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Foe or Friend?? ???? It’s NOT a flower, friends this is the coolest thing ever, This "mantis" resembles a new-bloomed orchid, which presumably lulls its victims into a false sense of curiosity as they admire its color scheme before it beheads them. Imagine a wolf covered in daisies and youÂ’re not far off. Thank you Jehovah for your creation it is amazing! So what does this mean for us? ? Moral of this Story: Sometimes a Friend is really a Foe we should be cautious! 1 Corinthians 15:33. Please READ ?????

How Can I Live With My Grief? ????? “I FELT a lot of pressure on me to hold in my feelings,” explains Mike in recalling his father’s death. To Mike, suppressing his grief was the manly thing to do. Yet he later realized that he was wrong. So when Mike’s friend lost his grandfather, Mike knew what to do. He says: “A couple of years ago, I would have patted him on the shoulder and said, ‘Be a man.’ Now I touched his arm and said, ‘Feel however you have to feel. It will help you to deal with it. If you want me to go, I’ll go. If you want me to stay, I’ll stay. But don’t be afraid to feel.’” ????? Of course, not everyone expresses grief in the same way. And such factors as whether the loved one died suddenly or death came after a long illness might have a bearing on the emotional reaction of the survivors. But one thing appears certain: Repressing your feelings can be harmful both physically and emotionally. It is far healthier to release your grief. How? The Scriptures contain some practical advice. Releasing Grief—How? ????? How Can I Live With My Grief? “I FELT a lot of pressure on me to hold in my feelings,” explains Mike in recalling his father’s death. To Mike, suppressing his grief was the manly thing to do. Yet he later realized that he was wrong. So when Mike’s friend lost his grandfather, Mike knew what to do. He says: “A couple of years ago, I would have patted him on the shoulder and said, ‘Be a man.’ Now I touched his arm and said, ‘Feel however you have to feel. It will help you to deal with it. If you want me to go, I’ll go. If you want me to stay, I’ll stay. But don’t be afraid to feel.’” ????? MaryAnne also felt pressure to hold in her feelings when her husband died. “I was so worried about being a good example to others,” she recalls, “that I did not permit myself the normal feelings. But I eventually learned that trying to be a pillar of strength for others wasn’t helping me. I began analyzing my situation and saying, ‘Cry if you have to cry. Don’t try to be too strong. Get it out of your system.’” ????? So both Mike and MaryAnne recommend: Let yourself grieve! And they are correct. Why? Because grieving is a necessary emotional release. Releasing your feelings can relieve the pressure you are under. The natural expression of emotions, if coupled with understanding and accurate information, lets you put your feelings in proper perspective. ????? Of course, not everyone expresses grief in the same way. And such factors as whether the loved one died suddenly or death came after a long illness might have a bearing on the emotional reaction of the survivors. But one thing appears certain: Repressing your feelings can be harmful both physically and emotionally. It is far healthier to release your grief. How? The Scriptures contain some practical advice. ????? Releasing Grief—How? Talking can be a helpful release. Following the death of all ten of his children, as well as some other personal tragedies, the ancient patriarch Job said: “My soul certainly feels a loathing toward my life. I will give vent to [Hebrew, “loose”] my concern about myself. I will speak in the bitterness of my soul!” (Job 1:2, 18, 19; 10:1) Job could no longer restrain his concern. He needed to let it loose; he had to “speak.” Similarly, the English dramatist Shakespeare wrote in Macbeth: “Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak whispers the o’er-fraught heart and bids it break.” So talking about your feelings to “a true companion” who will listen patiently and sympathetically can bring a measure of relief. (Proverbs 17:17) ????? Putting experiences and feelings into words often makes it easier to understand them and to deal with them. And if the listener is another bereaved person who has effectively dealt with his or her own loss, you may be able to glean some practical suggestions on how you can cope. When her child died, one mother explained why it helped to talk to another woman who had faced a similar loss: “To know that somebody else had gone through the same thing, had come out whole from it, and that she was still surviving and finding some sort of order in her life again was very strengthening to me.” ????? What if you are not comfortable talking about your feelings? Following the death of Saul and Jonathan, David composed a highly emotional dirge in which he poured out his grief. This mournful composition eventually became part of the written record of the Bible book of Second Samuel. (2 Samuel 1:17-27;2 Chronicles 35:25) Similarly, some find it easier to express themselves in writing. One widow reported that she would write down her feelings and then days later read over what she had written. She found this a helpful release. ????? Whether by talking or writing, communicating your feelings can help you to release your grief. It can also help to clear up misunderstandings. A bereaved mother explains: “My husband and I heard of other couples that got divorced after losing a child, and we didn’t want that to happen to us. So any time we felt angry, wanting to blame each other, we would talk it out. I think we really grew closer together by doing that.” Thus, letting your feelings be known can help you to understand that even though you may be sharing the same loss, others may grieve differently—at their own pace and in their own way. ?????  Something else that can facilitate the release of grief is crying. There is “a time to weep,” says the Bible. (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4) Surely the death of someone we love brings on such a time. Shedding tears of grief appears to be a necessary part of the healing process. ????? As we have seen, the Bible is filled with examples of men and women of faith—including Jesus Christ—who openly shed tears of grief without any apparent embarrassment.—Genesis 50:3;2 Samuel 1:11, 12; John 11:33, 35. ????? Help From God The Bible assures us: “Jehovah is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” (Psalm 34:18) Yes, more than anything else, a relationship with God can help you to cope with the death of someone you love. How? All the practical suggestions offered thus far have been based on or are in harmony with God’s Word, the Bible. Applying them can help you cope. ????? In addition, do not underestimate the value of prayer. The Bible urges us: “Throw your burden upon Jehovah himself, and he himself will sustain you.” (Psalm 55:22) If talking out your feelings with a sympathetic friend can help, how much more will pouring out your heart to “the God of all comfort” help you!—2 Corinthians 1:3. https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1101994003?q=men+who+cried&p=par ????? Acts 20:31 31 “Therefore keep awake, and bear in mind that for three years,+night and day, I never stopped admonishing each one of you with tears. Apostle Paul ????? Mark 14:72 72 Immediately a rooster crowed a second time,+ and Peter recalled what Jesus had said to him: “Before a rooster crows twice, you will disown me three times.”+ And he broke down and began to weep." Apostle Peter ????? John 11:35 35 Jesus gave way to tears." Christ Jesus Our Lord and Savior

