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00:00:02 Welcome! 00:00:04 Usually, our December program 00:00:06 features the Gilead graduation program 00:00:09 held in September of each year. 00:00:12 However, the 149th class of Gilead 00:00:16 was scheduled to arrive in the United States 00:00:19 when the COVID-19 pandemic was underway. 00:00:23 Therefore, that class was postponed. 00:00:28 So this month, we’ll focus on being 00:00:30 the best Bible teachers we can be! 00:00:35 Here are a few highlights: 00:00:37 Cecilio and Schera made many sacrifices 00:00:41 to help their students become 00:00:43 dedicated worshippers of Jehovah. 00:00:46 We’ll see the impact 00:00:48 they had on Mercedes and Abel. 00:00:52 The arrival of a baby brings 00:00:54 great joy as well as new challenges. 00:00:59 We’ll learn how Jehovah helps 00:01:01 first-time parents adjust to their new responsibilities. 00:01:07 And we’ll learn how Louise Blanton’s parents 00:01:09 prepared her for a satisfying life 00:01:12 in Jehovah’s service. 00:01:16 This is JW Broadcasting® 00:01:18 for December 2020! 00:01:40 My comments this month 00:01:42 are drawn from 1 Corinthians 3:10: 00:01:46 “Let each one keep watching 00:01:48 how he is building.” 00:01:50 Building 00:01:52 —are we talking about the upcoming construction 00:01:55 of a facility for headquarters departments in Ramapo, New York? 00:02:00 Or are we referring to the building of new Kingdom Halls in your country? 00:02:06 Well, as important as those building projects are, 00:02:10 my comments are directed to an even more important building work. 00:02:17 Let’s look at the context 00:02:19 at 1 Corinthians 3:5. 00:02:25 Apollos and Paul are mentioned by name. 00:02:28 And what was their specific role identified to be? 00:02:32 Verse 5 says 00:02:34 “ministers through whom you became believers.” 00:02:39 Apollos and Paul had taught the Scriptures to many in Corinth. 00:02:44 In verses 6 through 9, 00:02:46 Paul likens this teaching activity to the planting of a field. 00:02:51 Seeds of truth are planted in the heart of a person. 00:02:55 By means of return visits and Bible studies, 00:02:59 the seeds are watered. 00:03:01 But if the person is receptive, 00:03:04 then with Jehovah’s spirit and blessing, 00:03:07 the truth will blossom 00:03:10 and grow to the point of dedication and baptism. 00:03:15 Did you notice in verse 9 00:03:18 that Bible teachers are described as “God’s fellow workers”? 00:03:24 What an awesome privilege we have to assist Jehovah 00:03:28 in gathering “the precious things of all the nations”! 00:03:35 So we now know the topic of these verses 00:03:38 in 1 Corinthians chapter 3. 00:03:41 It’s discussing Bible teachers 00:03:43 who help others to become believers. 00:03:47 But did you also notice that in verse 9, 00:03:51 Paul changes illustrations? 00:03:54 He said: “You are God’s field under cultivation” 00:03:59 —that’s agricultural. 00:04:01 But then he changes the analogy, 00:04:03 saying “God’s building” 00:04:07 —that’s architectural; that’s construction. 00:04:12 Why the change in illustrations? 00:04:15 The building analogy highlights a specific point. 00:04:20 You see, the illustration of the farmer 00:04:23 doesn’t focus on the farmer’s impact on the growth of a plant. 00:04:28 In that illustration, the farmer waters the seedling, 00:04:32 but it’s God that makes the plant grow. 00:04:37 However, the illustration of building, or construction, 00:04:42 focuses on the builder’s involvement, 00:04:45 or the Bible teacher’s involvement. 00:04:49 The one constructing a building has considerable influence 00:04:53 over the quality of the end product. 00:04:56 What kind of materials does he select? 00:05:00 Is he thorough in his work, 00:05:03 or does he cut corners to get the job done faster 00:05:06 or with less effort? 00:05:10 Now let’s read the 10th verse 00:05:12 of 1 Corinthians chapter 3: 00:05:16 “According to the undeserved kindness of God that was given to me, 00:05:21 “I laid a foundation as a skilled master builder, 00:05:26 “but someone else is building on it. 00:05:28 “But let each one keep watching 00:05:31 how he is building on it.” 00:05:34 There in Corinth, Paul, as a “master builder,” 00:05:38 had initially acquainted many with the truth. 00:05:42 In effect, he “laid a foundation” 00:05:45 for others to build on. 00:05:48 But what was that foundation? 00:05:50 Verse 11 says: 00:05:52 “For no one can lay any other foundation 00:05:57 “than what is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 00:06:02 Paul had helped establish the congregation there in Corinth 00:06:06 based on the teachings of Jesus, 00:06:09 the foundation of the truth. 00:06:12 Building on that foundation, 00:06:15 others would become Bible teachers 00:06:18 and help still others to progress toward baptism. 00:06:22 That is why Paul cautioned in verse 10 00:06:25 to “keep watching how” we build. 00:06:29 We can affect the outcome. 00:06:32 So to all of us Bible teachers, including parents, 00:06:37 we ask the question, 00:06:39 How are we building on the foundation? 00:06:44 Why does it really matter? 00:06:47 Let’s read verses 12 and 13: 00:06:51 “Now if anyone builds on the foundation 00:06:55 “gold, silver, precious stones, 00:06:58 “wood, hay, or straw, 00:07:00 “each one’s work will be shown for what it is, 00:07:03 “for the day will show it up, 00:07:06 “because it will be revealed by means of fire, 00:07:09 “and the fire itself will prove 00:07:12 what sort of work each one has built.” 00:07:16 Do we understand how important it is 00:07:19 to analyze our teaching techniques? 00:07:23 Will we use the best techniques possible 00:07:27 to reach our student’s or our child’s heart? 00:07:31 Or do we just try to get by with the bare essentials, 00:07:34 in effect, a halfhearted effort, 00:07:38 using hay or straw, as it were? 00:07:43 Some years ago in one developing country 00:07:46 during an economic boom, 00:07:48 it became a priority 00:07:50 to build more and more schools. 00:07:54 Unfortunately, building requirements and materials 00:07:59 were substandard. 00:08:01 Well, what happened when a 7.9-magnitude earthquake 00:08:06 hit one of the areas? 00:08:08 Many schools in the earthquake zone crumbled 00:08:13 while buildings around them remained standing. 00:08:18 An official report indicated 00:08:20 that over 5,000 students died. 00:08:25 Think about it. 00:08:27 Prior to the earthquake, schools were in session 00:08:31 and everything seemed fine. 00:08:33 Students and faculty 00:08:35 were coming and going on a daily basis. 00:08:39 But the unforeseen earthquake proved 00:08:43 that the building methods used 00:08:45 were not of the quality needed to prevent collapse 00:08:49 and terrible carnage. 00:08:53 First Corinthians 3:13 makes clear 00:08:58 that how we build spiritually when teaching Bible students 00:09:02 or our children 00:09:04 is just as important. 00:09:08 Now notice the sobering point 00:09:12 made in verses 14 and 15: 00:09:18 “If anyone’s work that he has built on it remains, 00:09:22 “he will receive a reward; 00:09:25 “if anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, 00:09:30 “but he himself will be saved; 00:09:32 yet, if so, it will be as through fire.” 00:09:37 The point in verse 14 is that if we’re conscientious 00:09:42 and reach the hearts of our Bible students, 00:09:45 that may be what gives them the needed fortitude 00:09:48 to withstand unexpected trials. 00:09:52 In that case, our diligent work “remains.” 00:09:56 Then verse 15 makes the point 00:09:58 that if our teaching techniques were inconsistent 00:10:03 or were in some way slipshod, 00:10:06 our student may not successfully weather a “fire,” 00:10:10 or stormy trial in his life. 00:10:14 We personally may survive, 00:10:17 but we might suffer the loss of the one we studied with, 00:10:21 whether a Bible student 00:10:23 or our own child. 00:10:26 That’s why Paul is highlighting the need 00:10:29 to be the best Bible teacher 00:10:32 we personally can be. 00:10:36 However, we should mention 00:10:39 that if a person who progresses to dedication and baptism 00:10:44 later leaves the truth, 00:10:47 it’s not necessarily the responsibility of the Bible teacher. 00:10:52 The teacher may have been very diligent 00:10:55 and used the best of spiritual building materials. 00:11:00 But the student or child may not have responded from his heart. 00:11:05 Or possibly he allowed human imperfection or temptation 00:11:10 to cause him to deviate from the way. 00:11:14 But the takeaway point from 1 Corinthians chapter 3 00:11:19 is to do our best to build in our students or children 00:11:24 fire-resistant materials. 00:11:27 We want them to remain 00:11:30 —to endure the tests that are sure to come their way. 00:11:35 What might be likened to building with inferior materials 00:11:39 when studying the Bible with someone? 00:11:42 Possibly, we initially aroused a person’s interest 00:11:46 by telling him about the hope of everlasting life in Paradise. 00:11:51 That’s indeed Scriptural. 00:11:53 But is that in itself building in such a way 00:11:56 that the person will survive 00:11:58 a fiery trial of faith in the future? 00:12:04 What if our teaching consisted solely of saying, 00:12:08 “If you want to live forever in Paradise, 00:12:10 “you must study, go to the meetings, 00:12:14 and share in the preaching work”? 00:12:17 If so, we are not building 00:12:20 in a way to ensure 00:12:22 that the student or child 00:12:25 will resist the fire of trials 00:12:28 or stand the test of time. 00:12:31 In effect, we’re using wood, hay, or straw. 00:12:38 Do you remember that Paul said we are to build “on the foundation”? 00:12:43 He said the foundation “is Jesus Christ.” 00:12:46 That is solid. 00:12:50 Ephesians 3:16, 17 00:12:55 help us to understand what it means 00:12:58 to build with quality materials 00:13:00 such as gold, silver, and precious stones. 00:13:05 In verse 16, it makes clear that there’s a way 00:13:10 that we can “be made mighty in the [person we] are inside.” 00:13:17 Let’s read verse 17: 00:13:19 “And that through your faith 00:13:21 “you may have the Christ dwell in your hearts with love. 00:13:25 May you be rooted and established on the foundation.” 00:13:31 How can we help our child or Bible student 00:13:34 become strong, or mighty, spiritually? 00:13:38 Interestingly, verse 17 said 00:13:41 that it’s by having “the Christ dwell in your hearts,” 00:13:46 not just knowing Jesus in the head 00:13:49 but sounding his teachings and personality down 00:13:53 into our student’s heart. 00:13:56 It means to know Jesus so well 00:14:00 that it’s as if he lives, or dwells, inside of us 00:14:04 and motivates us as Christians. 00:14:08 The result? 00:14:10 Verse 17 concluded by saying 00:14:12 that the student would become 00:14:14 “rooted and established on the foundation.” 00:14:18 Yes, solidly grounded 00:14:21 on Jesus Christ. 00:14:24 And Hebrews 1:3 00:14:26 says that “[Jesus] is the reflection of God’s glory 00:14:29 and the exact representation of his very being.” 00:14:34 Jesus himself said: 00:14:37 “No one comes to the Father except through me.” 00:14:41 So building with fire-resistant materials means 00:14:45 helping the student to love Jesus, yes, 00:14:48 but also to have a close, loving relationship 00:14:52 with Jehovah God himself. 00:14:56 But why are we considering the theme 00:14:59 ‘Keep Watching How You Are Building’ now? 00:15:03 Why is this more urgent than ever before? 00:15:09 It’s because all indications, 00:15:12 Scripturally and circumstantially, 00:15:15 point to Satan’s evil system of things coming to an abrupt end. 00:15:21 The physical indications of Matthew chapter 24 00:15:26 and the bizarre temperament described 00:15:28 at 2 Timothy 3:1-5 00:15:31 become more and more precise 00:15:35 as we watch “the scene of this world” unfold. 