ending the conversation. The Reasoning book will often be helpful in this regard. Point out some common remarks, and have publishers demonstrate how to respond with the comments in the Reasoning book. For example: ‘I don’t believe in God.’ (pages 150-1) ‘Why don’t you get involved in efforts to improve the community?’ (pages 207-8) ‘It doesn’t matter what church you belong to.’ (page 332) Encourage all to use this feature of the Reasoning book when unexpected situations arise in the ministry.

Song 121 and concluding prayer.

* Limit introductory comments to less than a minute, and follow with a question-and-answer discussion.

A Historical Look at The New World Society in Action

As you view the video presentation of this 1954 film, think of the answers to these questions: (1) Why was this film originally produced, and what did it accomplish? (2) What material do Jehovah’s Witnesses publish, for whom, and why? (3) How does today’s circulation of the Watchtower magazine compare with that of 1954? (4) In recent years, how has our printing operation become more modernized? (5) What impresses you about the 1953 international convention that was held at Yankee Stadium? (6) What was Trailer City, and what outstanding things did you notice about it? (7) What shows that our work is not just of one nation, one nationality, or one people? (8) In what ways have you sensed the loving spirit with which Jehovah’s organization functions? (Ps. 133:1) (9) Who do you think would appreciate seeing this historical look at the activities of the new world society during the 1950’s?

© 2001 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (ISSN 1067-7259) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc.; M. H. Larson, President; G. F. Simonis, Secretary-Treasurer; 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483. Periodicals Postage Paid at Brooklyn, NY, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Kingdom Ministry, 1000 Red Mills Road, Wallkill, NY 12589-3299.               Printed in U.S.A.

Good Manners—A Trait of Godly People

• ¹ Good manners are rare today. Why is that? People are in,such a hurry that they may seldom think of basic courtesies, such as saying “Please,” “Thank you,” or “Excuse me.” God’s Word foretold a worsening of manners in the last days when it said that people would be ‘lovers of themselves, self-assuming, haughty, rm-thankful, having no natural affection, without self-control, without love of goodness, and headstrong.’ (2 Tim. 3:1-4) All such traits make for bad manners. As godly people, Christians must be on guard so as not to adopt this world’s lack of respect for others.

• ² What Are Manners? Good manners can be described as the acute awareness of the feelings of others, the ability to live with others in peace. Aspects of good manners are considerateness, courteousness, kindness, politeness, tactfulness, and thoughtfulness. These traits find their roots in one’s love for God and neighbor. (Luke 10:27) They cost nothing, but they are worth everything in enhancing our contacts with others.

• ³ Jesus Christ set the perfect example. He always practiced the Golden Rule: “Just as you want men to do to you, do the same way to them.” (Luke 6:31) Do we not marvel at Jesus’ thoughtfulness and loving manner in dealing with his disciples? (Matt. 11:28-30) His good manners did not come from rules laid down in etiquette books. They sprang from a sincere and generous heart. We must try to imitate his fine example.

• ⁴ When do Christians need good manners? Only on special occasions, when concerned about making a good impression? Are they needed only when trying to influence others? No! We ought to manifest good manners at all times. In what ways in particular should we be concerned about this in our association with one another in the congregation?

• ⁵ At the Kingdom Hall: The Kingdom Hall is our place of worship. We are there at the invitation of Jehovah God. In that sense, we are guests. (Ps. 15:1) Are we exemplary guests when we come to the Kingdom Hall? Do we give appropriate attention to our dress and grooming? Surely we should want to avoid adornment that is casual or extreme. Whether attending conventions or our weekly congregation meetings, Jehovah’s people are noted for their mannerly appearance befitting those professing to reverence God. (1 Tim. 2:9, 10) Thus we show due consideration and respect for both our heavenly Host and the other guests that have been invited.