“He Will Draw Close to You” “[God] is not far off from each one of us.”—ACTS 17:27. ????? HAVE you ever looked up at the starry heavens on a clear night and been filled with wonder? The sheer number of stars and the vastness of space inspire awe. In this immense universe, the earth is but a speck. Does this mean that the Creator, “the Most High over all the earth,” is too lofty to be concerned about humans or too distant and unsearchable to be known by them?—Psalm 83:18. ????? The Bible assures us that humans are far from insignificant in JehovahÂ’s eyes. In fact, GodÂ’s Word encourages us to seek him, saying: “He is not far off from each one of us.” (Acts 17:27; 1 Chronicles 28:9) Indeed, if we take steps to draw close to God, he will respond to our efforts. In what way? The words give this heartwarming answer: “He will draw close to you.” (James 4:8) Let us discuss some of the marvelous blessings that Jehovah showers upon those who are close to him. ????? have a precious gift that he has reserved for his people. All the power, wealth, and education that this system of things offers cannot secure this gift. It is a personal gift, one that Jehovah gives only to those close to him. What is it? GodÂ’s Word answers: “If . . . you give forth your voice for discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God. For Jehovah himself gives wisdom.” (Proverbs 2:3-6) Imagine imperfect humans being able to find “the very knowledge of God”! That gift—the knowledge found in GodÂ’s Word—is compared to “hid treasures.” Why? ????? For one thing, the knowledge of God has great value. One of its most precious blessings is the prospect of everlasting life. (John 17:3) But that knowledge enriches our life even now. For example, as a result of our careful study of GodÂ’s Word, we have come to know the answers to such important questions as: What is GodÂ’s name? (Psalm 83:18) What is the true condition of the dead? (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) What is GodÂ’s purpose for the earth and mankind? (Isaiah 45:18) We have also come to know that the best way to live is by applying the BibleÂ’s wise counsel. (Isaiah 30:20, 21; 48:17, 18) ????? Thus, we have sound guidance that helps us to cope with the anxieties of life and to pursue a course that promotes genuine happiness and satisfaction. Above all, our study of GodÂ’s Word has enabled us to come to know JehovahÂ’s marvelous qualities and to draw close to him. What could be more valuable than a close relationship with Jehovah based on “the very knowledge of God”? ????? Those who are close to Jehovah enjoy another blessing—divine protection. The psalmist David, who was no stranger to adversity, wrote: “Jehovah is near to all those calling upon him, to all those who call upon him in trueness. The desire of those fearing him he will perform, and their cry for help he will hear, and he will save them. Jehovah is guarding all those loving him.” (Psalm 145:18-20) Yes, Jehovah is near to those who love him and therefore can be swift in responding to their cries for help. ????? JehovahÂ’s position as the Universal Sovereign is unaffected by what mere humans may do or refuse to do. Nevertheless, Jehovah is an appreciative God. He values—in fact, cherishes—the faithful service of his intelligent creatures. (Psalm 147:11) This, then, is another benefit enjoyed by those who are close to Jehovah: He rewards his servants.—Hebrews 11:6. ????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2002924#h=12

Run, Run to Safety! - Don't Keep Your Head in the Sand! ????????? Abounding With Life ?????????? As lifeless as sand may appear, many creatures call it home. Foxes, snakes, and scorpions burrow in desert sand during the day. Sleeping through the heat, they come out at night to hunt for food. Along Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, in southwest Africa, elephants roam the vast dunes. They seem to have fun on the steep, sandy inclines, sliding down dragging their back legs. The “ship of the desert,” also known as the camel, cruises the sand seas of Asia and Africa. ????????? Some animals come up out of the ocean to make use of sand. When their biological clocks sound the alarm, horseshoe crabs, sea turtles, and small fish called grunions ride the surf to the shore. There they lay their eggs to incubate in the softness of the sand. ????????? For certain flowers, a dune is as comfortable as a window box. Sea rockets, beach peas, and beach morning glories flourish in sand and push their heads back up even when a dune buries them. Their long roots pull up water and nutrients to feed dainty blossoms—dabs of color on the monotone canvas of sand. ????????? Granted, sand can be irritating when it collects in your shoes as you stroll near the shore. Do not get annoyed though. The fact is, we depend on those humble grains of sand! Sand is yet another testament to the wisdom of the Creator, Jehovah God.—Psalm 104:24. 24 How many your works are, O Jehovah!B You have made all of them in wisdom. The earth is full of what you have made." Tap on Video on Link ____Enjoy! ????????? IMG_6106.MP4

Reflecting on Jesus’ humble mental attitude can help us to ‘conduct ourselves as lesser onesÂ’ among our brothers. ????? Doing so contributes to unity. Jehovah, like the father of a large family, wants his children to “dwell together in unity,” to get along. Ps. 133:1 & Luke 9:46. Picture by: edsalazarfineart

In Remembrance of 911 ? These Simple Facts came to Mind We are United in one mind and thought As much as Many of you HATE us Knocking at your door 1. We are a PEACE LOVING People 2. Never would we Strap a Bomb to our Bodies or Bibles 3. We Don't Kill other Human Beings 4. Everyday, we Live by Bible Principles 5. You would Never NEED a FIREARM 6. We LOVE OUR BROTHER'S as our Own Bodies 7. We Practice THOU SHALL NOT KILL! So Ask Yourself If EVERY SINGLE HUMAN BEING PRACTICE WHAT JEHOVAH WITNESSES PRACTICE, there would be NO WARS NO BLOWING UP BUILDING's PLANES, or PEOPLE NO KILLINGS NO MILITARY EVERY COUNTRY WOULD BE AT PEACE!!!! Thank you Teria O. Armstead-Busby ??