00:15:40 We can expect even more opposition and persecution 00:15:44 from those who are opposed to our resolve 00:15:48 to stand on the side of Jehovah. 00:15:51 Our brothers in Russia and other lands 00:15:54 are experiencing this now. 00:15:58 Some have been beaten 00:16:00 and brutalized in other ways. 00:16:02 As we’ve heard, 00:16:05 others have been sentenced to years in prison. 00:16:09 In recent years, the organization has reminded us of what we can expect 00:16:14 as the great tribulation begins. 00:16:19 Do you remember this video clip 00:16:21 from the Pursue What Builds Loyalty video series 00:16:25 shown at the 2016 regional convention? 00:16:29 Be reminded. 00:16:33 And your faith has led you here 00:16:37 as loyal servants of Jehovah, 00:16:40 confident that Psalm 97:10 00:16:44 applies to you personally: 00:16:47 “[Jehovah] is guarding the lives of his loyal ones.” 00:17:02 Where are they? 00:17:06 Try the basement! 00:17:13 Check that door! 00:17:55 That video series has been affectionately called 00:17:59 the basement video. 00:18:02 It was depicting one possible scenario 00:18:05 that could be considered a “fire” 00:18:07 according to 1 Corinthians 3:13. 00:18:11 The serious question we want to ask ourselves is, 00:18:15 ‘Would my Bible student or child 00:18:18 be in the basement with those other faithful brothers and sisters?’ 00:18:24 If not, would the reason be 00:18:27 because of his own lack of faith? 00:18:30 Or might it, at least in part, be 00:18:33 because we did not take our responsibility as a teacher 00:18:38 seriously enough? 00:18:41 Did we build with fire-resistant materials 00:18:45 or, in effect, with hay or straw? 00:18:50 The same verse said: 00:18:52 “For the day will show it up . . . 00:18:56 “the fire itself will prove 00:18:58 what sort of work each one has built.” 00:19:01 It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? 00:19:05 If you recall in the May 2020 00:19:08 JW Broadcasting® monthly program, 00:19:11 Brother Lett addressed the concern a few parents have expressed 00:19:15 about some of our videos that depict 00:19:17 Biblical or modern-day situations. 00:19:21 In these, at times, true worshippers are depicted 00:19:24 as having their faith tested 00:19:27 as if by fire. 00:19:29 The concern expressed is that some scenes 00:19:33 could have an effect on children 00:19:35 who’ve been protected from all negative circumstances on TV, 00:19:40 including daily news reports of catastrophes 00:19:44 being faced by real people. 00:19:47 The basement scene we just reviewed 00:19:50 was one of our videos 00:19:52 that produced such a reaction. 00:19:56 Another one was the reenactment of the Bible account 00:19:59 depicting Jehovah’s saving acts in the time of King Hezekiah. 00:20:04 It was shown at the 2016 regional convention, 00:20:08 and the video is entitled 00:20:10 “O Jehovah, . . . I Trust in You.” 00:20:14 Let’s look again at that portrayal of Jehovah’s saving acts. 00:20:38 My lord! 00:20:44 If a parent has shielded his child 00:20:47 from viewing all scenes on the news 00:20:50 or other visual images depicting negative realities, 00:20:55 it’s understandable that there may be a concern. 00:21:00 However, as Brother Lett stated: 00:21:04 ‘Parents need to give their children a realistic idea 00:21:08 ‘of what we will face in the near future. 00:21:13 ‘Many parents choose to help their children appreciate 00:21:17 ‘the graphic visual imagery of a Bible-based account 00:21:21 ‘while at the same time building trust in Jehovah, 00:21:25 who will be with them in times of distress.’ 00:21:28 The point is, friends, 00:21:30 the Bible warns us, young and old alike, 00:21:33 that a time of fiery testing looms on the horizon. 00:21:38 We want to be realistic and face these events 00:21:41 with faith and courage. 00:21:44 Our videos depict such circumstances 00:21:48 in a tasteful and sanitized way, 00:21:51 not showing any actual acts of bloodshed or violence. 00:21:57 Be assured that the Governing Body 00:22:00 is not trying to scare anyone. 00:22:04 Instead, we are trying 00:22:07 to prepare everyone. 00:22:10 We feel responsible to fortify the brotherhood 00:22:13 by using fire-resistant building materials 00:22:17 in the spirit of 1 Corinthians chapter 3. 00:22:21 As teachers of the Word of God, 00:22:24 may we all give prayerful thought to the methods, 00:22:28 techniques, and the diligence we display 00:22:32 when conducting Bible studies. 00:22:35 We’re motivated by the very spirit of Jehovah God. 00:22:40 The words at 2 Peter 3:9 come to mind. 00:22:44 Of Jehovah, it says: 00:22:46 “He does not desire anyone to be destroyed 00:22:51 but desires all to attain to repentance.” 00:22:56 May that be our resolve 00:22:58 as we take to heart the inspired words of 1 Corinthians 3:10: 00:23:03 “Let each one keep watching how he is building”! 00:23:09 Having children is one of the greatest joys in life 00:23:14 and one of the greatest responsibilities 00:23:17 Jehovah entrusts to a husband and wife. 00:23:20 In the following dramatization, 00:23:22 notice how the arrival of a baby changes a marriage 00:23:26 and how Jehovah helps first-time parents. 00:23:35 Jehovah has been so good to us. 00:23:47 We enjoy a busy life full of blessings . . . 00:23:57 . . . including one we didn’t expect. 00:24:13 We love our little Emma so much! 00:24:23 But child-rearing was harder than we thought. 00:24:49 Most days went well 00:24:56 —others, not so much. 00:25:05 I just need some rest. 00:25:09 When will things be back to normal? 00:25:12 I wake with every little cry! 00:25:16 I wake when she’s silent. 00:25:19 Am I doing this right? 00:25:23 I should check on them. 00:25:27 Any time to ourselves was time to do nothing. 00:25:30 Fatigue was affecting our relationship with Jehovah . . . 00:25:36 . . . and each other. 00:25:52 We were so relieved when David, a father himself, 00:25:56 offered to visit with another elder. 00:26:02 We read Isaiah 40:29: 00:26:06 “He gives power to the tired one 00:26:09 and full might to those lacking strength.” 00:26:14 As a loving Father, 00:26:17 Jehovah wants parents to succeed. 00:26:19 So he gives us what we need to recharge us. 00:26:24 Things might never be like they were before. 00:26:26 But his suggestions helped us create 00:26:28 a practical and consistent spiritual routine. 00:26:32 David said it’s normal for new parents to feel anxious, 00:26:36 and anxiety is tiring. 00:26:39 So we pray for a calm heart . . . 00:26:42 . . . and extra kindness when tired, 00:26:46 so we can keep working as a team. 00:26:59 I so appreciate Zack’s help. 00:27:06 And I’m sacrificing some unnecessary things 00:27:11 to put spiritual things first. 00:27:24 There will always be a lot to do. 00:27:30 But when Emma sleeps, 00:27:34 I feed my faith 00:27:38 and rest. 00:27:44 Our new spiritual routine is invigorating. 00:28:05 Hey, Daddy! 00:28:06 Look! 00:28:08 Hey. 00:28:17 Jehovah helped us to understand. 00:28:20 While life in this system may have many challenges, 00:28:23 putting spiritual things first 00:28:26 will give us the strength to meet them. 00:28:33 That new father wanted life to get “back to normal.” 00:28:38 But all parents realize 00:28:41 that having children creates a “new normal.” 00:28:46 If you are first-time parents, please remember, 00:28:50 one of the most important adjustments you’ll make 00:28:53 is to establish a new spiritual routine 00:28:57 for yourselves and your precious little child. 00:29:03 Of course, children grow, 00:29:06 and when they cross into their teenage years, 00:29:09 suddenly, everything seems to change. 00:29:12 In the following video, notice how Rudy and Nenita Garcia 00:29:17 were determined to teach their daughters Jehovah’s ways 00:29:21 and the results they experienced. 00:29:25 We already had our firstborn, Renita. 00:29:28 And then I was told that we were going to have twins. 00:29:31 We were new in the truth and inexperienced. 00:29:34 So I was saying to myself: 00:29:37 ‘How can I take care of my children, not only physically but more so spiritually? 00:29:41 ‘How will I be able to teach them to love Jehovah, 00:29:45 to worship Jehovah?’ 00:29:47 And 1 Corinthians 3:10 00:29:50 shows us the importance 00:29:52 of raising a family 00:29:54 by using good quality materials. 00:29:57 So having a spiritual routine is very important for the children. 00:30:02 My wife and I would have to lay a good spiritual foundation. 00:30:07 We would have to set a good example for our children. 00:30:12 As long as I could remember, I would always see my parents studying, 00:30:16 doing personal Bible study. 00:30:18 I remember Dad—one time, he came to us in the living room, 00:30:22 and he said, “You know, I was reading Psalm 1:2, 00:30:26 “where it said we should find ‘delight in the law of Jehovah 00:30:29 and read in an undertone day and night.’” 00:30:32 He said, “What if we do this as a family project, 00:30:35 like, we read the Bible every day out loud together?” 00:30:40 And my parents were very simple, you know. 00:30:42 They didn’t require a lot of fancy things. 00:30:46 They were content. 00:30:47 Mom and Dad always worked part-time. 00:30:50 Dad pioneered, so money was limited. 00:30:54 Sometimes the car we had wasn’t the most reliable, 00:30:58 and it would break down right before the meeting. 00:31:00 I remember when our car broke down. 00:31:02 Initially I thought, ‘Oh, we’re not going to go to the meeting.’ 00:31:06 Mom and Dad would say: “Well, the car broke down. 00:31:09 There’s a meeting tonight, so let’s walk.” 00:31:12 So there are the five of us —my dad in his suit, 00:31:16 the four women would be in our dresses with our book bags. 00:31:19 And so that taught me not to let obstacles 00:31:22 and anxieties prevent me from going to my meetings. 00:31:26 Spending quality time was very important to my parents, 00:31:31 especially after the meetings. 00:31:33 We would change into our pajamas, grab a snack, 00:31:36 go to the living room, and just start talking 00:31:39 about how our day went and how the meeting went. 00:31:46 Just those special moments 00:31:48 —they brought us closer together. 00:31:51 I saw that Dad, 00:31:54 no matter how busy he was, 00:31:56 would drop what he was doing and look at me and talk. 00:32:01 I knew I was more important to him than what he was doing. 00:32:05 I remember a time when I had a crush on a boy. 00:32:09 My parents reasoned with me. 00:32:11 I felt very comfortable, you know, after that point, to maybe talk 00:32:15 about other things because I could see that my parents 00:32:18 were not going to be angry at me. 00:32:21 You know, they were going to listen to me and what I was feeling. 00:32:24 One of the blessings that Mom and Dad gave me 00:32:28 was teaching me how to think 00:32:31 and meditate on scriptures. 00:32:34 They encouraged us to set full-time service, 00:32:38 or pioneering, as a goal. 00:32:40 We all worked part-time, me and my siblings. 00:32:44 And I remember one close family friend 00:32:48 said to me: “You know, your parents are getting older. 00:32:52 “You know, you’re their daughter, and you should probably work full-time. 00:32:57 That way they’d have more of an easy life.” 00:33:00 After that sister’s conversation, I almost gave up 00:33:03 on pioneering, but I knew deep down 00:33:07 that my parents would not be happy about that. 00:33:10 They wanted us to spend our youth serving Jehovah. 00:33:14 My husband and I were invited to attend 00:33:19 the 145th class of Gilead, and that was like a dream come true. 00:33:23 I have to thank my parents for that 00:33:26 because they always supported me through the years. 00:33:30 I couldn’t have done it without them, 00:33:32 and for that I’ll be forever grateful. 00:33:35 I really do thank my parents 00:33:38 for the upbringing that they gave me. 00:33:41 I have a very happy life. 00:33:43 I’m thankful that I was able 00:33:45 to avoid a lot of heartache, 00:33:48 and that’s because my parents raised me 00:33:52 in the truth and in Jehovah’s way. 00:33:54 Children are born imitators, 00:33:57 and they’re going to imitate our example. 