CHAPTER 15 *** w14 8/15 p. 20 pars How Jehovah Draws Close to Us ***

Transcription

1 2 Chronicles Jehovah s Word Is Alive Highlights From the Book of 2 Chronicles CHAPTER 15 *** w14 8/15 p. 20 pars How Jehovah Draws Close to Us *** 17 After King Asa won a resounding victory over the Ethiopian army, God s prophet Azariah had some words of wisdom for him and his people. Azariah said: Jehovah is with you as long as you remain with him; and if you search for him, he will let himself be found by you, but if you abandon him, he will abandon you. (2 Chron. 15:1, 2) Later in life, though, Asa failed to heed that good counsel. When threatened by the rival northern kingdom of Israel, Asa turned to the Syrians for assistance. Rather than calling out again to Jehovah for help, he sought an alliance with pagans. Appropriately, Asa was told: You have acted foolishly in this matter; from now on there will be wars against you. The remaining years of Asa s rule were marred by continual warfare. (2 Chron. 16:1-9) What is the lesson for us? 18 We should never draw away from Jehovah. If we have allowed some distance to develop between him and us, we should act in accord with Hosea 12:6, which states: Return to your God, maintain loyal love and justice, and always hope in your God. Let us, then, draw closer and closer to Jehovah by reflecting appreciatively on the ransom and by diligently studying his Word, the Bible. Read Deuteronomy 13:4. 19 Drawing near to God is good for me, wrote the psalmist. (Ps. 73:28) May all of us continue to learn new things about Jehovah and come to appreciate even more the many reasons to love him. And may Jehovah draw ever closer to us now and throughout all eternity! *** w12 8/15 p. 9 There Exists a Reward for Your Activity *** On his return from battle, Asa was met by Azariah. This prophet gave both encouragement and a warning: Hear me, O Asa and all Judah and Benjamin! Jehovah is with you as long as you prove to be with him; and if you search for him, he will let himself be found by you, but if you leave him he will leave you.... Be courageous and do not let your hands drop down, because there exists a reward for your activity. 2 Chron. 15:1, 2, 7. These words can strengthen our faith. They show that Jehovah will be with us as long as we serve him faithfully. When we cry out to him for help, we can be confident that he hears us. Be courageous, said Azariah. It often takes great courage to do what is right, but we know that we can do so with Jehovah s help.

2 *** w05 4/15 p. 16 par. 5 Let God s Word Light Your Roadway *** King Asa searched for God and rooted out apostasy in Judah. At a great assembly in the 15th year of Asa s reign (963 B.C.E.), Judah s inhabitants entered into a covenant to search for Jehovah. God let himself be found by them and continued to give them rest all around. (2 Chronicles 15:10-15) This example should encourage a renewed search for God by any who have drifted away from the Christian congregation. He will bless and protect those who resume active association with his people. *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 4 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 15:9; 34:6 What was the standing of the tribe of Simeon with respect to the division of the kingdom of Israel? Having received as an inheritance various enclaves in Judah, the tribe of Simeon was geographically within the kingdom of Judah and Benjamin. (Joshua 19:1) Religiously and politically, however, the tribe aligned itself with the northern kingdom. (1 Kings 11:30-33; 12:20-24) Hence, Simeon was counted with the ten-tribe kingdom. *** w99 6/1 p. 26 Rejoice in Jehovah and Be Joyful *** Next on the program was Gilead instructor Lawrence Bowen. The theme of his presentation raised the question, What Will You Prove to Be? He showed that success in God s service depends on faith and trust in Jehovah. Complete reliance on Jehovah brought King Asa a resounding victory over an enemy army of one million men. Yet he was reminded by the prophet Azariah of the need to continue relying on God: Jehovah is with you as long as you prove to be with him. (2 Chronicles 14:9-12; 15:1, 2) Since God s name, Jehovah, conveys the thought that he proves to be whatever is needed to fulfill his purpose whether that means being a Provider, a Protector, or even an Executioner missionaries who rely on Jehovah and who work in harmony with his purpose will prove to be successful in their assignments. (Exodus 3:14) Never forget, concluded Brother Bowen, that as long as you make Jehovah s purpose your purpose, he will cause you to become whatever is needed to fulfill your assignment. *** w93 11/15 p. 17 par. 20 Courageously Walk in Jehovah s Ways *** 20 Because of King Asa s desire to honor God and promote pure worship, he rid Judah of idols and male temple prostitutes. He also removed his apostate grandmother from her high position and burned her horrible idol. (1 Kings 15:11-13) Yes, Asa took courage and proceeded to cause the disgusting things to vanish from all the land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities that he had captured from the mountainous region of Ephraim, and to renew Jehovah s altar that was before the porch of Jehovah. (2 Chronicles 15:8) Do you also courageously reject apostasy and promote pure worship? Are you using your material resources to advance Kingdom interests? And are you seeking to honor Jehovah by having a regular share in declaring the good news as one of his Witnesses?