We see in the windows of the 3rd floor of the Martin building in Pittsburgh the words “Watch” “Tower”. ????? This is where the brothers published  the Watchtower magazine and other literature and keep the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society operating when Brooklyn Bethel was completely shut down and all the Directors were taken to prison in 1918 - 1919. ????? This building was on Federal and Robinson where now the Pittsburgh PirateÂ’s PNC Park ticket windows are located. ?? **Vemos en las ventanas del tercer piso del edificio Martin en Pittsburgh las palabras “Watch” “Tower”. WAHTpublishingcompany by watchtower_of_allegheny_tour Â

"I got much joy and comfort over your love."—Philem. 7. ????? Early Christians received much support by encouraging one another and building one another up in love. ?????                 (1 Cor. 16:17, 18) "May YOU also keep submitting yourselves to persons of that kind and to everyone cooperating and laboring.17 But I rejoice over the presence* of Steph?a·nas and For·tu·na?tus and A·cha?i·cus, because they have made up for YOUR not being here. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and YOURS. Therefore recognize men of that sort."                              ????? (Eph. 4:11, 12, 16) "And he gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers, 12 with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, for ministerial work, for the building up of the body of the Christ. From him all the body, by being harmoniously joined together and being made to cooperate through every joint that gives what is needed, according to the functioning of each respective member in due measure, makes for the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love."                     When ????? Titus went to Corinth to minister to the brothers there, Paul wrote back to the congregation, saying: “His spirit has been refreshed by all of you.” (2 Cor. 7:13) ????? Likewise today, JehovahÂ’s Witnesses find genuine refreshment through upbuilding Christian fellowship. You know from experience that congregation meetings are a source of great joy. There we find an “interchange of encouragement . . . each one through the otherÂ’s faith.” (Rom. 1:12) Our Christian brothers and sisters are not mere passing acquaintances, superficial associates with whom we casually meet now and again. They are true friends, people we love and respect. We receive much joy and comfort by regularly assembling with them at our meetings. ?????  – w10 6/15 5:3, 4 Â

Hope in Jehovah, and Be Courageous - Show that YOU are a Bright Light! - Can YOU See the HOPE? ????? “Hope in Jehovah; be courageous and let your heart be strong. Yes, hope in Jehovah.”—PSALM 27:14. ????? GENUINE hope is like a bright light. It helps us to see beyond present trials and to face the future with courage and joy. Only Jehovah can give us a sure hope, which he does by means of his inspired Word. ????? (2 Timothy 3:16-17) . . .All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work." ????? In fact, the words “hope,” “hoped,” and “hoping” appear over 160 times in the Bible and refer both to the eager and sure expectation of something good and to the object of that expectation. Such hope is superior to a mere wish, which may have no foundation or prospect of fulfillment. ????? When faced with trials and hardships, Jesus looked beyond the present and hoped in Jehovah. “For the joy that was set before him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2) ????? Because he was keenly focused on the prospect of vindicating JehovahÂ’s sovereignty and sanctifying His name, Jesus never deviated from his course of obedience to God, no matter what it cost him. ????? (Romans 15:4) "For all the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope." ????? (Romans 4:23) That “it was counted to him” was written, however, not for his sake only." ????? (1 Corinthians 10:11) Now these things went on befalling them as examples, and they were written for a warning to us upon whom the ends of the systems of things have arrived." ????? (2 Timothy 3:16) All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness." ????? (2 Peter 1:19) Consequently we have the prophetic word [made] more sure; and YOU are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and a daystar rises, in YOUR hearts." ????? (Romans 5:4) . . .endurance, in turn, an approved condition; the approved condition, in turn, hope." ????? (Psalm 119:50) . . .This is my comfort in my affliction, For your own saying has preserved me alive." ????? (1 Corinthians 9:10) Or is it altogether for our sakes he says it? Really for our sakes it was written, because the man who plows ought to plow in hope and the man who threshes ought to do so in hope of being a partaker." ????? (Hebrews 3:6) but Christ [was faithful] as a Son over the house of that One. We are the house of that One, if we make fast our hold on our freeness of speech and our boasting over the hope firm to the end." ????? (1 Peter 1:10) Concerning this very salvation a diligent inquiry and a careful search were made by the prophets who prophesied about the undeserved kindness meant for YOU." I Know YOU Do Have HOPE! ? Â

Can You Find Peace in This Troubled World? ????? DO YOU live in peace? For many, the clear answer is no. They live in areas plagued by wars, political unrest, ethnic violence, or terrorism. ????? Even if you are spared such calamities, you might find your peace disturbed by crime, harassment, and quarrels with business partners or neighbors. Families too are often like war zones rather than havens of peace. ????? Many people yearn for inner peace. They may search for it in religion, meditation seminars, or yoga groups. Others hope to find peace in nature—taking vacation trips, hiking in mountains and wilderness areas, or visiting natural spas. Even if the searchers seem to find some inner peace, they may soon come to realize that such peace is superficial and short-lived. ????? So where can you find real peace? The source of peace is our Creator, Jehovah God. Why? He is the “God who gives peace.” (Romans 15:33) ????? Under the rule of his Kingdom that is soon to come, there will be an “abundance of peace.” (Psalm 72:7; Matthew 6:9, 10) ????? This is far more than just a feeble peace settlement. Such accords often herald little more than a brief interruption in hostilities. ????? But GodÂ’s peace will eliminate all causes of war and strife. In fact, no one will learn war anymore. (Psalm 46:8, 9) Real peace for all at last! ????? Learn about what the Bible teaches at: jw.org Â