00:34:01 I want to thank Jehovah for what our family is now. 00:34:06 To see all of us in the pioneer work 00:34:11 —all five of us are pioneering— thank you, Jehovah. 00:34:17 Raising three daughters 00:34:19 took years of work and sacrifice. 00:34:23 But Rudy and Nenita are joyful, 00:34:26 knowing their daughters are happily serving Jehovah full-time. 00:34:32 Likewise, if we build in our children 00:34:35 fire-resistant materials, 00:34:38 then we give them everything they need 00:34:40 to make wise decisions themselves. 00:34:44 This was the case for Louise Blanton. 00:34:48 Notice how her parents’ building techniques 00:34:52 helped her to choose a fulfilling life. 00:34:58 My family started studying with Witnesses in New Jersey. 00:35:03 My parents had been very diligent in helping us to appreciate 00:35:06 not only Bible principles 00:35:09 but also characters in the Bible 00:35:11 who could be a role model for us. 00:35:15 It helped us to know that Jehovah cared 00:35:18 not only for adult publishers 00:35:22 but also for the children 00:35:24 that were serving him. 00:35:27 When you went out in the ministry, 00:35:30 it became such a common thing 00:35:34 —the police would come and pick you up. 00:35:36 If they couldn’t track down the parents, they would put the children in jail, 00:35:41 knowing that eventually the parents would have to come looking for them. 00:35:46 The police would use scare tactics. 00:35:49 They’d say: “There are rats in the cell. 00:35:53 Is that where you want to be?” 00:35:55 —anything to make you fearful, 00:35:58 to intimidate you to tell them where your parents were. 00:36:03 They’d put us in the jail, 00:36:05 and in order to build our faith, we would sing. 00:36:09 We didn’t have Kingdom melodies back then, 00:36:12 so we used to make up songs, 00:36:15 and that would keep us focused 00:36:18 on what we were doing there. 00:36:21 After I reached the age of 18, 00:36:24 my parents were agreeable to my accepting an assignment. 00:36:28 And in those years, 00:36:30 because of the racial issue in the south, 00:36:35 there were so many areas in the south 00:36:38 where they didn’t have Kingdom Halls 00:36:41 that the colored could attend. 00:36:43 So if you were free and you would accept an assignment, 00:36:48 the Society usually sent you to the south. 00:36:52 My parents were both born in the south, 00:36:55 so they were able to tell us what to expect 00:37:00 to keep the culture shock from being so great. 00:37:04 I was assigned to pioneer in Andalusia, Alabama. 00:37:09 Based on all of the matters that pertain 00:37:14 to integration and segregation, 00:37:17 this was a hotbed 00:37:20 for testing those issues. 00:37:24 And so I was concerned 00:37:27 about whether I had the fiber 00:37:30 to work under those circumstances. 00:37:36 The field was wide open. 00:37:38 There were so many in the area 00:37:40 that had no knowledge of Jehovah’s Witnesses 00:37:44 and were very receptive to the message. 00:37:47 That part of our ministry was very rewarding. 00:37:52 We had some very strong 00:37:56 and helpful brothers 00:37:59 that Jehovah was using 00:38:02 to get his people 00:38:07 —no matter what color— 00:38:09 to appreciate Him and his purpose. 00:38:13 When you focused on these things 00:38:16 —the suggestions and the ideas— 00:38:18 the brothers would help you to appreciate 00:38:20 how to deal with the issues. 00:38:23 They taught us, for one thing, 00:38:26 that the whole purpose of the Ku Klux Klan 00:38:29 is to intimidate. 00:38:32 They feel that if they frighten you enough, 00:38:35 you will leave. 00:38:37 Satan has always used 00:38:40 methods to try to intimidate. 00:38:43 But we would make it a practice to stay, to hold our place. 00:38:47 When we were in street work, we’d stay right there. 00:38:51 And of course, as they passed, 00:38:53 they had their remarks to make, 00:38:56 but we just stood there. 00:38:58 When I think back on my youth, 00:39:02 there isn’t anything that I was able to participate in 00:39:05 that I came to regret. 00:39:07 There were always blessings that went along with it. 00:39:10 If you make yourself available, 00:39:13 Jehovah will use you. 00:39:16 Jehovah is always there as a support. 00:39:20 There isn’t anything that he directs his organization to do 00:39:26 that doesn’t receive his support. 00:39:30 So if we are challenged with a new assignment 00:39:33 or if we feel inadequate about it, 00:39:38 if we look to Jehovah 00:39:41 —with Jehovah, you can’t fail. 00:39:45 Louise’s parents taught her to appreciate principles 00:39:49 and characters in the Bible. 00:39:52 That reached her heart 00:39:54 and aided Louise to endure difficult trials. 00:39:59 She has now spent over 50 years 00:40:01 of her life in the full-time service, 00:40:04 including over 40 years in Bethel service. 00:40:09 Hard work and sacrifice 00:40:12 may also be needed to help our Bible students 00:40:15 to become disciples. 00:40:17 We’ll see that in our next video. 00:40:25 A teacher should always help his or her student 00:40:28 to develop love for Jehovah. 00:40:32 That’s the best foundation to build on. 00:40:36 For me, it’s important that they see Jehovah 00:40:39 as a real Person. 00:40:41 In order to help them build a good foundation, they need to know 00:40:45 that Jehovah gave us the Bible so that we can receive his guidance 00:40:49 for the future and for eternity. 00:40:54 I’m so thankful for my Bible teacher. 00:40:56 She always helped me see Jehovah’s point of view 00:40:59 on things from the Bible. 00:41:03 I’ll never stop thanking Jehovah 00:41:05 for what he’s done for me. 00:41:07 He drew me to the truth. 00:41:09 He gave me a teacher that didn’t just teach me about the Bible, 00:41:13 but by his example, the brother taught me 00:41:15 how to really be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:41:20 When I started studying, 00:41:22 my parents told me that they didn’t consider me their daughter anymore. 00:41:28 During the study, my teacher helped 00:41:31 me see from the Bible that Jehovah had a lot of really good things in store for me. 00:41:43 My environment was very hostile before. 00:41:48 My problem was that my wife and I argued a lot, 00:41:51 and I had a bad temper. 00:41:55 The brother’s advice really helped us to keep calm when we had problems. 00:42:03 When a person starts getting to know Jehovah and they learn 00:42:07 and apply Bible truths in their lives, 00:42:10 the people who were their friends before are going to disappear. 00:42:15 We need to give them that friendship they’re losing. 00:42:22 We’ve had to make some sacrifices for our students. 00:42:26 But when we think about the blessings, 00:42:28 we can barely remember the sacrifices. 00:42:32 I worked full-time, 00:42:36 but I had to adapt to the student’s needs, 00:42:38 not the other way around. 00:42:41 Sometimes I’d be up at six o’clock in the morning 00:42:43 conducting a Bible study. 00:42:45 Sometimes things come up, and you can’t make it. 00:42:48 But the study should still happen. 00:42:51 Another brother can study with them if we’re not going to be there. 00:42:55 When someone starts studying, it can feel like a lot. 00:42:59 The Bible itself has 66 books. 00:43:02 So for example, you can suggest that the student start reading 00:43:06 a few verses every day 00:43:08 and then add a little more every week. 00:43:10 So that is how we see them progress. 00:43:13 You get to see them practice what they’re learning 00:43:16 —really following the Bible’s counsel in their lives. 00:43:20 We don’t just conduct a study, 00:43:22 see them progress, get baptized, 00:43:24 and then say, “OK, see you later.” 00:43:26 It doesn’t work like that. They become part of our life. 00:43:33 He’s been my friend since before I got baptized. 00:43:35 It’s been about 28 years now. 00:43:38 Years ago, my former student Abel had a really difficult time. 00:43:42 His wife got sick. 00:43:45 Although we were far away when we heard about it, 00:43:48 we kept in touch with him. 00:43:53 “Thank you, Livingston family, 00:43:55 “for calling Jessica during these hard times. 00:43:59 It’s very encouraging to us.” 00:44:01 “I know that you love us, and we also love you very much. 00:44:06 “You are an example in true worship for us. 00:44:10 May Jehovah continue caring for you and blessing you.” 00:44:22 I got baptized 34 years ago 00:44:24 and have been pioneering for 33 years. 00:44:29 My Bible teacher was Schera. 00:44:32 She was diagnosed with cancer. 00:44:35 When I got sick, Jehovah used Mercedes to help me. 00:44:41 After all this time, since I helped 00:44:44 her learn the truth, now she comforts me. 00:44:48 It’s a father-son relationship. 00:44:51 At some point, 00:44:53 maybe this student will help me. 00:44:55 And we can say that ‘we are good-for-nothing slaves, 00:44:58 and we have done what we ought to have done.’ 00:45:02 And they keep loving and serving Jehovah. 00:45:04 What’s better than that? 00:45:12 To expand their ministry, 00:45:14 many of Jehovah’s Witnesses have learned a new language. 00:45:18 Have you? 00:45:20 Teaching someone the truth 00:45:22 in the language of their heart can be rewarding. 00:45:26 But learning to speak and think 00:45:28 in a new language can also be tough. 00:45:32 In a recent morning worship, 00:45:34 Brother William Malenfant offered some practical suggestions. 00:45:40 Usually, 00:45:41 the language that we learned 00:45:43 from infancy becomes 00:45:45 the language of the heart, 00:45:47 and we learn it at home. 00:45:50 In most cases, the dominant influence 00:45:53 in our life in connection with our language of the heart, 00:45:56 or the first language, is our mother. 00:45:59 And that’s precisely what took place 00:46:02 in Israel in the days of Nehemiah. 00:46:05 But the mothers in this case were pagans 00:46:07 sharing their language and probably their beliefs with their children. 00:46:12 And a lot of Jewish men —prominent Jewish men— 00:46:15 had married pagan women. 00:46:18 Let’s read the scripture together 00:46:20 at Nehemiah 13:23, 24 00:46:28 —Nehemiah 13:23, 24. 00:46:31 It says: “In those days I also saw Jews 00:46:35 “who had married Ashdodite, Ammonite, 00:46:38 “and Moabite women. 00:46:40 “Half of their sons were speaking Ashdodite 00:46:44 “and half spoke the language of the different peoples, 00:46:46 “but none of them 00:46:48 knew how to speak the language of the Jews.” 00:46:53 And as was stated, it’s very likely that those mothers 00:46:58 would be teaching the children 00:47:00 about their land, their culture, 00:47:02 their worship, and the pagan gods they worshipped. 00:47:05 And so the decision was made 00:47:08 by the Jews themselves, 00:47:10 when they were counseled and given direction 00:47:13 from Ezra and from Nehemiah, 00:47:15 to send those wives away along with the children. 00:47:20 And that’s an interesting thing. 00:47:21 It must have been a bit difficult 00:47:23 for some husbands to see their children sent away. 00:47:26 But all they knew were the languages of the pagan wives 00:47:30 —nothing about Hebrew and the worship of Jehovah God. 00:47:33 And the problem was that they were sent away to keep the Jews 00:47:36 from losing their identity by a gradual assimilation into the cultures 00:47:41 and the religions of the surrounding nations that those wives belonged to. 00:47:47 In Nehemiah’s day, speaking Hebrew was vital, 00:47:51 and we’re grateful it’s not necessary today. 00:47:54 We all don’t have to learn Hebrew. 00:47:56 But in his wisdom, Jehovah invites people who speak any language 00:48:01 to learn the “pure language,” the truth about him and his purposes. 00:48:06 And, you know, it’s a bit like the opposite 00:48:09 of what took place at the Tower of Babel, 00:48:11 where Jehovah intervened and confused the builders of the Tower of Babel, 00:48:16 imposing upon them different languages, including different ways of thinking. 