• ⁶ Another way in which we show good manners in connection with meetings is by being on time. Admittedly, this is not always easy. Some may live quite a distance away or may have large families to get ready. It has been noted in some congregations, however, that as many as 25 percent of the publishers habitually arrive after the opening song and prayer. This is a serious matter. It is good to remember that manners have to do with our awareness of the feelings of others. Jehovah, our gracious Host, has arranged these spiritual feasts for our benefit. We show our appreciation and concern for his feelings by being punctual. Additionally, arriving late at meetings is distracting and shows disrespect for those who are already in attendance.

• ⁷ When we assemble, do we take note of new ones in attendance? Welcoming them is part of being mannerly. (Matt. 5:47; Rom. 15:7) A gracious greeting, a warm handshake, a kind smile —all small things, but they add to what identifies us as true Christians. (John 13:35) After coming to a Kingdom Hall for the first time, a man said: “I met more genuinely loving people, total strangers, in one day than I had ever met in the church in which I was raised. It was apparent that I had found the truth.” As a result, he changed his life course, and seven months later he was baptized. Yes, good manners can have far-reaching effects!

• ⁸ If we are mannerly toward strangers we meet, should we not be so “especially toward those related to us in the faith”? (Gal. 6:10) The principle applies: “You must show consideration for the person of an old man [or woman].” (Lev. 19:32) Never should such ones be overlooked at our gatherings.

• ⁹ Paying Close Attention: During congregation meetings, Christian ministers of God are speaking in order to impart some spiritual gift to upbuild us. (Rom. 1:11) It would certainly demonstrate very poor manners on our part if we were to doze off, noisily chew gum, repeatedly whisper to someone sitting nearby, make unnecessary trips to the rest room, read

  km-L Us 8/01

  
  

OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY, AUGUST 2001

unrelated material, or attend to other things during the meeting. Elders should be exemplary in this regard. Good Christian manners will move us to show proper respect for the speaker and his Bible-based message by giving him our undivided attention.

• ¹⁰ Additionally, out of consideration for both the speaker and the audience, we should keep electronic pagers and cellular telephones from disrupting our meetings.

• ¹¹ Manners and Children: Parents should always be alert to the conduct of their children. If a young one begins crying or becomes restless during the meeting and this is disturbing others, it is good to take the child out of the auditorium as soon as possible in order to quiet him. This maybe difficult at times, but remember, this shows that you are alert to the feelings of others. Parents with small children who are likely to become restless often choose to sit toward the rear of the auditorium so as to disturb as few as possible should it become necessary for them to get up during the meeting. Of course, the rest in attendance can show due consideration for families by leaving the back rows open for them to use, if desired.

• ¹² Parents must also be aware of their children’s conduct before and after meetings. Children should not be running inside the building, as this can cause accidents. Running around outside the Kingdom Hall can also be dangerous, particularly in the evenings when visibility is limited. Loud talking outdoors can disturb neighbors and reflect negatively on our worship. Parents who make a conscientious effort to supervise their children both inside and outside the Kingdom Hall are to be commended because this adds to the pleasantness of our dwelling together in unity.—Ps. 133:1.

• ¹³ At the Book Study: We appreciate the hospitality of our brothers who open their homes for congregation meetings. When attending, we need to show respect and consideration for their property. Before entering, we should carefully wipe our shoes in order to avoid soiling floors or carpets. Parents should supervise their children, making sure that they stay in the area of the home designated for the book study. While the group may be small and the atmosphere somewhat informal, we should not take liberties in the homes of others. A young child’s parent should accompany him or her when having to use the bathroom. Further, since the book study is a congregation meeting, we should dress as we do when going to the Kingdom Hall.

• ¹⁴ Good Manners Are Vital: Practicing Christian manners not only reflects well on our ministry but also promotes good relations with others. (2 Cor. 6:3, 4, 6) As worshipers of the bappy God, we should find it easy to smile, to be agreeable, and even to do the small, kindly things that bring joy to others. These mannerly traits will beautify our lives as godly people.