DOES GOD REQUIRE CHRISTIANS TO PAY TITHE TODAY? ????? Answer :NO ? Tithing is not a Biblical requirement for Christians today. ????? It is true that the commandment to tithe a tenth of the produce of the land was part of the Law that God gave to the 12 tribes of ancient Israel more than 3,500 years ago. (Leviticus 27:30, 32; Numbers 18:21, 24) But the Bible states categorically that the sacrificial death of Jesus, in 33 C.E., "blotted out," or "abolished," the Law and with it the "commandment to collect tithes." (Colossians 2:13, 14; Ephesians 2:13-15; Hebrews 7:5, 18) A RELIGION THAT DOES NOT COLLECT TITHES ????? Today, some have expressed surprise when they discover a religion where there are no tithes, no collection plates and no collections are ever taken at their meetings. ????? The work of Jehovah's Witnesses is primarily financed through anonymous, voluntary contributions, as was true with the early Christians. (2 Cor. 8:12; 9:7) ????? We thus follow the Bible’s direction to Christians: “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”—2 Corinthians 9:7. ????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200275845 Visit jw.org for more information

Do You Imitate God's Loving-Kindness? ????? "From far away Jehovah appeared to me and said: “I have loved you with an everlasting love.That is why I have drawn you to me with loyal love." – (Jeremiah 31:3) ????? Loving-kindness is a precious quality of Jehovah God in which he delights, and it is manifest in all his dealings with his servants. (Ps 36:7; 62:12; Mic 7:18) Were this not the case, they would have perished long ago. (La 3:22) Thus, Moses could plead in behalf of rebellious Israel, both on the basis of JehovahÂ’s great name and because He is a God of loving-kindness.—Nu 14:13-19. ????? The Scriptures show that JehovahÂ’s loving-kindness, or loyal love, is displayed in a variety of ways and under different circumstances—in acts of deliverance and preservation (Ps 6:4;119:88, 159), as a safeguard and protection (Ps 40:11; 61:7; 143:12), and as a factor bringing relief from troubles (Ru 1:8; 2:20; Ps 31:16, 21). Because of it one may be recovered from sin (Ps 25:7), sustained, and upheld. (Ps 94:18;117:2) By it GodÂ’s chosen ones are assisted. (Ps 44:26) GodÂ’s loving-kindness was magnified in the cases of Lot (Ge 19:18-22), Abraham (Mic 7:20), and Joseph (Ge 39:21). It was also acknowledged in the choice of a wife for Isaac.—Ge 24:12-14, 27. ????? Loving-Kindness of Man. From the above it is apparent that those wishing to have GodÂ’s approval must “love kindness” and “carry on with one another loving-kindness and mercies.” (Mic 6:8;Zec 7:9) As the proverb says, “The desirable thing in earthling man is his loving-kindness,” and it brings him rich rewards. (Pr 19:22; 11:17) ????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200002612?q=jere+31%3A3&p=par

Beautiful Creatures of Jehovah! Let's praise His Name forever! ????? The music was just so good onboard this morning that this Mola Mola had to come check it out ? Credit: @montereyabalone The beluga whale or white whale is an Arctic and sub-Arctic cetacean. It is one of two members of the family Monodontidae, along with the narwhal, and the only member of the genus Delphinapterus.Wikipedia Conservation status: Near Threatened Encyclopedia of Life Mass: 3,000 lbs (Adult) Encyclopedia of Life Did you know: A beluga can nod and turn its head because, unlike most whales, its seven neck vertebrae are not fused. vanaqua.org BELUGA WHALE BASIC FACTS ABOUT BELUGA WHALES Adult beluga whales are easily distinguished by their often pure white skin, their small size and their lack of dorsal fin. Belugas have a broad, rounded head and a large forehead. They are well adapted to their arctic and sub-arctic environment, with a five-inch-thick layer of blubber and a tough dorsal ridge that helps them travel through sea ice waters. Belugas are toothed whales. They have broad, paddle-like flippers and notched tails. Because beluga whales eat marine species that are most common each season, they play an important role in the health of the overall ecosystem. They are also one of AlaskaÂ’s most well-known marine animals and a key draw for tourists and residents traveling along the coastal areas in the state. Diet Beluga whales are opportunistic feeders. They feed on salmon, eulachon, tomcod, smelt, char, rainbow sole, whitefish, saffron and arctic cod, herring, shrimp, mussels, octopus, crabs, clams, mussels, snails and sandworms. Population Though difficult to obtain an accurate count because they are so widely distributed, it is estimated that beluga whales number in the hundreds of thousands. Did You Know? Unlike other cetaceans, belugas can move their head up, down, and side-to-side because their cervical vertebrae are not fused. This adaptation is believed to help them maneuver and catch prey in silt-laden or ice-covered areas. Habitat & Range Beluga whales are distributed throughout seasonally ice-covered arctic and subarctic waters. They inhabit waters off the shores of Russia, Greenland, Canada, Norway and the United States (Alaska).  Genetic research has determined that there are five beluga whales stocks within U.S. waters: Cook Inlet, Bristol Bay, eastern Bering Sea, eastern Chukchi Sea and Beaufort Sea. Behavior Belugas forage for food in the water column and on the seabed. This typically takes place at depths of up to 1,000 feet, but they can dive to at least twice this depth. Belugas congregate and travel in groups from 2-3 to as many as several hundred. Some are migratory within their limited range, while others remain residents of a particular area. They are found close to shore or in the open sea. During the summer months in some areas they gather in the estuaries of rivers to feed and calve. Belugas use sound to find their prey. They also use sound to communicate and navigate by producing a variety of clicks, chirps and whistles. Reproduction Young belugas are usually dark grey in color. The grey steadily lightens as they grow up - reaching their permanent color by the age of seven for females and nine for males. Calves nurse for about two years. Mating Season: Late winter - early spring Gestation: 15 months Number of offspring: 1 calf http://www.defenders.org/beluga-whale/basic-facts Enjoy the Video of these Great Creatures Tap on Link  Â