00:48:20 And so they went off disorganized and separated from one another. 00:48:25 And today, we have people from all over the world 00:48:28 who speak many, many different languages, 00:48:30 but in Jehovah’s wisdom, 00:48:32 he’s bringing them all together 00:48:34 —those who love the truth and love him— in unity. 00:48:37 And this is what Zephaniah says —Zephaniah 3:9. 00:48:41 It speaks of the “pure language”: 00:48:44 “I shall give to peoples the change to a pure language, 00:48:49 in order for them all to call upon the name of Jehovah.” 00:48:52 And that’s what these people do who speak other languages. 00:48:55 We reach them with the truth, but then they’re unified 00:48:58 with Jehovah’s organization, 00:49:00 because it goes on to say “in order to serve him 00:49:03 shoulder to shoulder.” 00:49:05 So isn’t that interesting—the way Jehovah has used the “pure language” 00:49:10 to bring people of many diverse backgrounds 00:49:13 and languages together in his worship? 00:49:17 In our day, people of many different languages 00:49:19 are leaving their home countries to live elsewhere. 00:49:22 And it’s really quite amazing when you consider: 00:49:24 Large cities are filled with people 00:49:27 of different languages, and even in little villages, 00:49:30 we find people speaking different languages. 00:49:33 They need help to learn the truth 00:49:36 in the language of their heart. 00:49:42 It’s interesting to note how many Bethelites 00:49:44 have learned other languages in order to teach the truth to people. 00:49:49 In the United States Bethel, in our branch, 00:49:53 there are over 2,500 Bethelites 00:49:57 who are engaged 00:50:00 in 24 different language groups and congregations. 00:50:03 So a lot of Bethelites (and commuters are included in those numbers) 00:50:08 are doing a very fine work 00:50:10 in helping people in the territory to learn the truth. 00:50:13 And wouldn’t it be nice— I know some of us would love to learn some other languages 00:50:17 —wouldn’t it be lovely if we could learn the way a child does? 00:50:20 They just absorb it —no effort— 00:50:22 and they start speaking it. 00:50:24 A researcher, Dr. John Brierley, says this: 00:50:28 “‘Clearly the young brain seems 00:50:30 “to be programmed almost like a computer’ 00:50:33 “for language development. 00:50:35 “He notes that even ‘brain anatomy’ suggests 00:50:38 “‘that an infant is born 00:50:40 with a pre-programmed biological capacity to speak.’” 00:50:45 And then the comment in Awake! said 00:50:48 that it’s as though the brain is hardwired 00:50:50 to learn language. 00:50:52 I’m sorry to say that as the years go by, 00:50:56 the hardwiring starts to fray a bit in many of us. 00:51:02 But if we make the effort 00:51:06 and we do make a switch to a congregation where they speak the language 00:51:10 that you would like to learn, remember this: 00:51:14 Children can be a big help in the congregation 00:51:16 that you attend in a foreign language. 00:51:19 They can also be very startling and frank: 00:51:22 “You speak funny. 00:51:24 “Why can’t you pronounce that word properly? 00:51:27 It’s so easy.” 00:51:28 ‘Well, yes, to you it’s easy. 00:51:30 You were raised with it.’ 00:51:31 But that’s how kids are. 00:51:33 They don’t realize the difficulties we have 00:51:35 as we get older, with the grooves being so deep 00:51:38 and so thick in the brain with our original language 00:51:41 that it’s hard to get out of those grooves the vowels and consonants 00:51:44 that we’re not used to saying in a certain order. 00:51:49 Keep a sense of humor; listen to the kids. 00:51:53 They’ll help you. 00:51:54 And don’t be overly concerned 00:51:56 about speaking a new language without an accent. 00:52:01 Everybody has an accent one way or another. 00:52:04 Some are more agreeable than others, but everyone has that. 00:52:07 And some don’t want to admit it, but they really do. 00:52:10 They have an accent. 00:52:11 Even when we all speak the same language, you can tell where a person is from 00:52:15 —whether it’s east, north, west (whatever it may be), south. 00:52:19 There are accents or intonations in the way words are pronounced. 00:52:23 I remember, in years gone by, for missionaries 00:52:25 who were sent out into the field, 00:52:28 we had to follow a special program in learning a new language. 00:52:31 Your first month in your new assignment, 00:52:33 you had to study 11 hours a day 00:52:36 for 30 days your new language. 00:52:39 Well, you felt like you were in the Tower of Babel 00:52:42 on those occasions because it was very difficult. 00:52:44 The second month, you had to study your new language 00:52:47 four hours a day and be out preaching 130 hours. 00:52:50 Your third month was 150 hours in the field ministry, 00:52:54 and you’d study the language as you could. 00:52:57 For those who are striving to learn a new language, 00:53:00 here are a few suggestions I gleaned from the Awake! of March 2007 00:53:04 and the January issue of 2000. 00:53:08 There are four points: 00:53:10 (1) motivation, 00:53:12 (2) humility, 00:53:14 (3) patience, 00:53:16 (4) practice. 00:53:18 “Motivation. 00:53:20 You need an incentive —a reason to pursue your goal.” 00:53:23 Because if you have a high level of motivation, 00:53:26 you’re going to be more successful. 00:53:28 Well, we have the best motivation there is: 00:53:30 teach people the truth; praise our God, Jehovah; 00:53:33 build up the congregation we’ve chosen to attend. 00:53:37 What about humility? 00:53:39 Well, “don’t expect too much of yourself” when you start learning a new language. 00:53:44 “Mistakes are inevitable.” 00:53:46 And if you wait until you can speak it perfectly 00:53:49 before you start making comments or give a talk, 00:53:53 you may be waiting quite a while. 00:53:55 Be prepared, because it may not be 00:53:57 until after Armageddon that you achieve that goal. 00:54:00 So don’t be afraid to make mistakes and carry on with your new language. 00:54:05 ‘Patience. 00:54:07 ‘A brother stated: “For me, the first two years were difficult, 00:54:11 ‘and at times I felt like giving up.” 00:54:13 ‘Still, he acknowledges 00:54:15 that it does get easier as time goes by.’ 00:54:19 And it gets enjoyable. 00:54:21 And number four: “Practice. 00:54:23 “A regular routine will help you to become fluent in [your] new language. 00:54:28 “Try to practice every day, even if it’s for just a few minutes. 00:54:31 “[There’s an interesting saying] As one textbook puts it, 00:54:34 “‘“A little and often” 00:54:37 is preferable to “a lot but seldom.”’” 00:54:40 So be steady, 00:54:42 even for short periods of time, in practicing the new language. 00:54:47 Now, the fact is that most Bethelites in our branch 00:54:49 are serving in the English-language field, 00:54:52 and they are truly a blessing to their congregations. 00:54:56 The brothers are happy to have Bethelites who take the lead, 00:55:00 who give of themselves, and who work hard to build up the congregation. 00:55:04 So the decision to serve in an English congregation 00:55:07 or with a different language group is highly personal. 00:55:12 Whatever the decision may be, there’s a key factor 00:55:16 that we all have to keep in mind 00:55:18 to maintain our spirituality at a high level 00:55:21 and give our Bethel assignment our best. 00:55:25 And that key factor that we have to keep in mind 00:55:28 is to focus on the one language that counts the most 00:55:32 —the “pure language” that Jehovah God has given to his people. 00:55:38 As we noted earlier, 00:55:40 we can expect stormy tests 00:55:44 and trials to come our way. 00:55:46 But if we’ve built fire-resistant materials 00:55:50 in our children, our students, and ourselves 00:55:53 —we will stand firm. 00:55:56 We’ll see that in our beautiful new music video. 00:56:10 The first time I heard the word of truth 00:56:18 About Jehovah and a world that is new, 00:56:25 Love grew in my heart right up to this day. 00:56:33 But I know this world wants to pull me away. 00:56:43 I cannot lose sight. 00:56:51 I want to do what is right. 00:56:57 I’ll keep building my faith so I can be strong. 00:57:02 I will not give up or give in. 00:57:06 His Word as my guide I’ll follow each day. 00:57:10 I’ll pray to stand firm on the ground. 00:57:14 I’ll keep building my faith; I won’t stop now. 00:57:26 So we have to choose where we will stand: 00:57:34 A life built on rock or one built on sand. 00:57:41 This world around us wants us to believe 00:57:48 It will stand forever, so live and be free. 00:57:59 But we know the truth, 00:58:07 What the Kingdom will do. 00:58:12 Let’s keep building our faith so we can be strong. 00:58:17 We will not give up or give in. 00:58:21 His Word as our guide we’ll follow each day. 00:58:26 We’ll pray to stand firm on the ground. 00:58:29 Let’s keep building our faith; we won’t stop now. 00:58:50 Let’s keep building our faith so we can be strong. 00:58:55 We will not give up or give in. 00:58:58 His Word as our guide we’ll follow each day. 00:59:03 We’ll pray to stand firm on the ground. 00:59:07 Let’s keep building our faith; we won’t stop now. 00:59:15 We won’t stop now. 00:59:19 We won’t stop now. 00:59:33 What an encouraging song! 00:59:36 And to further help you stand firm against trials, 00:59:41 a new video will be released 00:59:43 later this month entitled 00:59:46 Firm Under Opposition. 00:59:49 This 10-minute video consists of segments 00:59:52 from two previous documentaries 00:59:55 that touched the hearts of many: 00:59:57 Jehovah’s Witnesses Stand Firm Against Nazi Assault 01:00:02 and Faithful Under Trials 01:00:05 —Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Soviet Union. 01:00:09 So please look for this video that combines the highlights 01:00:13 of the two previous programs. 01:00:16 It will strengthen 01:00:18 and help you remain faithful to Jehovah. 01:00:23 The theme of this month’s program was 01:00:26 “Let Each One Keep Watching How He Is Building.” 01:00:31 We saw how first-time parents 01:00:35 can successfully embrace their new responsibilities. 01:00:40 By setting a good example, Rudy and Nenita 01:00:43 helped their three daughters reach meaningful, spiritual goals. 01:00:48 Louise received fine training from her parents, 01:00:51 which has helped her to enjoy a fulfilling life. 01:00:58 Cecilio and Schera 01:00:59 made sacrifices to be effective 01:01:02 Bible teachers, and their efforts made 01:01:04 a real difference in the lives of their students. 01:01:10 Before we close, 01:01:12 let’s visit our brothers and sisters in Nigeria. 01:01:17 Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. 01:01:21 Its some 200 million people 01:01:23 speak over 500 languages. 01:01:26 More than 400,000 Jehovah’s Witnesses 01:01:29 live and preach there. 01:01:31 Many publishers come from other lands to share in the ministry. 01:01:36 The response to the good news is very encouraging. 01:01:40 More than 870,000 Bible studies 01:01:44 are conducted every month. 01:01:46 On average, about 40 people are baptized every day, 01:01:51 and seven new congregations 01:01:53 are formed every month. 01:01:56 This is the Obudu Ranch Congregation. 01:01:59 Their territory is beautiful, vast, and mountainous 01:02:04 —literally in the clouds. 01:02:06 Twenty-three publishers, 01:02:08 including two special pioneers, serve here. 01:02:12 To reach areas only accessible by foot, 01:02:16 the publishers sometimes walk for eight hours. 01:02:19 The terrain is challenging, but the long walk 01:02:23 provides opportunities for upbuilding association. 01:02:27 After working the territory, our brothers 01:02:29 stay overnight and walk back 01:02:32 another eight hours. 01:02:36 Our brothers and sisters in the Obudu Ranch Congregation 01:02:39 send their warm love and greetings! 01:02:43 From the World Headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 01:02:46 this is JW Broadcasting.