  New Special Assembly Day Program

  
  

The theme of the special assembly day program for the new service year has a solid Scriptural thrust: “Subject Yourselves to God—Oppose the Devil.” (Jas. 4:7) This is sound guidance for these challenging times! Our obeying God’s commands puts us in direct confrontation with Satan. The program will teach us how to stand firm against the Devil’s faith-destroying, evil schemes. What are some of the spiritual gems we will receive at this assembly?

The circuit overseer will show how “Manifesting Godly Subjection as Family Members” strengthens families to withstand the world’s pressures. The visiting speaker’s first talk of the day, “What It Means to Oppose the Devil,” will explain why and how we need to take assertive action to resist Satan’s aims to ruin our spirituality. Two parts are specially tailored to youths, who must also be alert to the Devil’s designs. Many Christians who are now adults refused to go along with the world’s desires when they were young. We will enjoy hearing some of their personal experiences.

Subjection to authority is required of all who make up human society. Thus, the visiting speaker’s concluding talk will highlight four areas where our godly subjection must be manifest: (1) to governments, (2) in the congregation, (3) in secular occupations, and (4) in the family circle. What a practical program!

Those who wish to be baptized at this special assembly day need to notify the presiding overseer as soon as possible. All of us should mark the date on our calendar and plan to attend the entire assembly program. The blessings we receive will be everlasting as we subject ourselves to Jehovah eternally.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of May 7 to August 20, 2001. Use a separate sheet of paper to write down answers to as many of the questions as you can in the time allotted.

[Note: During the written review, only the Bible may be used to answer any question. References that follow the questions are for your personal research. Page and paragraph numbers may not appear on all references to The Watchtower.']

Answer each of the following statements True or False:

• 1. The prayer referred to at Nehemiah 2:4 was one of desperation, at the last minute. [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 2/15 p. 25 par. 8.]^;

• 2. The word “congregation” is translated from the Greek word ek-kle-si'a, inherent in which term are the ideas of solidarity and mutual support. [w99 5/15 p. 25 par. 4]“

• 3. While Jehovah’s servants avoid customs associated with death that conflict with God’s Word, they do not reject all customs associated with death. (John 19:40) [rs p. 102 par. 4]

• 4. During the period when Job lived, he was the only human who was faithful to Jehovah. (Job 1:8) [Weekly Bible reading; see w92 8/1 p. 31 pars. 3-4.]

• 5. The fact that Saul, or Paul, supported himself by making tents shows that he was from a humble background. (Acts 18: 2, 3) [w99 5/15 p. 30 par. 2-p. 31 par. 1] >

• 6. Although David committed serious sins, Jehovah could say that he “walked after me with all his heart” because of David’s repentant attitude and good qualities. (1 Ki. 14:8) [w99 6/15 p. 11 par. 4] *.

• 7. Unless something we promised is un-scriptural, we should do all we can to fulfill our promises even if we later find that doing so is difficult. (Ps. 15:4) [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 9/15 p. 28 par. 5.]

• 8. Psalm 22:1 indicates that under pressure David temporarily lost his faith. [Weekly t Bible reading; see w86 8/15 p. 20 par. 19.]

• 9. A Christian may “fall” in terms of frustrations, disappointments, and legal or financial reversals, but with the aid of God’s spirit and His loving worshipers, he will not be spiritually “hurled down” completely. (Ps. 37:23, 24) [Weekly Bible reading; see w8611/1 p. 30 par. 14.]

• 10. Genesis chapter 1 teaches that God created everything on this earth in six 24-hour days, [rs p. 126 par. 1]

Answer the following questions:

• 11. How did Ezra and his assistants ‘put meaning into’ the Law? (Neh. 8:8) [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 2/15 p. 26 par.4.] Mh'w-

• 12. From what does “the joy of Jehovah” result? (Neh. 8:10) [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 2/15 p. 26 par. 9.] "k                 kr

• 13. Why were those “who volunteered to ' dwell in Jerusalem” blessed? (Neh. 11:2) [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 2/15 p. 26 par. 12.]