A Marvel of Creation by Jehovah God! Amazing! Enjoy! ??????? The pilot fish is a carnivorous fish of the trevally, or jackfish family, Carangidae. It is widely distributed and lives in warm or tropical open seas video by- @shark_diver_llc & @sharkdiverapparel Tap on Link for MP4 Video ___ IMG_5378.MP4

People Were Very Loving and Kind! This Video will touch your heart! Animals helped during Hurricane Harvey Tap on Video Link ___ ??????????? T IMG_5238.MP4

Sweet Thing! ????? And I will stroll the merry way And jump the hedges first And I will drink the clear Clean water for to quench my thirst ??? And I shall watch the ferry-boats And they'll get high On a bluer ocean ? ??? Against tomorrow's sky And I will never grow so old again And I will walk and talk In gardens all wet with rain ??????? Oh sweet thing, sweet thing My, my, my, my, my sweet thing And I shall drive my chariot ??? Down your streets and cry 'Hey, it's me, I'm dynamite And I don't know why' And you shall take me strongly ???????? In your arms again And I will not remember That I even felt the pain. We shall walk and talk In gardens all misty and wet with rain And I will never, never, never Grow so old again. ? ?????? Oh sweet thing, sweet thing My, my, my, my, my sweet thing And I will raise my hand up Into the night time sky ????? And count the stars That's shining in your eye Just to dig it all an' not to wonder That's just fine And I'll be satisfied ????? Not to read in between the lines And I will walk and talk In gardens all wet with rain And I will never, ever, ever, ever Grow so old again. ??????? Oh sweet thing, sweet thing Sugar-baby with your champagne eyes And your saint-like smile Lyrics by  Van Morrison ???? Â

JehovahדProvider of Escape” in Bible Times “O God, do act quickly for me. You are my help and the Provider of escape for me.”—PS. 70:5. ????? An important question arises: Can we really expect Jehovah to respond to our prayers for help? The faith-strengthening answer is found in Psalm 70. This stirring psalm was written by David, aloyal worshipper of Jehovah who faced many difficult trials and challenges during his life. This inspired psalmist was moved to say of Jehovah: “O God, . . . you are my help and the Provider of escape for me.” (Ps. 70:5) An examination of Psalm 70 can help us to see why we too can turn to Jehovah in times of need and fully trust that he will be our “Provider ofescape.” ????? “You Are . . . the Provider of Escape” Psalm 70 begins and ends with an urgent cry for GodÂ’s help. (Read Psalm 70:1-5.) David implores Jehovah to “make haste” and to “act quickly” to deliver him. In the verses in-between, David makes five petitions, each beginning with “may” and expressing a desire, or wish. The first three are about those trying to kill him. David petitions Jehovah to defeat these enemies and shame them for their wickedness. The next two pleas, in verse 4, relate to GodÂ’s people. David prays that those seeking Jehovah be moved to rejoice and to magnify him. In concluding his psalm, David says to Jehovah: “You are my help and the Provider of escape for me.” Notice that David does not say, “May you prove to be,” as if making another petition. Instead, he says, “You are,” expressing his confidence. David believes that he will receive divine help. ????? What does Psalm 70 indicate about David? When he had been faced with determined enemies who were out to take his life, David chose not to take matters into his own hands. Instead, he trusted that Jehovah would deal with the opposers in his own time and way. (1 Sam. 26:10) David continued firmly convinced that Jehovah helps and delivers those who seek him. (Heb. 11:6) David believed that such true worshippers have every reason to rejoice and to magnify Jehovah by telling others about his greatness.—Ps. 5:11; 35:27. ????? Like David, we can have full confidence that Jehovah is our Helper and “the Provider of escape” for us. Hence, when we face difficult trials or feel in desperate need of assistance, we can rightly pray that Jehovah quickly come to our aid. (Ps. 71:12) What, though, may Jehovah do in response to our prayers for assistance? Before we discuss how Jehovah may help us, let us examine three ways in which he provided David with escape, helping him in times of urgent need. DavidÂ’s trust in “the Provider ofescape” did not waver. Concerning an upright worshipper who is ill, David said: “In the day of calamity Jehovah will provide escape for him. Jehovah himself will sustain him upon a divan of illness; all his bed you will certainly change during his sickness.” (Ps. 41:1, 3) Here again, notice DavidÂ’s confidence, as expressed in the words “Jehovahhimself will.” David was sure that Jehovah would provide escape for him. ????? David was just one of many worshippers for whom Jehovah provided escape in Bible times. Since DavidÂ’s time, God has time and again demonstrated the truthfulness of the apostle PeterÂ’s words: “Jehovah knows how to deliver people of godly devotion out of trial.” (2 Pet. 2:9) ????? It is faith-strengthening to reflect on the evidence that Jehovah helps his people. What he did in the past gives us basis for confidence. No matter what challenges we may be facing now or may yet encounter in the future, we too can put full trust in Jehovah as our “Provider of escape.” ????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2008682?q=jehovah+is+a+provider+of+escape&p=par