00:00:02 Welcome! 00:00:04 Usually, our December program 00:00:06 features the Gilead graduation program 00:00:09 held in September of each year. 00:00:12 However, the 149th class of Gilead 00:00:16 was scheduled to arrive in the United States 00:00:19 when the COVID-19 pandemic was underway. 00:00:23 Therefore, that class was postponed. 00:00:28 So this month, we’ll focus on being 00:00:30 the best Bible teachers we can be! 00:00:35 Here are a few highlights: 00:00:37 Cecilio and Schera made many sacrifices 00:00:41 to help their students become 00:00:43 dedicated worshippers of Jehovah. 00:00:46 We’ll see the impact 00:00:48 they had on Mercedes and Abel. 00:00:52 The arrival of a baby brings 00:00:54 great joy as well as new challenges. 00:00:59 We’ll learn how Jehovah helps 00:01:01 first-time parents adjust to their new responsibilities. 00:01:07 And we’ll learn how Louise Blanton’s parents 00:01:09 prepared her for a satisfying life 00:01:12 in Jehovah’s service. 00:01:16 This is JW Broadcasting® 00:01:18 for December 2020! 00:01:40 My comments this month 00:01:42 are drawn from 1 Corinthians 3:10: 00:01:46 “Let each one keep watching 00:01:48 how he is building.” 00:01:50 Building 00:01:52 —are we talking about the upcoming construction 00:01:55 of a facility for headquarters departments in Ramapo, New York? 00:02:00 Or are we referring to the building of new Kingdom Halls in your country? 00:02:06 Well, as important as those building projects are, 00:02:10 my comments are directed to an even more important building work. 00:02:17 Let’s look at the context 00:02:19 at 1 Corinthians 3:5. 00:02:25 Apollos and Paul are mentioned by name. 00:02:28 And what was their specific role identified to be? 00:02:32 Verse 5 says 00:02:34 “ministers through whom you became believers.” 00:02:39 Apollos and Paul had taught the Scriptures to many in Corinth. 00:02:44 In verses 6 through 9, 00:02:46 Paul likens this teaching activity to the planting of a field. 00:02:51 Seeds of truth are planted in the heart of a person. 00:02:55 By means of return visits and Bible studies, 00:02:59 the seeds are watered. 00:03:01 But if the person is receptive, 00:03:04 then with Jehovah’s spirit and blessing, 00:03:07 the truth will blossom 00:03:10 and grow to the point of dedication and baptism. 00:03:15 Did you notice in verse 9 00:03:18 that Bible teachers are described as “God’s fellow workers”? 00:03:24 What an awesome privilege we have to assist Jehovah 00:03:28 in gathering “the precious things of all the nations”! 00:03:35 So we now know the topic of these verses 00:03:38 in 1 Corinthians chapter 3. 00:03:41 It’s discussing Bible teachers 00:03:43 who help others to become believers. 00:03:47 But did you also notice that in verse 9, 00:03:51 Paul changes illustrations? 00:03:54 He said: “You are God’s field under cultivation” 00:03:59 —that’s agricultural. 00:04:01 But then he changes the analogy, 00:04:03 saying “God’s building” 00:04:07 —that’s architectural; that’s construction. 00:04:12 Why the change in illustrations? 00:04:15 The building analogy highlights a specific point. 00:04:20 You see, the illustration of the farmer 00:04:23 doesn’t focus on the farmer’s impact on the growth of a plant. 00:04:28 In that illustration, the farmer waters the seedling, 00:04:32 but it’s God that makes the plant grow. 00:04:37 However, the illustration of building, or construction, 00:04:42 focuses on the builder’s involvement, 00:04:45 or the Bible teacher’s involvement. 00:04:49 The one constructing a building has considerable influence 00:04:53 over the quality of the end product. 00:04:56 What kind of materials does he select? 00:05:00 Is he thorough in his work, 00:05:03 or does he cut corners to get the job done faster 00:05:06 or with less effort? 00:05:10 Now let’s read the 10th verse 00:05:12 of 1 Corinthians chapter 3: 00:05:16 “According to the undeserved kindness of God that was given to me, 00:05:21 “I laid a foundation as a skilled master builder, 00:05:26 “but someone else is building on it. 00:05:28 “But let each one keep watching 00:05:31 how he is building on it.” 00:05:34 There in Corinth, Paul, as a “master builder,” 00:05:38 had initially acquainted many with the truth. 00:05:42 In effect, he “laid a foundation” 00:05:45 for others to build on. 00:05:48 But what was that foundation? 00:05:50 Verse 11 says: 00:05:52 “For no one can lay any other foundation 00:05:57 “than what is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 00:06:02 Paul had helped establish the congregation there in Corinth 00:06:06 based on the teachings of Jesus, 00:06:09 the foundation of the truth. 00:06:12 Building on that foundation, 00:06:15 others would become Bible teachers 00:06:18 and help still others to progress toward baptism. 00:06:22 That is why Paul cautioned in verse 10 00:06:25 to “keep watching how” we build. 00:06:29 We can affect the outcome. 00:06:32 So to all of us Bible teachers, including parents, 00:06:37 we ask the question, 00:06:39 How are we building on the foundation? 00:06:44 Why does it really matter? 00:06:47 Let’s read verses 12 and 13: 00:06:51 “Now if anyone builds on the foundation 00:06:55 “gold, silver, precious stones, 00:06:58 “wood, hay, or straw, 00:07:00 “each one’s work will be shown for what it is, 00:07:03 “for the day will show it up, 00:07:06 “because it will be revealed by means of fire, 00:07:09 “and the fire itself will prove 00:07:12 what sort of work each one has built.” 00:07:16 Do we understand how important it is 00:07:19 to analyze our teaching techniques? 00:07:23 Will we use the best techniques possible 00:07:27 to reach our student’s or our child’s heart? 00:07:31 Or do we just try to get by with the bare essentials, 00:07:34 in effect, a halfhearted effort, 00:07:38 using hay or straw, as it were? 00:07:43 Some years ago in one developing country 00:07:46 during an economic boom, 00:07:48 it became a priority 00:07:50 to build more and more schools. 00:07:54 Unfortunately, building requirements and materials 00:07:59 were substandard. 00:08:01 Well, what happened when a 7.9-magnitude earthquake 00:08:06 hit one of the areas? 00:08:08 Many schools in the earthquake zone crumbled 00:08:13 while buildings around them remained standing. 00:08:18 An official report indicated 00:08:20 that over 5,000 students died. 00:08:25 Think about it. 00:08:27 Prior to the earthquake, schools were in session 00:08:31 and everything seemed fine. 00:08:33 Students and faculty 00:08:35 were coming and going on a daily basis. 00:08:39 But the unforeseen earthquake proved 00:08:43 that the building methods used 00:08:45 were not of the quality needed to prevent collapse 00:08:49 and terrible carnage. 00:08:53 First Corinthians 3:13 makes clear 00:08:58 that how we build spiritually when teaching Bible students 00:09:02 or our children 00:09:04 is just as important. 00:09:08 Now notice the sobering point 00:09:12 made in verses 14 and 15: 00:09:18 “If anyone’s work that he has built on it remains, 00:09:22 “he will receive a reward; 00:09:25 “if anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, 00:09:30 “but he himself will be saved; 00:09:32 yet, if so, it will be as through fire.” 00:09:37 The point in verse 14 is that if we’re conscientious 00:09:42 and reach the hearts of our Bible students, 00:09:45 that may be what gives them the needed fortitude 00:09:48 to withstand unexpected trials. 00:09:52 In that case, our diligent work “remains.” 00:09:56 Then verse 15 makes the point 00:09:58 that if our teaching techniques were inconsistent 00:10:03 or were in some way slipshod, 00:10:06 our student may not successfully weather a “fire,” 00:10:10 or stormy trial in his life. 00:10:14 We personally may survive, 00:10:17 but we might suffer the loss of the one we studied with, 00:10:21 whether a Bible student 00:10:23 or our own child. 00:10:26 That’s why Paul is highlighting the need 00:10:29 to be the best Bible teacher 00:10:32 we personally can be. 00:10:36 However, we should mention 00:10:39 that if a person who progresses to dedication and baptism 00:10:44 later leaves the truth, 00:10:47 it’s not necessarily the responsibility of the Bible teacher. 00:10:52 The teacher may have been very diligent 00:10:55 and used the best of spiritual building materials. 00:11:00 But the student or child may not have responded from his heart. 00:11:05 Or possibly he allowed human imperfection or temptation 00:11:10 to cause him to deviate from the way. 00:11:14 But the takeaway point from 1 Corinthians chapter 3 00:11:19 is to do our best to build in our students or children 00:11:24 fire-resistant materials. 00:11:27 We want them to remain 00:11:30 —to endure the tests that are sure to come their way. 00:11:35 What might be likened to building with inferior materials 00:11:39 when studying the Bible with someone? 00:11:42 Possibly, we initially aroused a person’s interest 00:11:46 by telling him about the hope of everlasting life in Paradise. 00:11:51 That’s indeed Scriptural. 00:11:53 But is that in itself building in such a way 00:11:56 that the person will survive 00:11:58 a fiery trial of faith in the future? 00:12:04 What if our teaching consisted solely of saying, 00:12:08 “If you want to live forever in Paradise, 00:12:10 “you must study, go to the meetings, 00:12:14 and share in the preaching work”? 00:12:17 If so, we are not building 00:12:20 in a way to ensure 00:12:22 that the student or child 00:12:25 will resist the fire of trials 00:12:28 or stand the test of time. 00:12:31 In effect, we’re using wood, hay, or straw. 00:12:38 Do you remember that Paul said we are to build “on the foundation”? 00:12:43 He said the foundation “is Jesus Christ.” 00:12:46 That is solid. 00:12:50 Ephesians 3:16, 17 00:12:55 help us to understand what it means 00:12:58 to build with quality materials 00:13:00 such as gold, silver, and precious stones. 00:13:05 In verse 16, it makes clear that there’s a way 00:13:10 that we can “be made mighty in the [person we] are inside.” 00:13:17 Let’s read verse 17: 00:13:19 “And that through your faith 00:13:21 “you may have the Christ dwell in your hearts with love. 00:13:25 May you be rooted and established on the foundation.” 00:13:31 How can we help our child or Bible student 00:13:34 become strong, or mighty, spiritually? 00:13:38 Interestingly, verse 17 said 00:13:41 that it’s by having “the Christ dwell in your hearts,” 00:13:46 not just knowing Jesus in the head 00:13:49 but sounding his teachings and personality down 00:13:53 into our student’s heart. 00:13:56 It means to know Jesus so well 00:14:00 that it’s as if he lives, or dwells, inside of us 00:14:04 and motivates us as Christians. 00:14:08 The result? 00:14:10 Verse 17 concluded by saying 00:14:12 that the student would become 00:14:14 “rooted and established on the foundation.” 00:14:18 Yes, solidly grounded 00:14:21 on Jesus Christ. 00:14:24 And Hebrews 1:3 00:14:26 says that “[Jesus] is the reflection of God’s glory 00:14:29 and the exact representation of his very being.” 00:14:34 Jesus himself said: 00:14:37 “No one comes to the Father except through me.” 00:14:41 So building with fire-resistant materials means 00:14:45 helping the student to love Jesus, yes, 00:14:48 but also to have a close, loving relationship 00:14:52 with Jehovah God himself. 00:14:56 But why are we considering the theme 00:14:59 ‘Keep Watching How You Are Building’ now? 00:15:03 Why is this more urgent than ever before? 00:15:09 It’s because all indications, 00:15:12 Scripturally and circumstantially, 00:15:15 point to Satan’s evil system of things coming to an abrupt end. 00:15:21 The physical indications of Matthew chapter 24 00:15:26 and the bizarre temperament described 00:15:28 at 2 Timothy 3:1-5 00:15:31 become more and more precise 00:15:35 as we watch “the scene of this world” unfold. 00:15:40 We can expect even more opposition and persecution 00:15:44 from those who are opposed to our resolve 00:15:48 to stand on the side of Jehovah. 