SA42 - Are You “Ready to Obey”?

Summary:
As imperfect beings, we all grapple with obedience at times, even when the one providing guidance rightfully holds authority. This article explored the advantages bestowed upon those who heed the guidance of their parents, the "superior authorities," and the leaders within the Christian congregation.

Challenges of Obedience:

• Struggling with obedience is a common human experience, as even King David faced this challenge.
• Inherited tendency to be disobedient, external pressure from Satan, and the world's rebellious attitude contribute to this struggle.
• Effort is required to resist these influences and to obey both Jehovah and appointed authorities.

Understanding "Ready to Obey" (James 3:17):

• Wise individuals are described as being "ready to obey," indicating eagerness and willingness to follow authority.
• Obedience does not extend to commands that contradict Jehovah's principles.

Importance of Obedience to Authority:

• Obedience extends to those with authority, recognizing that imperfect humans also have been entrusted with authority by Jehovah.
• Obedience to parents, government officials, and elders is viewed as obedience to Jehovah.

OBEY YOUR PARENTS

Challenges for Youth:

• Many youths disobey due to perceiving parental hypocrisy, outdated advice, or overly strict rules.
• The Bible's counsel emphasizes righteous obedience to parents in union with the Lord.

Example of Jesus' Obedience:

• Jesus, despite having imperfect parents, honored and obeyed them, setting an example for young ones.
• Even when facing misunderstandings and mistakes, Jesus remained subject to his parents.

Help for Young People:

• Obedience to parents pleases Jehovah and builds trust and closeness with parents.
• Obedience now contributes to personal growth and future obedience to Jehovah and other authorities.
• Benefits of Obedience for Youths:
• Positive outcomes observed by youths who choose to obey their parents.
• Obedience seen as a protective measure rather than a restriction.

OBEY "THE SUPERIOR AUTHORITIES"

Acknowledging Secular Authorities:

• Recognition of the need for secular governments and the acknowledgment of the need to obey laws set by them.
• A challenge arises when laws seem unfair or demanding.

Understanding Relative Subjection:

• Acknowledgment that human governments may cause suffering and are under Satan's control.
• Obedience to secular authorities is part of Jehovah's temporary arrangement for maintaining order.

Examples of Joseph and Mary's Obedience:

• Joseph and Mary's journey for a census demonstrates obedience to inconvenient laws.
• Despite discomfort, their obedience led to blessings, fulfilling Bible prophecy.

Impact of Obedience on Fellow Believers:

• Personal obedience helps avoid punishment and positively affects how authorities view Jehovah's Witnesses.
• Personal obedience contributes to the overall reputation of Jehovah's people.

Overcoming Challenges to Obedience:

• A sister's experience shows the challenge of obedience due to family injustice.
• Changing thinking, prayer, and focusing on publications about neutrality aid in overcoming challenges to obedience.

OBEY DIRECTION FROM JEHOVAH’S ORGANIZATION:

Obedience to Congregation Leaders:

• Obedience urged to those taking the lead in the congregation, recognizing imperfection in human leaders.
• Hesitation to obey may arise when direction seems unreasonable or unfamiliar.

Paul's Example of Obedience:

• Paul's readiness to obey even when receiving direction that seemed unreasonable.
• Obedience promotes unity among fellow believers.

Learning from Personal Experiences:

• A sister's initial unhappiness with a decision eventually led to understanding and a clear conscience.
• Accepting and supporting new directions can lead to unforeseen blessings.

Learning Obedience Under Challenging Circumstances:

• Obedience, like Jesus, is learned through challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic instructions.
• Obedience during difficult times prepares for potential challenges during the great tribulation.

Motivation for Obedience:

• Obedience is a choice driven by love for Jehovah and a desire to please him.
• The wise bring joy to Jehovah's heart by demonstrating obedience.

Do you have a comment that did not get mentioned during the Watchtower study? What encouraging observations would you like to point out? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.