Give Honor to Whom It Is Due ????? “To the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb be the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever.”—REVELATION 5:13. ????? SHOW HONOR IN THE RIGHT WAY ????? * JehovahÂ’s Witnesses refrain from meddling in politics. * Christians willingly subject themselves to government authorities “in their relative positions "For the LordÂ’s sake subject yourselves to every human creation: whether to a king as being superior or to governors."—1 Pet. 2:13, 14. ????? We know that other humans should be honored, but it may be difficult to know what kind of honor to give them and how much. That is because most imperfect humans are strongly influenced by the attitudes in SatanÂ’s world. Many people make men or women their idols. Instead of giving them honor and respect as Jehovah intended, people give other humans too much honor, treating them like gods. They may imitate the clothing, conduct, and behavior of political and religious leaders, athletes, movie stars, and other celebrities. ????? True Christians know that it would be wrong to honor humans to that degree. Of all the people who have ever lived, only Jesus set a perfect example for us to imitate. (1 Peter 2:21) We need to remember that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) No human deserves to be worshipped. When we give humans more honor than we should, this makes Jehovah unhappy. ????? There are some people who deserve our honor or respect because of their position. For example, think about government officials and what they do for you. They help to keep neighborhoods safe and to care for the needs of their citizens. There are many benefits to their work. The apostle Paul said that we should view these government authorities as “superior authorities.” He also said that we should follow their laws: “Render to all their dues: to the one who calls for the tax, the tax,” and “to the one who calls for honor, such honor.”—Romans 13:1,7. ????? As JehovahÂ’s Witnesses, we do all we can to show government officials that we respect them. Of course, every country has unique customs, so what officials may expect from us in one place may be different from what they expect in another. Still, we cooperate with government officials as they do their work. However, if they ask us to do something that will cause us to disobey Jehovah, we cannot do that. In those cases, we obey and honor Jehovah rather than men.—Read 1 Peter 2:13-17. ????? The most important benefit of showing honor to others is that by doing so we please God. We will be doing what he wants us to do and will remain faithful to him. Jehovah can then reply to Satan, who said that no one can be faithful. (Proverbs 27:11) Most people in the world do not understand how to give honor to others in the right way. We are so grateful that we know how to give honor JehovahÂ’s way! ????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/402017322?q=1+peter+2%3A13%2C14&p=par#h=2

Throw All Your Anxiety on Jehovah ????? Our loving heavenly Father came to the aid of his servants in the past, and today he makes it possible for us to gain considerable relief from distress or anxiety. The Bible urges us: “Throw all your anxiety [“cares; worries,” ftn.] on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Pet. 5:7) How, though, can you do that? Let us consider four ways that you can do so—by means of heartfelt prayer, by reading GodÂ’s Word and meditating on it, by tapping into JehovahÂ’s holy spirit, and by sharing your feelings with a trusted confidant. As we examine these four ways, see if you can identify practical steps that you want to take. ????? “THROW YOUR BURDEN ON JEHOVAH” 1?? A first step we can take is to approach Jehovah in earnest prayer. When you are confronted by situations that cause uneasiness, apprehension, or anxiety, pour out your heart to your loving heavenly Father. The psalmist David begged Jehovah: “Listen to my prayer, O God.” Then in the same psalm, he said: “Throw your burden on Jehovah, and he will sustain you.” (Ps. 55:1, 22) After you have done all you can to solve a problem, heartfelt prayer will certainly accomplish more than worry. But how can prayer help you to avoid becoming overwhelmed by disquieting thoughts and anguish?—Ps. 94:18, 19, ftn. ????? INNER PEACE FROM GODÂ’S WORD  2?? A second way to gain inner peace is by reading Bible texts and meditating on them. Why is this important? The Bible contains practical spiritual guidance that can help you to avoid, reduce, or deal with anxiety. Do not overlook the fact that GodÂ’s Word is helpful and refreshing because it contains the CreatorÂ’s own words of wisdom. As you reflect on GodÂ’s thoughts—day or night—and consider how best to use the BibleÂ’s practical guidance, you will be greatly strengthened. Jehovah specifically linked reading his Word with being “courageous and strong” and not being “struck with terror or fear.”—Josh. 1:7-9. ????? HEARTFELT COMMUNICATION 4?? A fourth way to help you cope with anxiety is good communication, sharing your feelings with a trusted confidant. A marriage mate, a close friend, or a congregation elder may be able to help you to put your anxiety into perspective. “Anxiety in a manÂ’s heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up.” (Prov. 12:25) Frank and honest communication can do much to help you to understand and deal with your concerns. The Bible tells us: “Plans fail when there is no consultation, but there is accomplishment through many advisers.”—Prov. 15:22. ????? GODLY QUALITIES PRODUCED BY GODÂ’S SPIRIT ????? Jesus promised that our Father in heaven will not fail to give holy spirit to those asking Him. (Luke 11:10-13) This puts at your disposal a third, powerful means to alleviate anxiety—the fruitage of the spirit. These positive qualities that are produced by GodÂ’s active force reflect the very personality of the almighty God. (Read Galatians 5:22, 23; Col. 3:10) As you cultivate the fruitage of that spirit, your relationship with others will improve. Thus, you will find that many situations that could otherwise cause anxiety do not arise. Reflect briefly on how the fruitage of the spirit will help you. ????? Some Practical Ways to Reduce Anxiety ? ?Set appropriate priorities. PHILIPPIANS 1:10, 11 ?Have realistic expectations. ECCLESIASTES 7:16 ?Make room in your schedule for some quiet time each day. MATTHEW 14:23 ?Enjoy JehovahÂ’s creation. PSALM 104:24, 25 ?Keep a sense of humor. PROVERBS 17:22 ?Get regular exercise. 1 TIMOTHY 4:8 ?Get sufficient sleep. ECCLESIASTES 4:6  https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2016922?q=1+peter+5%3A7&p=par