00:15:51 Our brothers in Russia and other lands 00:15:54 are experiencing this now. 00:15:58 Some have been beaten 00:16:00 and brutalized in other ways. 00:16:02 As we’ve heard, 00:16:05 others have been sentenced to years in prison. 00:16:09 In recent years, the organization has reminded us of what we can expect 00:16:14 as the great tribulation begins. 00:16:19 Do you remember this video clip 00:16:21 from the Pursue What Builds Loyalty video series 00:16:25 shown at the 2016 regional convention? 00:16:29 Be reminded. 00:16:33 And your faith has led you here 00:16:37 as loyal servants of Jehovah, 00:16:40 confident that Psalm 97:10 00:16:44 applies to you personally: 00:16:47 “[Jehovah] is guarding the lives of his loyal ones.” 00:17:02 Where are they? 00:17:06 Try the basement! 00:17:13 Check that door! 00:17:55 That video series has been affectionately called 00:17:59 the basement video. 00:18:02 It was depicting one possible scenario 00:18:05 that could be considered a “fire” 00:18:07 according to 1 Corinthians 3:13. 00:18:11 The serious question we want to ask ourselves is, 00:18:15 ‘Would my Bible student or child 00:18:18 be in the basement with those other faithful brothers and sisters?’ 00:18:24 If not, would the reason be 00:18:27 because of his own lack of faith? 00:18:30 Or might it, at least in part, be 00:18:33 because we did not take our responsibility as a teacher 00:18:38 seriously enough? 00:18:41 Did we build with fire-resistant materials 00:18:45 or, in effect, with hay or straw? 00:18:50 The same verse said: 00:18:52 “For the day will show it up . . . 00:18:56 “the fire itself will prove 00:18:58 what sort of work each one has built.” 00:19:01 It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? 00:19:05 If you recall in the May 2020 00:19:08 JW Broadcasting® monthly program, 00:19:11 Brother Lett addressed the concern a few parents have expressed 00:19:15 about some of our videos that depict 00:19:17 Biblical or modern-day situations. 00:19:21 In these, at times, true worshippers are depicted 00:19:24 as having their faith tested 00:19:27 as if by fire. 00:19:29 The concern expressed is that some scenes 00:19:33 could have an effect on children 00:19:35 who’ve been protected from all negative circumstances on TV, 00:19:40 including daily news reports of catastrophes 00:19:44 being faced by real people. 00:19:47 The basement scene we just reviewed 00:19:50 was one of our videos 00:19:52 that produced such a reaction. 00:19:56 Another one was the reenactment of the Bible account 00:19:59 depicting Jehovah’s saving acts in the time of King Hezekiah. 00:20:04 It was shown at the 2016 regional convention, 00:20:08 and the video is entitled 00:20:10 “O Jehovah, . . . I Trust in You.” 00:20:14 Let’s look again at that portrayal of Jehovah’s saving acts. 00:20:38 My lord! 00:20:44 If a parent has shielded his child 00:20:47 from viewing all scenes on the news 00:20:50 or other visual images depicting negative realities, 00:20:55 it’s understandable that there may be a concern. 00:21:00 However, as Brother Lett stated: 00:21:04 ‘Parents need to give their children a realistic idea 00:21:08 ‘of what we will face in the near future. 00:21:13 ‘Many parents choose to help their children appreciate 00:21:17 ‘the graphic visual imagery of a Bible-based account 00:21:21 ‘while at the same time building trust in Jehovah, 00:21:25 who will be with them in times of distress.’ 00:21:28 The point is, friends, 00:21:30 the Bible warns us, young and old alike, 00:21:33 that a time of fiery testing looms on the horizon. 00:21:38 We want to be realistic and face these events 00:21:41 with faith and courage. 00:21:44 Our videos depict such circumstances 00:21:48 in a tasteful and sanitized way, 00:21:51 not showing any actual acts of bloodshed or violence. 00:21:57 Be assured that the Governing Body 00:22:00 is not trying to scare anyone. 00:22:04 Instead, we are trying 00:22:07 to prepare everyone. 00:22:10 We feel responsible to fortify the brotherhood 00:22:13 by using fire-resistant building materials 00:22:17 in the spirit of 1 Corinthians chapter 3. 00:22:21 As teachers of the Word of God, 00:22:24 may we all give prayerful thought to the methods, 00:22:28 techniques, and the diligence we display 00:22:32 when conducting Bible studies. 00:22:35 We’re motivated by the very spirit of Jehovah God. 00:22:40 The words at 2 Peter 3:9 come to mind. 00:22:44 Of Jehovah, it says: 00:22:46 “He does not desire anyone to be destroyed 00:22:51 but desires all to attain to repentance.” 00:22:56 May that be our resolve 00:22:58 as we take to heart the inspired words of 1 Corinthians 3:10: 00:23:03 “Let each one keep watching how he is building”! 00:23:09 Having children is one of the greatest joys in life 00:23:14 and one of the greatest responsibilities 00:23:17 Jehovah entrusts to a husband and wife. 00:23:20 In the following dramatization, 00:23:22 notice how the arrival of a baby changes a marriage 00:23:26 and how Jehovah helps first-time parents. 00:23:35 Jehovah has been so good to us. 00:23:47 We enjoy a busy life full of blessings . . . 00:23:57 . . . including one we didn’t expect. 00:24:13 We love our little Emma so much! 00:24:23 But child-rearing was harder than we thought. 00:24:49 Most days went well 00:24:56 —others, not so much. 00:25:05 I just need some rest. 00:25:09 When will things be back to normal? 00:25:12 I wake with every little cry! 00:25:16 I wake when she’s silent. 00:25:19 Am I doing this right? 00:25:23 I should check on them. 00:25:27 Any time to ourselves was time to do nothing. 00:25:30 Fatigue was affecting our relationship with Jehovah . . . 00:25:36 . . . and each other. 00:25:52 We were so relieved when David, a father himself, 00:25:56 offered to visit with another elder. 00:26:02 We read Isaiah 40:29: 00:26:06 “He gives power to the tired one 00:26:09 and full might to those lacking strength.” 00:26:14 As a loving Father, 00:26:17 Jehovah wants parents to succeed. 00:26:19 So he gives us what we need to recharge us. 00:26:24 Things might never be like they were before. 00:26:26 But his suggestions helped us create 00:26:28 a practical and consistent spiritual routine. 00:26:32 David said it’s normal for new parents to feel anxious, 00:26:36 and anxiety is tiring. 00:26:39 So we pray for a calm heart . . . 00:26:42 . . . and extra kindness when tired, 00:26:46 so we can keep working as a team. 00:26:59 I so appreciate Zack’s help. 00:27:06 And I’m sacrificing some unnecessary things 00:27:11 to put spiritual things first. 00:27:24 There will always be a lot to do. 00:27:30 But when Emma sleeps, 00:27:34 I feed my faith 00:27:38 and rest. 00:27:44 Our new spiritual routine is invigorating. 00:28:05 Hey, Daddy! 00:28:06 Look! 00:28:08 Hey. 00:28:17 Jehovah helped us to understand. 00:28:20 While life in this system may have many challenges, 00:28:23 putting spiritual things first 00:28:26 will give us the strength to meet them. 00:28:33 That new father wanted life to get “back to normal.” 00:28:38 But all parents realize 00:28:41 that having children creates a “new normal.” 00:28:46 If you are first-time parents, please remember, 00:28:50 one of the most important adjustments you’ll make 00:28:53 is to establish a new spiritual routine 00:28:57 for yourselves and your precious little child. 00:29:03 Of course, children grow, 00:29:06 and when they cross into their teenage years, 00:29:09 suddenly, everything seems to change. 00:29:12 In the following video, notice how Rudy and Nenita Garcia 00:29:17 were determined to teach their daughters Jehovah’s ways 00:29:21 and the results they experienced. 00:29:25 We already had our firstborn, Renita. 00:29:28 And then I was told that we were going to have twins. 00:29:31 We were new in the truth and inexperienced. 00:29:34 So I was saying to myself: 00:29:37 ‘How can I take care of my children, not only physically but more so spiritually? 00:29:41 ‘How will I be able to teach them to love Jehovah, 00:29:45 to worship Jehovah?’ 00:29:47 And 1 Corinthians 3:10 00:29:50 shows us the importance 00:29:52 of raising a family 00:29:54 by using good quality materials. 00:29:57 So having a spiritual routine is very important for the children. 00:30:02 My wife and I would have to lay a good spiritual foundation. 00:30:07 We would have to set a good example for our children. 00:30:12 As long as I could remember, I would always see my parents studying, 00:30:16 doing personal Bible study. 00:30:18 I remember Dad—one time, he came to us in the living room, 00:30:22 and he said, “You know, I was reading Psalm 1:2, 00:30:26 “where it said we should find ‘delight in the law of Jehovah 00:30:29 and read in an undertone day and night.’” 00:30:32 He said, “What if we do this as a family project, 00:30:35 like, we read the Bible every day out loud together?” 00:30:40 And my parents were very simple, you know. 00:30:42 They didn’t require a lot of fancy things. 00:30:46 They were content. 00:30:47 Mom and Dad always worked part-time. 00:30:50 Dad pioneered, so money was limited. 00:30:54 Sometimes the car we had wasn’t the most reliable, 00:30:58 and it would break down right before the meeting. 00:31:00 I remember when our car broke down. 00:31:02 Initially I thought, ‘Oh, we’re not going to go to the meeting.’ 00:31:06 Mom and Dad would say: “Well, the car broke down. 00:31:09 There’s a meeting tonight, so let’s walk.” 00:31:12 So there are the five of us —my dad in his suit, 00:31:16 the four women would be in our dresses with our book bags. 00:31:19 And so that taught me not to let obstacles 00:31:22 and anxieties prevent me from going to my meetings. 00:31:26 Spending quality time was very important to my parents, 00:31:31 especially after the meetings. 00:31:33 We would change into our pajamas, grab a snack, 00:31:36 go to the living room, and just start talking 00:31:39 about how our day went and how the meeting went. 00:31:46 Just those special moments 00:31:48 —they brought us closer together. 00:31:51 I saw that Dad, 00:31:54 no matter how busy he was, 00:31:56 would drop what he was doing and look at me and talk. 00:32:01 I knew I was more important to him than what he was doing. 00:32:05 I remember a time when I had a crush on a boy. 00:32:09 My parents reasoned with me. 00:32:11 I felt very comfortable, you know, after that point, to maybe talk 00:32:15 about other things because I could see that my parents 00:32:18 were not going to be angry at me. 00:32:21 You know, they were going to listen to me and what I was feeling. 00:32:24 One of the blessings that Mom and Dad gave me 00:32:28 was teaching me how to think 00:32:31 and meditate on scriptures. 00:32:34 They encouraged us to set full-time service, 00:32:38 or pioneering, as a goal. 00:32:40 We all worked part-time, me and my siblings. 00:32:44 And I remember one close family friend 00:32:48 said to me: “You know, your parents are getting older. 00:32:52 “You know, you’re their daughter, and you should probably work full-time. 00:32:57 That way they’d have more of an easy life.” 00:33:00 After that sister’s conversation, I almost gave up 00:33:03 on pioneering, but I knew deep down 00:33:07 that my parents would not be happy about that. 00:33:10 They wanted us to spend our youth serving Jehovah. 00:33:14 My husband and I were invited to attend 00:33:19 the 145th class of Gilead, and that was like a dream come true. 00:33:23 I have to thank my parents for that 00:33:26 because they always supported me through the years. 00:33:30 I couldn’t have done it without them, 00:33:32 and for that I’ll be forever grateful. 00:33:35 I really do thank my parents 00:33:38 for the upbringing that they gave me. 00:33:41 I have a very happy life. 00:33:43 I’m thankful that I was able 00:33:45 to avoid a lot of heartache, 00:33:48 and that’s because my parents raised me 00:33:52 in the truth and in Jehovah’s way. 00:33:54 Children are born imitators, 00:33:57 and they’re going to imitate our example. 