• 14. Why did Esther delay in informing the king of her specific intent? (Esther 5:6-8) [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 3/15 p. 24 par. 18.‘]         €c\

• 15. What two important questions are an- •.   ■$>

swered in the book of Job? [si p. 95 par. 1]

• 16. Why did the counsel of Eliphaz dishearten Job and fail to encourage him? (Job 21:34; 22:2, 3) [Weekly Bible reading; see w95 2/15 p. 27 pars. 5-6.]

• 17. What is a psalm? [si p. 101 par. 2] *>   ~     -

• 18. What “empty thing” do the nations keep “muttering,” as recorded at Psalm 2:1? [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 8/15 p. 20 par. 5.] bio cfc* s mi

• 19. What practical lesson about impartiality can we learn from Philip’s ministry involving the Samaritans and the Ethiopian official? (Acts 8:6-13, 26-39) [w99 7/15 p. 25 par. 2] _A

• 20. How did Job illustrate his conviction that God could resurrect him from the grave, which he viewed as a place of concealment from his problems? (Job 14:7, 13-15) [Weekly Bible reading; see wOO 5/15 p. 27 par. 7-p. 28 par. 1.]

Provide the word(s) or phrase needed to complete each of the following statements:

• 21. Esther 8:17 says that the people were “declaring themselves Jews”; similarly today, “            of “other sheep”

have taken their stand alongside the .-■(Rev. 7:9; John 10:16; Zech. 8:

23) [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 3/15 p. 25 bar. 14.]

• 22. As Acts 1:7 indicates, although Jehovah is very conscious of          , , his day

of accounting will come as a, when people are not expecting it. (2 Pet. 3:10) [w99 6/1 p. 5 pars. 2-3]

• 23. At 2 Peter 3:7, 10, the terms “heavens” and.'“earth” are used in a          ; as

the context shows, the “earth” refers to __izfZL—. [rs p. 114 pars. 2-4]

• 24. Wholesome communication is made possible by confidence, trust, and mutual understanding, and these qualities result when marriage is viewed as a ..         relationship and there is genu-

" . ine______to make it work. [w99 7/15

■p.'21 par. 3]

• 25. Positive peer pressure can help us to put moral and spiritual requirements into ..__and thus help us to serve Jehovah ____<__[w99 8/1 p. 24 par. 3]

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

• 26. Mordecai’s “sitting in the king’s gate” indicates that he was (the king’s bodyguard; one of the officers of King Ahasuerus;, awaiting^’ an audience with the king). (Esther 2:19, 20) [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 3/15. p. 24 par. 9.]

• 27. As recorded at Job 19:25-27, Job expressed faith that he would “behold God” in that he would (be favored with a vision; be resurrected to heavenly life; ihaye his eyes of understanding opened to the truth about Jehovah). [Weekly Bible reading; see w9411/15 p. 19 par. 17.]

• 28. Job is remembered most for his (love; kindness; endurance). (Jas. 5:11) [si p. 100 par. 41]

• 29. The writing of the book of Psalms spanned approximately (three hundred; five hundred; a thousand) years, [si p. 101 par. 4]

• 30. (David; Asaph; Ezra) was evidently the final compiler of the book of Psalms, [si p. 102 par. 6]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

Neh. 3:5; Ps. 12:2; 19:7; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Jas. 5:14-16

• 31. We should be willing to expend ourselves and not proudly hold back, viewing hard /V^work as beneath our dignity. [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 2/15 p. 25 pars. 12, 19.] ,32. A Christian who has become involved in _v .£ serious wrongdoing should confess his sin to the elders, [rs p. 83 par. 9]

• 33. While God used dreams to give warn-

_r ings, instruction, and prophecy to his people in times past, he now provides for our salvation through his inspired written Word, [rs p. 106 par. 2]

• 34. If We want God’s friendship, we have to be inwardly honest, without hypocrisy.

(9 [Weekly Bible reading; see w89 9/15 p. 26 par. 7.]

• 35. Obedience to God’s law has a reviving effect on one’s soul and promotes one’s welfare. [Weekly Bible reading; see wOO 10/1 p. 13 par. 4.]