Strengthen Your Trust in Jehovah! - We May Also Be Thrown In Places Like This! - Where is Your Trust or Do You Have Fear? ????? In the Persian Empire in the days of the prophet Daniel, this took place. The law, which King Darius did enact, stipulated: “Whoever makes a petition to any god or man for thirty days except to [the] king should be thrown to the lionsÂ’ pit.”—Daniel 6:7-9 ????? What would Daniel do under the threat of death? Would he continue to trust in his God, Jehovah, or would he compromise and do as the king dictated? The record tells us: “Daniel, as soon as he knew that the writing had been signed, entered into his house, and, the windows in his roof chamber being open for him toward Jerusalem, even three times in a day he was kneeling on his knees and praying and offering praise before his God, as he had been regularly doing prior to this.” (Daniel 6:10) ????? The rest of the account is well-known. Daniel was thrown into the lionsÂ’ den for his faith, but Jehovah “stopped the mouths of lions” and rescued his loyal servant.—Hebrews 11:33; Daniel 6:16-22 ????? As the world approaches its catastrophic end, JehovahÂ’s people are bound to experience more trials and dangers. (Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:12) ????? By building up strong and implicit trust in Jehovah now, we can look forward to survival into his promised new world—either by living through the great tribulation or by receiving a resurrection. (2 Peter 3:13) ????? May we never allow any lack of trust on our part to damage our precious relationship with Jehovah. Then, what was said of Daniel after he was delivered from the lionsÂ’ den can also be said of us: “There was no hurt at all found on him, because he had trusted in his God.”—Daniel 6:23. - JW.ORG Â

How to Build a Happy Marriage ??????????? "Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate." – Eph. 4:32. ????????? OUR Maker, Jehovah God, instituted marriage as a permanent union between a man and a woman. Says Genesis 2:18, 22-24: “Jehovah God went on to say: ‘It is not good for the man to continue by himself. I am going to make a helper for him, as a complement of him.Â’ And Jehovah God proceeded to build the rib that he had taken from the man into a woman and to bring her to the man. Then the man said: ‘This is at last bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh. This one will be called Woman, because from man this one was taken.Â’ That is why a man will leave his father and his mother and he must stick to his wife and they must become one flesh.” ??????????? True, building a lasting, happy marriage is not easy, but it is certainly possible. Many couples have been happily married for 50, 60, or more years. How do they do it? They work at their marriage continually and unselfishly to “gain the approval” of their mate. (1 Corinthians 7:33, 34) That takes work. If you are willing to invest the time and effort, you too can build a happy marriage, one that will last a long time. ??????????? What can sustain marital commitment? The apostle Paul wrote: “Husbands ought to be loving their wives as their own bodies.” (Ephesians 5:28, 29) In part, then, being “joined together” means that you feel as concerned about the welfare of your mate as you do about your own. Married people need to shift their thinking from “mine” to “ours,” from “me” to “we.” ??????????? Successfully weathering stormy attacks on your marriage will make you wise. Such acquired wisdom can result in happiness. “Happy is the man that has found wisdom,” notes Proverbs 3:13. ??????????? What Can Help You to Build a Happy Marriage? ?? Study GodÂ’s Word along with your mate regularly, and pray to God for help and guidance in resolving problems.—Proverbs 3:5, 6; Philippians 4:6, 7; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. ?? Confine sexual interest exclusively to your mate.—Proverbs 5:15-21; Hebrews 13:4. ?? Communicate openly, honestly, and lovingly about your problems and differences.—Proverbs 15:22; 20:5; 25:11. ?? Speak to your mate in a kind, considerate manner; avoid outbursts of anger, nagging, and harsh critical remarks.—Proverbs 15:1; 20:3; 21:9; 31:26, 28; Ephesians 4:31, 32. ?? Humbly apply Bible counsel even if you feel that your mate is not doing everything he or she should be doing.—Romans 14:12; 1 Peter 3:1, 2. ?? Work hard to cultivate the spiritual qualities mentioned in the Bible.—Galatians 5:22, 23; Colossians 3:12-14; 1 Peter 3:3-6. ??????????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102006242?q=eph+4%3A32&p=par Â

"I set the pattern for you, that, just as I did to you, you should do also."—John 13:15. ?????? Jesus Set the Pattern of Humility IT IS the final night of JesusÂ’ life on earth, and he spends it with his apostles in the upper room of a house in Jerusalem. During the course of the evening meal, Jesus gets up and puts aside his outer garments. He girds himself with a towel. Then he puts water into a basin and begins to wash the feet of the disciples and to dry them off with the towel. He then puts on his outer garments. Why did Jesus perform this humble act?—John 13:3-5. ?????? Jesus himself explained: “Do you know what I have done to you? . . . If I, although Lord and Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash the feet of one another. For I set the pattern for you, that, just as I did to you, you should do also.” (John 13:12-15) By displaying a willingness to perform such a lowly task, Jesus gave his apostles an object lesson that would be deeply engraved on their minds and would encourage them to be humble in the days ahead. ?????? When Jesus washed the feet of the apostles, it was not the first time he highlighted the value of humility. On an earlier occasion when some of the apostles showed a competitive spirit, Jesus set a young child beside him, and He told them: “Whoever receives this young child on the basis of my name receives me too, and whoever receives me receives him also that sent me forth. For he that conducts himself as a lesser one among all of you is the one that is great.” (Luke 9:46-48) Aware that the Pharisees sought prominence, Jesus said later in his ministry: “Everyone that exalts himself will be humbled and he that humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11) Clearly, Jesus wants his followers to be humble, that is, lowly in mind and free of pride and arrogance. With a view to imitating him, let us carefully examine his example of humility. We will also see how this quality benefits not only the one displaying it but others as well. ?????? “When [Jesus] found himself in fashion as a man,” wrote Paul, “he humbled himself and became obedient as far as death, yes, death on a torture stake.” (Phil. 2:8) From his childhood on, Jesus left us a pattern of humility. Although he was raised by imperfect parents—Joseph and Mary—Jesus humbly “continued subject to them.” (Luke 2:51) What a fine example that is for young ones, who will be blessed by God for their willing subjection to their parents! ?????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2012843?q=john+13%3A15&p=par#h=1