00:34:01 I want to thank Jehovah for what our family is now. 00:34:06 To see all of us in the pioneer work 00:34:11 —all five of us are pioneering— thank you, Jehovah. 00:34:17 Raising three daughters 00:34:19 took years of work and sacrifice. 00:34:23 But Rudy and Nenita are joyful, 00:34:26 knowing their daughters are happily serving Jehovah full-time. 00:34:32 Likewise, if we build in our children 00:34:35 fire-resistant materials, 00:34:38 then we give them everything they need 00:34:40 to make wise decisions themselves. 00:34:44 This was the case for Louise Blanton. 00:34:48 Notice how her parents’ building techniques 00:34:52 helped her to choose a fulfilling life. 00:34:58 My family started studying with Witnesses in New Jersey. 00:35:03 My parents had been very diligent in helping us to appreciate 00:35:06 not only Bible principles 00:35:09 but also characters in the Bible 00:35:11 who could be a role model for us. 00:35:15 It helped us to know that Jehovah cared 00:35:18 not only for adult publishers 00:35:22 but also for the children 00:35:24 that were serving him. 00:35:27 When you went out in the ministry, 00:35:30 it became such a common thing 00:35:34 —the police would come and pick you up. 00:35:36 If they couldn’t track down the parents, they would put the children in jail, 00:35:41 knowing that eventually the parents would have to come looking for them. 00:35:46 The police would use scare tactics. 00:35:49 They’d say: “There are rats in the cell. 00:35:53 Is that where you want to be?” 00:35:55 —anything to make you fearful, 00:35:58 to intimidate you to tell them where your parents were. 00:36:03 They’d put us in the jail, 00:36:05 and in order to build our faith, we would sing. 00:36:09 We didn’t have Kingdom melodies back then, 00:36:12 so we used to make up songs, 00:36:15 and that would keep us focused 00:36:18 on what we were doing there. 00:36:21 After I reached the age of 18, 00:36:24 my parents were agreeable to my accepting an assignment. 00:36:28 And in those years, 00:36:30 because of the racial issue in the south, 00:36:35 there were so many areas in the south 00:36:38 where they didn’t have Kingdom Halls 00:36:41 that the colored could attend. 00:36:43 So if you were free and you would accept an assignment, 00:36:48 the Society usually sent you to the south. 00:36:52 My parents were both born in the south, 00:36:55 so they were able to tell us what to expect 00:37:00 to keep the culture shock from being so great. 00:37:04 I was assigned to pioneer in Andalusia, Alabama. 00:37:09 Based on all of the matters that pertain 00:37:14 to integration and segregation, 00:37:17 this was a hotbed 00:37:20 for testing those issues. 00:37:24 And so I was concerned 00:37:27 about whether I had the fiber 00:37:30 to work under those circumstances. 00:37:36 The field was wide open. 00:37:38 There were so many in the area 00:37:40 that had no knowledge of Jehovah’s Witnesses 00:37:44 and were very receptive to the message. 00:37:47 That part of our ministry was very rewarding. 00:37:52 We had some very strong 00:37:56 and helpful brothers 00:37:59 that Jehovah was using 00:38:02 to get his people 00:38:07 —no matter what color— 00:38:09 to appreciate Him and his purpose. 00:38:13 When you focused on these things 00:38:16 —the suggestions and the ideas— 00:38:18 the brothers would help you to appreciate 00:38:20 how to deal with the issues. 00:38:23 They taught us, for one thing, 00:38:26 that the whole purpose of the Ku Klux Klan 00:38:29 is to intimidate. 00:38:32 They feel that if they frighten you enough, 00:38:35 you will leave. 00:38:37 Satan has always used 00:38:40 methods to try to intimidate. 00:38:43 But we would make it a practice to stay, to hold our place. 00:38:47 When we were in street work, we’d stay right there. 00:38:51 And of course, as they passed, 00:38:53 they had their remarks to make, 00:38:56 but we just stood there. 00:38:58 When I think back on my youth, 00:39:02 there isn’t anything that I was able to participate in 00:39:05 that I came to regret. 00:39:07 There were always blessings that went along with it. 00:39:10 If you make yourself available, 00:39:13 Jehovah will use you. 00:39:16 Jehovah is always there as a support. 00:39:20 There isn’t anything that he directs his organization to do 00:39:26 that doesn’t receive his support. 00:39:30 So if we are challenged with a new assignment 00:39:33 or if we feel inadequate about it, 00:39:38 if we look to Jehovah 00:39:41 —with Jehovah, you can’t fail. 00:39:45 Louise’s parents taught her to appreciate principles 00:39:49 and characters in the Bible. 00:39:52 That reached her heart 00:39:54 and aided Louise to endure difficult trials. 00:39:59 She has now spent over 50 years 00:40:01 of her life in the full-time service, 00:40:04 including over 40 years in Bethel service. 00:40:09 Hard work and sacrifice 00:40:12 may also be needed to help our Bible students 00:40:15 to become disciples. 00:40:17 We’ll see that in our next video. 00:40:25 A teacher should always help his or her student 00:40:28 to develop love for Jehovah. 00:40:32 That’s the best foundation to build on. 00:40:36 For me, it’s important that they see Jehovah 00:40:39 as a real Person. 00:40:41 In order to help them build a good foundation, they need to know 00:40:45 that Jehovah gave us the Bible so that we can receive his guidance 00:40:49 for the future and for eternity. 00:40:54 I’m so thankful for my Bible teacher. 00:40:56 She always helped me see Jehovah’s point of view 00:40:59 on things from the Bible. 00:41:03 I’ll never stop thanking Jehovah 00:41:05 for what he’s done for me. 00:41:07 He drew me to the truth. 00:41:09 He gave me a teacher that didn’t just teach me about the Bible, 00:41:13 but by his example, the brother taught me 00:41:15 how to really be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:41:20 When I started studying, 00:41:22 my parents told me that they didn’t consider me their daughter anymore. 00:41:28 During the study, my teacher helped 00:41:31 me see from the Bible that Jehovah had a lot of really good things in store for me. 00:41:43 My environment was very hostile before. 00:41:48 My problem was that my wife and I argued a lot, 00:41:51 and I had a bad temper. 00:41:55 The brother’s advice really helped us to keep calm when we had problems. 00:42:03 When a person starts getting to know Jehovah and they learn 00:42:07 and apply Bible truths in their lives, 00:42:10 the people who were their friends before are going to disappear. 00:42:15 We need to give them that friendship they’re losing. 00:42:22 We’ve had to make some sacrifices for our students. 00:42:26 But when we think about the blessings, 00:42:28 we can barely remember the sacrifices. 00:42:32 I worked full-time, 00:42:36 but I had to adapt to the student’s needs, 00:42:38 not the other way around. 00:42:41 Sometimes I’d be up at six o’clock in the morning 00:42:43 conducting a Bible study. 00:42:45 Sometimes things come up, and you can’t make it. 00:42:48 But the study should still happen. 00:42:51 Another brother can study with them if we’re not going to be there. 00:42:55 When someone starts studying, it can feel like a lot. 00:42:59 The Bible itself has 66 books. 00:43:02 So for example, you can suggest that the student start reading 00:43:06 a few verses every day 00:43:08 and then add a little more every week. 00:43:10 So that is how we see them progress. 00:43:13 You get to see them practice what they’re learning 00:43:16 —really following the Bible’s counsel in their lives. 00:43:20 We don’t just conduct a study, 00:43:22 see them progress, get baptized, 00:43:24 and then say, “OK, see you later.” 00:43:26 It doesn’t work like that. They become part of our life. 00:43:33 He’s been my friend since before I got baptized. 00:43:35 It’s been about 28 years now. 00:43:38 Years ago, my former student Abel had a really difficult time. 00:43:42 His wife got sick. 00:43:45 Although we were far away when we heard about it, 00:43:48 we kept in touch with him. 00:43:53 “Thank you, Livingston family, 00:43:55 “for calling Jessica during these hard times. 00:43:59 It’s very encouraging to us.” 00:44:01 “I know that you love us, and we also love you very much. 00:44:06 “You are an example in true worship for us. 00:44:10 May Jehovah continue caring for you and blessing you.” 00:44:22 I got baptized 34 years ago 00:44:24 and have been pioneering for 33 years. 00:44:29 My Bible teacher was Schera. 00:44:32 She was diagnosed with cancer. 00:44:35 When I got sick, Jehovah used Mercedes to help me. 00:44:41 After all this time, since I helped 00:44:44 her learn the truth, now she comforts me. 00:44:48 It’s a father-son relationship. 00:44:51 At some point, 00:44:53 maybe this student will help me. 00:44:55 And we can say that ‘we are good-for-nothing slaves, 00:44:58 and we have done what we ought to have done.’ 00:45:02 And they keep loving and serving Jehovah. 00:45:04 What’s better than that? 00:45:12 To expand their ministry, 00:45:14 many of Jehovah’s Witnesses have learned a new language. 00:45:18 Have you? 00:45:20 Teaching someone the truth 00:45:22 in the language of their heart can be rewarding. 00:45:26 But learning to speak and think 00:45:28 in a new language can also be tough. 00:45:32 In a recent morning worship, 00:45:34 Brother William Malenfant offered some practical suggestions. 00:45:40 Usually, 00:45:41 the language that we learned 00:45:43 from infancy becomes 00:45:45 the language of the heart, 00:45:47 and we learn it at home. 00:45:50 In most cases, the dominant influence 00:45:53 in our life in connection with our language of the heart, 00:45:56 or the first language, is our mother. 00:45:59 And that’s precisely what took place 00:46:02 in Israel in the days of Nehemiah. 00:46:05 But the mothers in this case were pagans 00:46:07 sharing their language and probably their beliefs with their children. 00:46:12 And a lot of Jewish men —prominent Jewish men— 00:46:15 had married pagan women. 00:46:18 Let’s read the scripture together 00:46:20 at Nehemiah 13:23, 24 00:46:28 —Nehemiah 13:23, 24. 00:46:31 It says: “In those days I also saw Jews 00:46:35 “who had married Ashdodite, Ammonite, 00:46:38 “and Moabite women. 00:46:40 “Half of their sons were speaking Ashdodite 00:46:44 “and half spoke the language of the different peoples, 00:46:46 “but none of them 00:46:48 knew how to speak the language of the Jews.” 00:46:53 And as was stated, it’s very likely that those mothers 00:46:58 would be teaching the children 00:47:00 about their land, their culture, 00:47:02 their worship, and the pagan gods they worshipped. 00:47:05 And so the decision was made 00:47:08 by the Jews themselves, 00:47:10 when they were counseled and given direction 00:47:13 from Ezra and from Nehemiah, 00:47:15 to send those wives away along with the children. 00:47:20 And that’s an interesting thing. 00:47:21 It must have been a bit difficult 00:47:23 for some husbands to see their children sent away. 00:47:26 But all they knew were the languages of the pagan wives 00:47:30 —nothing about Hebrew and the worship of Jehovah God. 00:47:33 And the problem was that they were sent away to keep the Jews 00:47:36 from losing their identity by a gradual assimilation into the cultures 00:47:41 and the religions of the surrounding nations that those wives belonged to. 00:47:47 In Nehemiah’s day, speaking Hebrew was vital, 00:47:51 and we’re grateful it’s not necessary today. 00:47:54 We all don’t have to learn Hebrew. 00:47:56 But in his wisdom, Jehovah invites people who speak any language 00:48:01 to learn the “pure language,” the truth about him and his purposes. 00:48:06 And, you know, it’s a bit like the opposite 00:48:09 of what took place at the Tower of Babel, 00:48:11 where Jehovah intervened and confused the builders of the Tower of Babel, 00:48:16 imposing upon them different languages, including different ways of thinking. 