Announcements

■ Literature offer for August: Any of the following 32-page brochures may be used: Does God Really Care About Us?, Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, “Look! I Am Making All Things New,” Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, The Government That Will Bring Paradise, What Happens to Us When We Die?, What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It?, and When Someone You Love Dies. The brochures A Book for All People, Our Problems—Who Will Help Us Solve Them?, Spirits of the Dead—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?, and Will There Ever Be a World Without War? may be offered where appropriate. September: Life —How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? October: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Where interest is found on return visits, subscriptions maybe offered. November: What Does God Require of Us? or Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. If people already have these, Mankind’s Search for God or another older publication may be offered.

■ The presiding overseer or someone designated by him should audit the congregation’s accounts on September 1 or as soon as possible thereafter. When this has been done, make an announcement to the congregation after the next accounts report is read.

■ Congregations should begin requesting the 2002 Calendar of Jehovah’s Witnesses with their September literature request. The calendars will be available in Afrikaans, Albanian, Arabic, Armenian, Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, East Armenian, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish, and Ukrainian.

■ An adequate supply of forms for use during the 2002 service year is being sent to each congregation. Please use these forms with discretion. They should be used only for their intended purpose.

■ Beginning this year, regular pioneers will not be eligible to attend Pioneer Service School unless they are at least 16 years of age by September 1 of the year they attend the school. An exception would be made if a minor’s pioneer parent qualifies to attend the same class.

■ The annual inventory of all literature and magazines on hand should be taken on or as close to August 31, 2001, as possible. This inventory is similar to the actual count taken monthly by the literature coordinator, and the totals should be entered on the Literature Inventory form (S-18). The total number of magazines on hand can be obtained from the magazine servants in each congregation in the literature group. Each coordinating congregation will receive three Literature Inventory forms (S-18). Please mail the original to the branch office no later than September 6. Keep a carbon copy for your files. The third copy may be used as a work sheet. The secretary of the coordinating congregation should supervise the inventory. He and the presiding overseer of the coordinating congregation will sign the form.

□ From August 31, 2001, to September 1,2001, an inventory will be taken of all literature on hand at Brooklyn Bethel. Because of this, no congregation literature requests will be processed for shipment or for pickup during those days.

■ Awake! in Japanese is now available on audiocassette.

■ The Watchtower in Swahili will be available as a large-print edition beginning with the September 1, 2001, issue.

■ New Publications Available:

2001 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses

—Malayalam “All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial”         —Tamil, Thai

How to Find the Road to Paradise (for Muslims)             —Tamil

How to Improve Your Speaking and Teaching Ability —East Armenian, Tongan

How to Start and Continue Bible Discussions             —Tongan

Isaiah’s Prophecy—Light for All Mankind I —Georgian, Hebrew, Iloko, Papiamento, Punjabi

Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life             —Mizo, Wallisian

Life in a Peaceful New World (Tract No. 15)                —Lingala

My Book of Bible Stories (Small size)

—Latvian, Tamil Questions Young People Ask—Answers That Work —Turkish

Should You Believe in the Trinity?

—Tongan

Sing Praises to Jehovah (29 songs)

—Tigrinya

Spirits of the Dead—Can They Help You or Harm You? Do They Really Exist?               —Tongan

The Guidance of God—Our Way to Paradise —Hindi, Macedonian

What Does God Require of Us?

—Acholi, Kirundi, Lingala, Oromo What Happens to Us When We Die?