"I consider it right . . . to rouse you up by way of reminding you."—2 Pet. 1:13. ????? When the apostle Peter wrote his second inspired letter, the Christian congregation had already endured much persecution, but this had not dampened its zeal or slowed its growth. So the Devil employed another tactic, one that had succeeded many times before. As revealed by Peter, Satan tried to corrupt GodÂ’s people by means of false teachers who had “eyes full of adultery” and “a heart trained in covetousness.” (2 Pet. 2:1-3, 14; Jude 4) ????? Accordingly, PeterÂ’s second letter is a heartfelt exhortation to faithfulness. Peter desired that his timely reminders would live on. (2 Pet. 1:15) And, indeed, they became part of the Bible and can be read by all of us today. Chapter 3 of PeterÂ’s second letter is of particular interest to us, for it focuses on “the last days” of the present system of things and on the destruction of the figurative heavens and earth.—2 Pet. 3:3, 7, 10. ????? w10 7/15 2:1, 2 Â

"I got much joy and comfort over your love."—Philem. 7. ????? Early Christians received much support by encouraging one another and building one another up in love. ????? (1 Cor. 16:17, 18) "May YOU also keep submitting yourselves to persons of that kind and to everyone cooperating and laboring.17 But I rejoice over the presence* of Steph?a·nas and For·tu·na?tus and A·cha?i·cus, because they have made up for YOUR not being here. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and YOURS. Therefore recognize men of that sort." ????? (Eph. 4:11, 12, 16) "And he gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers, 12 with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, for ministerial work, for the building up of the body of the Christ. From him all the body, by being harmoniously joined together and being made to cooperate through every joint that gives what is needed, according to the functioning of each respective member in due measure, makes for the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love." When Titus went to Corinth to minister to the brothers there, Paul wrote back to the congregation, saying: “His spirit has been refreshed by all of you.” (2 Cor. 7:13) ????? Likewise today, JehovahÂ’s Witnesses find genuine refreshment through upbuilding Christian fellowship. You know from experience that congregation meetings are a source of great joy. There we find an “interchange of encouragement . . . each one through the otherÂ’s faith.” (Rom. 1:12) ????? Our Christian brothers and sisters are not mere passing acquaintances, superficial associates with whom we casually meet now and again. They are true friends, people we love and respect. ????? We receive much joy and comfort by regularly assembling with them at our meetings. Learn about Jehovah's Witnesses at:JW.ORG

Is It Possible to Build Faith in a Creator? ????????? “WHEN I thought about the possibility of a Creator, it made me angry to think that someone might have the power to prevent human suffering but was not prepared to use it!” Thus said one former atheist who lost family members in the Holocaust. He was hardly alone in feeling as he did. ????????? When faced with atrocities, many find it difficult to believe in God, or they seek solace in the idea that God does not exist. What are the major factors that cause some not to believe? Would humankind be better off, as some think, without God or religion? Is it possible for an atheist to build faith in a loving Creator? ????????? ReligionÂ’s Failure Ironically, a leading cause of atheism is religion. Historian Alister McGrath explains: “What propels people toward atheism is above all a sense of revulsion against the excesses and failures of organized religion.” Religion is often seen as a factor behind wars and violence. An atheist and philosopher named Michel Onfray muses on how it is possible that the same religious book could inspire two types of men, one “aspiring to saintliness,” the other “carrying out an act of inhuman cruelty”—terrorism. ????????? Better Off Without God? Not surprisingly, then, many people view religion as an obstacle to human progress and peace. Some have even asked themselves if humankind would be better off without God and religion. However, would such a wholesale rejection of religious thinking bring its own problems? ????????? Further Causes of Disbelief Many are taught that evolution is an established fact. Anila, for example, was educated in atheistic Albania. “In school, we were taught that to believe in God was naive and backward,” she relates. “I regularly learned wonderful things about plants and organic life, but I attributed everything to evolution, since this made us look as if we were in harmony with scientific thinking.” She admits today that the “proofs that were given had to be accepted blindly.” ????????? A sense of bitterness may pose an obstacle to some. JehovahÂ’s Witnesses often encounter this attitude when they go from door to door, offering hope from the Bible. Bertil, mentioned earlier, received such a visit from a young Witness. Bertil remembers saying to himself: ‘Poor fanatic. You have come to the wrong place!Â’ He says: “I let him in and began to vent my indignation concerning God, the Bible, and religion.” ????????? MankindÂ’s Creator and You Religious hypocrisy, such atheistic teachings as evolution, and the prevalence of wickedness have caused many to doubt or even deny the existence of a Creator. ????????? However, if you allow it to, the Bible can provide satisfying answers to your questions. It also reveals GodÂ’s thoughts, “thoughts of peace, and not of calamity, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) For Bernadette, whose child was born disabled and who doubted the existence of a Creator, that hope became like a comforting dressing on the wounds of her personal suffering. ????????? The BibleÂ’s explanation of GodÂ’s permission of suffering has touched the mind and heart of many former atheists. By taking the time to find the BibleÂ’s answer to such vital questions, you too may come to be convinced that there is a God who is, in fact, “not far off from each one of us.”—Acts 17:27 ????????? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2009724?q=build+faith+in+a+creator&p=par