00:48:20 And so they went off disorganized and separated from one another. 00:48:25 And today, we have people from all over the world 00:48:28 who speak many, many different languages, 00:48:30 but in Jehovah’s wisdom, 00:48:32 he’s bringing them all together 00:48:34 —those who love the truth and love him— in unity. 00:48:37 And this is what Zephaniah says —Zephaniah 3:9. 00:48:41 It speaks of the “pure language”: 00:48:44 “I shall give to peoples the change to a pure language, 00:48:49 in order for them all to call upon the name of Jehovah.” 00:48:52 And that’s what these people do who speak other languages. 00:48:55 We reach them with the truth, but then they’re unified 00:48:58 with Jehovah’s organization, 00:49:00 because it goes on to say “in order to serve him 00:49:03 shoulder to shoulder.” 00:49:05 So isn’t that interesting—the way Jehovah has used the “pure language” 00:49:10 to bring people of many diverse backgrounds 00:49:13 and languages together in his worship? 00:49:17 In our day, people of many different languages 00:49:19 are leaving their home countries to live elsewhere. 00:49:22 And it’s really quite amazing when you consider: 00:49:24 Large cities are filled with people 00:49:27 of different languages, and even in little villages, 00:49:30 we find people speaking different languages. 00:49:33 They need help to learn the truth 00:49:36 in the language of their heart. 00:49:42 It’s interesting to note how many Bethelites 00:49:44 have learned other languages in order to teach the truth to people. 00:49:49 In the United States Bethel, in our branch, 00:49:53 there are over 2,500 Bethelites 00:49:57 who are engaged 00:50:00 in 24 different language groups and congregations. 00:50:03 So a lot of Bethelites (and commuters are included in those numbers) 00:50:08 are doing a very fine work 00:50:10 in helping people in the territory to learn the truth. 00:50:13 And wouldn’t it be nice— I know some of us would love to learn some other languages 00:50:17 —wouldn’t it be lovely if we could learn the way a child does? 00:50:20 They just absorb it —no effort— 00:50:22 and they start speaking it. 00:50:24 A researcher, Dr. John Brierley, says this: 00:50:28 “‘Clearly the young brain seems 00:50:30 “to be programmed almost like a computer’ 00:50:33 “for language development. 00:50:35 “He notes that even ‘brain anatomy’ suggests 00:50:38 “‘that an infant is born 00:50:40 with a pre-programmed biological capacity to speak.’” 00:50:45 And then the comment in Awake! said 00:50:48 that it’s as though the brain is hardwired 00:50:50 to learn language. 00:50:52 I’m sorry to say that as the years go by, 00:50:56 the hardwiring starts to fray a bit in many of us. 00:51:02 But if we make the effort 00:51:06 and we do make a switch to a congregation where they speak the language 00:51:10 that you would like to learn, remember this: 00:51:14 Children can be a big help in the congregation 00:51:16 that you attend in a foreign language. 00:51:19 They can also be very startling and frank: 00:51:22 “You speak funny. 00:51:24 “Why can’t you pronounce that word properly? 00:51:27 It’s so easy.” 00:51:28 ‘Well, yes, to you it’s easy. 00:51:30 You were raised with it.’ 00:51:31 But that’s how kids are. 00:51:33 They don’t realize the difficulties we have 00:51:35 as we get older, with the grooves being so deep 00:51:38 and so thick in the brain with our original language 00:51:41 that it’s hard to get out of those grooves the vowels and consonants 00:51:44 that we’re not used to saying in a certain order. 00:51:49 Keep a sense of humor; listen to the kids. 00:51:53 They’ll help you. 00:51:54 And don’t be overly concerned 00:51:56 about speaking a new language without an accent. 00:52:01 Everybody has an accent one way or another. 00:52:04 Some are more agreeable than others, but everyone has that. 00:52:07 And some don’t want to admit it, but they really do. 00:52:10 They have an accent. 00:52:11 Even when we all speak the same language, you can tell where a person is from 00:52:15 —whether it’s east, north, west (whatever it may be), south. 00:52:19 There are accents or intonations in the way words are pronounced. 00:52:23 I remember, in years gone by, for missionaries 00:52:25 who were sent out into the field, 00:52:28 we had to follow a special program in learning a new language. 00:52:31 Your first month in your new assignment, 00:52:33 you had to study 11 hours a day 00:52:36 for 30 days your new language. 00:52:39 Well, you felt like you were in the Tower of Babel 00:52:42 on those occasions because it was very difficult. 00:52:44 The second month, you had to study your new language 00:52:47 four hours a day and be out preaching 130 hours. 00:52:50 Your third month was 150 hours in the field ministry, 00:52:54 and you’d study the language as you could. 00:52:57 For those who are striving to learn a new language, 00:53:00 here are a few suggestions I gleaned from the Awake! of March 2007 00:53:04 and the January issue of 2000. 00:53:08 There are four points: 00:53:10 (1) motivation, 00:53:12 (2) humility, 00:53:14 (3) patience, 00:53:16 (4) practice. 00:53:18 “Motivation. 00:53:20 You need an incentive —a reason to pursue your goal.” 00:53:23 Because if you have a high level of motivation, 00:53:26 you’re going to be more successful. 00:53:28 Well, we have the best motivation there is: 00:53:30 teach people the truth; praise our God, Jehovah; 00:53:33 build up the congregation we’ve chosen to attend. 00:53:37 What about humility? 00:53:39 Well, “don’t expect too much of yourself” when you start learning a new language. 00:53:44 “Mistakes are inevitable.” 00:53:46 And if you wait until you can speak it perfectly 00:53:49 before you start making comments or give a talk, 00:53:53 you may be waiting quite a while. 00:53:55 Be prepared, because it may not be 00:53:57 until after Armageddon that you achieve that goal. 00:54:00 So don’t be afraid to make mistakes and carry on with your new language. 00:54:05 ‘Patience. 00:54:07 ‘A brother stated: “For me, the first two years were difficult, 00:54:11 ‘and at times I felt like giving up.” 00:54:13 ‘Still, he acknowledges 00:54:15 that it does get easier as time goes by.’ 00:54:19 And it gets enjoyable. 00:54:21 And number four: “Practice. 00:54:23 “A regular routine will help you to become fluent in [your] new language. 00:54:28 “Try to practice every day, even if it’s for just a few minutes. 00:54:31 “[There’s an interesting saying] As one textbook puts it, 00:54:34 “‘“A little and often” 00:54:37 is preferable to “a lot but seldom.”’” 00:54:40 So be steady, 00:54:42 even for short periods of time, in practicing the new language. 00:54:47 Now, the fact is that most Bethelites in our branch 00:54:49 are serving in the English-language field, 00:54:52 and they are truly a blessing to their congregations. 00:54:56 The brothers are happy to have Bethelites who take the lead, 00:55:00 who give of themselves, and who work hard to build up the congregation. 00:55:04 So the decision to serve in an English congregation 00:55:07 or with a different language group is highly personal. 00:55:12 Whatever the decision may be, there’s a key factor 00:55:16 that we all have to keep in mind 00:55:18 to maintain our spirituality at a high level 00:55:21 and give our Bethel assignment our best. 00:55:25 And that key factor that we have to keep in mind 00:55:28 is to focus on the one language that counts the most 00:55:32 —the “pure language” that Jehovah God has given to his people. 00:55:38 As we noted earlier, 00:55:40 we can expect stormy tests 00:55:44 and trials to come our way. 00:55:46 But if we’ve built fire-resistant materials 00:55:50 in our children, our students, and ourselves 00:55:53 —we will stand firm. 00:55:56 We’ll see that in our beautiful new music video. 00:56:10 The first time I heard the word of truth 00:56:18 About Jehovah and a world that is new, 00:56:25 Love grew in my heart right up to this day. 00:56:33 But I know this world wants to pull me away. 00:56:43 I cannot lose sight. 00:56:51 I want to do what is right. 00:56:57 I’ll keep building my faith so I can be strong. 00:57:02 I will not give up or give in. 00:57:06 His Word as my guide I’ll follow each day. 00:57:10 I’ll pray to stand firm on the ground. 00:57:14 I’ll keep building my faith; I won’t stop now. 00:57:26 So we have to choose where we will stand: 00:57:34 A life built on rock or one built on sand. 00:57:41 This world around us wants us to believe 00:57:48 It will stand forever, so live and be free. 00:57:59 But we know the truth, 00:58:07 What the Kingdom will do. 00:58:12 Let’s keep building our faith so we can be strong. 00:58:17 We will not give up or give in. 00:58:21 His Word as our guide we’ll follow each day. 00:58:26 We’ll pray to stand firm on the ground. 00:58:29 Let’s keep building our faith; we won’t stop now. 00:58:50 Let’s keep building our faith so we can be strong. 00:58:55 We will not give up or give in. 00:58:58 His Word as our guide we’ll follow each day. 00:59:03 We’ll pray to stand firm on the ground. 00:59:07 Let’s keep building our faith; we won’t stop now. 00:59:15 We won’t stop now. 00:59:19 We won’t stop now. 00:59:33 What an encouraging song! 00:59:36 And to further help you stand firm against trials, 00:59:41 a new video will be released 00:59:43 later this month entitled 00:59:46 Firm Under Opposition. 00:59:49 This 10-minute video consists of segments 00:59:52 from two previous documentaries 00:59:55 that touched the hearts of many: 00:59:57 Jehovah’s Witnesses Stand Firm Against Nazi Assault 01:00:02 and Faithful Under Trials 01:00:05 —Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Soviet Union. 01:00:09 So please look for this video that combines the highlights 01:00:13 of the two previous programs. 01:00:16 It will strengthen 01:00:18 and help you remain faithful to Jehovah. 01:00:23 The theme of this month’s program was 01:00:26 “Let Each One Keep Watching How He Is Building.” 01:00:31 We saw how first-time parents 01:00:35 can successfully embrace their new responsibilities. 01:00:40 By setting a good example, Rudy and Nenita 01:00:43 helped their three daughters reach meaningful, spiritual goals. 01:00:48 Louise received fine training from her parents, 01:00:51 which has helped her to enjoy a fulfilling life. 01:00:58 Cecilio and Schera 01:00:59 made sacrifices to be effective 01:01:02 Bible teachers, and their efforts made 01:01:04 a real difference in the lives of their students. 01:01:10 Before we close, 01:01:12 let’s visit our brothers and sisters in Nigeria. 01:01:17 Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. 01:01:21 Its some 200 million people 01:01:23 speak over 500 languages. 01:01:26 More than 400,000 Jehovah’s Witnesses 01:01:29 live and preach there. 01:01:31 Many publishers come from other lands to share in the ministry. 01:01:36 The response to the good news is very encouraging. 01:01:40 More than 870,000 Bible studies 01:01:44 are conducted every month. 01:01:46 On average, about 40 people are baptized every day, 01:01:51 and seven new congregations 01:01:53 are formed every month. 01:01:56 This is the Obudu Ranch Congregation. 01:01:59 Their territory is beautiful, vast, and mountainous 01:02:04 —literally in the clouds. 01:02:06 Twenty-three publishers, 01:02:08 including two special pioneers, serve here. 01:02:12 To reach areas only accessible by foot, 01:02:16 the publishers sometimes walk for eight hours. 01:02:19 The terrain is challenging, but the long walk 01:02:23 provides opportunities for upbuilding association. 01:02:27 After working the territory, our brothers 01:02:29 stay overnight and walk back 01:02:32 another eight hours. 01:02:36 Our brothers and sisters in the Obudu Ranch Congregation 01:02:39 send their warm love and greetings! 01:02:43 From the World Headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 01:02:46 this is JW Broadcasting.