—Yoruba

What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It?           —Niuean

When Someone You Love Dies

—Latvian, Tongan You Can Be God’s Friend! —Bengali, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Marshallese ■ New Audiocassettes Available: Appreciating Our Spiritual Heritage (Drama, single cassette) —Korean, Portuguese

Families—Make Daily Bible Reading Your Way of Life! (Drama, single cassette)           —Romanian

Marked for Survival (Drama, single cassette)              —Spanish

The Good News According to Luke (set of three cassettes) —Chinese (Mandarin)

The Good News According to John (set of two cassettes) —Chinese (Mandarin)

Warning Examples for Our Day (Drama, single cassette) —German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Ukrainian

What Does God Require of Us? (single cassette)         —Navajo, Urdu

When Someone You Love Dies (single cassette)   —Italian, Japanese,

Slovak

may Service Report

TOTAL 939,078          Baptized: 2,657

Keep Leisure in Its Proper Place

• ¹ In these difficult days, all of us need a change of pace from time to time. A certain amount of recreation is proper. However, too much time spent on leisure, entertainment, and socializing can lull a person into spending less and less time in spiritual pursuits. We must keep leisure in its proper place. (Matt. 5:3) How is this possible? By following the advice found at Ephesians 5:15-17.

• ² Set Limits: Paul wrote that Christians ought to “keep strict watch” as to how wisely they live their lives. Moderation and self-control are needed to limit leisure time to what is really necessary. It is good to give serious thought to the way in which we use our free time. Recreation should serve some beneficial purpose rather than make us feel that we have wasted our time or leave us exhausted. If we are left feeling empty, unrewarded, and somewhat guilty after engaging in an activity, this would indicate that adjustments need to be made in our use of time.

• ³ Be Reasonable: Paul gave counsel on “buying out the opportune time” for the more important things of life, not becoming “unreasonable.” Dedicated Christians cannot allow their lives to be centered on leisure. Although rest and diversion can renew us physically, the source of spiritual energy is God’s active force. (Isa. 40:29-31) We receive his spirit in connection with theocratic activities—studying the Bible, attending congregation meetings, engaging in field service —not through recreation.

• ⁴ Establish Priorities: Paul instructed Christians to “go on perceiving what the will of Jehovah is.” Jesus taught that our activities should center on God’s Kingdom as our priority in life. (Matt. 6:33) It is imperative that we first do the things that will allow us to live up to our dedication to Jehovah. Afterward, leisure time can be kept in its proper place. When that is done, it will have a wholesome effect, and we will enjoy it more.—Eccl. 5:12.

Wus to Eto More?

¹ Jesus likened the Kingdom to priceless treasures. (Matt. 13:44-46) The work of spreading the news of the Kingdom is also a valuable treasure. This ministry deserves top priority in our lives, even if having- a full share in it involves a measure of selfdenial. (Matt. 6:19-21) Do you want to do more in Kingdom service?

² Consider These Essentials: Several things are necessary in order to expand our personal share in the ministry: (1) being determined to put Kingdom interests first in life (Matt. 6:33); (2) exercising faith and relying on Jehovah (2 Cor. 4:1, 7); (3) seeking God’s help through sincere and persistent prayer (Luke 11:8-10); (4) following through and acting in harmony with our prayers.—Jas. 2: 14, 17.

• ³ Ways to Expand Our Ministry: All of us can set the basic goal of regularly spending some time in the ministry each month. But have you also considered .seizing every opportunity to witness informally, striving to make your presentations more meaningful, increasing the effectiveness of your return visits, and endeavoring to conduct progressive home Bible studies? Might you be able to auxiliary or regular pioneer or to serve where the need is greater? If you are a baptized brother, could you reach out to qualify as a ministerial servant or an elder? (1 Tim. 3:1, 10) Could you expand your ministry by applying for Bethel service, Ministerial Training School, or missionary training at Gilead School? —Luke 10:2.

• ⁴ A brother who had a full-time job and spent much time in sports activities was encouraged to become a regular pioneer. He began auxiliary pioneering and then adjusted his circumstances to enter the full-time ministry. He later attended the Ministerial Training School, which helped prepare him for his present assignment as a circuit overseer. He is very glad that he responded to the encouragement he received, and he is confident that he is much happier as a result of his decision to do more in Kingdom service.

• ⁵ Jehovah blesses those who make themselves available. (Isa. 6:8) Let nothing hold you back from expanding your ministry and enjoying even greater satisfaction and refreshment as a result.

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