How did King Jehoash respond to High Priest Jehoiada’s instruction?
Even though King Jehoash was without a father, he carefully followed the direction of faithful High Priest Jehoiada. That priest took him as if Jehoash were his own son. That made Jehoash take the lead in pure worship and serve Jehovah. In time, Jehoash even arranged renovate Jehovah’s temple.
If we use social media, what should we take into consideration?
If I use social media, I need to ask myself: ‘Is my motive to impress others? Is my goal to build others up, or is it to boost my image? Am I allowing the people who use this tool to influence my thinking, speech, and actions in a negative way?’
How did things turn out for Uzziah?
One day, King Uzziah decided to enter Jehovah’s temple and presumptuously tried to burn incense on the altar, which kings were not allowed to do. High Priest Azariah tried to correct him, but the king got very angry. Sadly, Uzziah ruined his record of faithful service and was punished with leprosy. 2 Chronicles chapter 26 verse 21 says he was a leper till he died. He was separated from the house of Jehovah.
What actions may show whether we are humble? (See also picture.)
One of the actions is that instead of boasting about our accomplishments, we should give Jehovah the credit for what we are able to do. We must humbly realize that we are imperfect and need discipline.
We can also learn from what a brother in his 60’s wrote: He said he doesn’t take himself too seriously. When he receives discipline for the childish mistakes that he sometimes make, he tries to get back up and keep moving forward.
Picture: A sister prayed to Jehovah before handling a platform assignment. When commended by others in the congregation for the good way she handle the assignment, she gave all the credit to Jehovah.
Why did Josiah make a serious mistake, and what is the lesson for us?
Josiah had served Jehovah for many years. But at a certain time in his service, he trusted in himself instead of asking Jehovah for guidance. The lesson for me is that no matter how old or how long I have been studying the Bible, I must keep searching for Jehovah. That involves regularly praying for his guidance, studying his Word, attending meetings, assemblies and conventions, and benefiting from the advice of mature Christians. The benefits are immense.
What Scriptural examples show that your life can turn out well?
David was one of them. At a young age, he chose God’s side and later became a loyal king. Granted, he on occasion made mistakes, but overall God approved of him. (1 Ki. 3:6; 9:4, 5; 14:8) You can be encouraged and motivated by studying about David’s life and faithful service.
Mark and Timothy served Jehovah from when they were young and gained a lasting record of God’s approval; it turned out very well for them.