3 CHAPTER 16 *** w14 4/15 p. 26 par. 20 Be of Good Courage Jehovah Is Your Helper! *** Yes, your heavenly Father, Jehovah, loves you and wants only the best for you and your children. The eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. (2 Chron. 16:9) He has given us his commandments including those relating to family life and material needs for our benefit. When we follow them, we show that we love him and trust in him. This is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome. 1 John 5:3. *** w14 4/15 p. 31 par. 17 Do You Appreciate Jehovah s Watchful Care? *** 17 Finally, God examines our life for a most reassuring reason. By means of Hanani the seer, He declared to King Asa: The eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. (2 Chron. 16:9) While God did not see a complete heart in Asa, he will show his strength toward you if you keep on doing what is right. *** w14 7/15 p. 10 par. 13 Jehovah Knows Those Who Belong to Him *** 13 We can likewise derive spiritual strength from Paul s inspired words. First of all, it is reassuring to know that Jehovah is well-aware of our loyalty to him. This is not a passive awareness. Rather, Jehovah is intensely interested in those who belong to him. The Bible says: The eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. (2 Chron. 16:9) Therefore, we can have absolute confidence that what we do for Jehovah out of a clean heart is never in vain. 1 Tim. 1:5; 1 Cor. 15:58. *** w14 9/15 p. 11 par. 16 Are You Convinced That You Have the Truth? Why? *** 16 A married sister who is serving at the world headquarters in New York commented about Jehovah s organization: It is the only one that unwaveringly proclaims Jehovah s name. How logical that is when we recall that the divine name appears some 7,000 times in the Bible! I appreciate the encouragement found at 2 Chronicles 16:9: The eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. She continues: The truth has shown me how to have a complete heart so that Jehovah can freely show his strength toward me. My relationship with Jehovah is most precious to me. And I appreciate Jesus role in providing intimate knowledge of God that sustains me. *** w12 1/15 p. 12 par. 16 Learn Watchfulness From Jesus Apostles *** 16 Is it not faith-strengthening to contemplate Jehovah s power to rescue his servants? Of course, we do not expect Jehovah to deliver us miraculously at this time. However, we have full faith that he uses his power in behalf of his people today. (2 Chron. 16:9) By means of his powerful holy spirit, he can make us equal to any trial we may face. (2 Cor. 4:7; 2 Pet. 2:9) And Jehovah will soon empower his Son to free countless millions from that most unyielding of prisons, death. (John 5:28, 29) Our faith in God s promises can give us tremendous courage when we face trials today.

4 *** w10 4/15 p. 11 par. 16 Holy Spirit s Role in the Outworking of Jehovah s Purpose *** 16 In the future, Jehovah will employ his holy spirit in remarkable ways to accomplish the fulfillment of his purpose. Consider first the matter of protection. As we have seen, Jehovah used his spirit in the past to protect individuals as well as the nation of Israel as a whole. Hence, we have every reason to believe that he will use that same powerful spirit to protect his people during the approaching great tribulation. We need not speculate about exactly how Jehovah will care for us then. Rather, we can look to the future with confidence, knowing that lovers of Jehovah will never be hidden from his view or beyond the reach of his holy spirit. 2 Chron. 16:9; Ps. 139:7-12. *** w09 6/15 p. 8 par. 8 Be Zealous for Jehovah s House! *** 8 Sadly, Asa later resented correction from Hanani the seer. (2 Chron. 16:7-10) How do we react when Jehovah offers us advice or direction through Christian elders? Do we promptly take to heart their Scripturally based counsel and avoid falling into the trap of resentment? *** w08 10/15 p. 7 par. 2 Jehovah Watches Us for Our Good *** 2 Jehovah is matchless in power and sees all. For that reason, he can come to the aid of his loyal ones whenever they call on him, and he can support them during their trials. [Jehovah s] eyes are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him, says 2 Chronicles 16:9. Note that Jehovah uses his strength in behalf of those who serve him with a complete heart, a heart that is pure and sincere in motive. He shows no such concern for those who are deceitful or hypocritical. Josh. 7:1, 20, 21, 25; Prov. 1: *** w08 12/15 pp. 3-4 par. 5 Why Keep Your Integrity? *** 5 The idea of seeking and valuing that which is whole, or complete, is not strange. Imagine, for instance, a book collector who finds a precious volume after a long search, only to discover that it is missing several vital pages. Disappointed, he may put it back on the shelf. Or picture a woman walking on a beach, collecting some of the shells cast ashore by the waves. Fascinated by the variety and beauty of these creations, she now and again stoops to examine one. Which ones does she keep? The ones that are whole, intact. Similarly, God is seeking people who have this quality of wholeness, or completeness. 2 Chron. 16:9. *** w05 4/15 p. 28 Does Your Faith Move You to Action? *** Jehovah is well-aware of the effort we put forth to serve him. He knows, for example, when we are sick or weary. He is aware of our insecurities and self-doubts. When financial burdens weigh us down or when our health or our emotions seem to betray us, Jehovah is ever mindful of our situation. 2 Chronicles 16:9; 1 Peter 3:12. How delighted Jehovah must be when despite our imperfections and difficulties, our faith moves us to action! The tender regard that Jehovah has for his faithful servants is not just a vague feeling it is backed up with a promise.

5 *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 5 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 16:13, 14 Was Asa cremated? No, the extraordinarily great funeral burning refers, not to the cremation of Asa, but to the burning of spices. Footnote. *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 8 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 16:1-5, 7; 18:1-3, 28-32; 21:4-6; 22:10-12; 28: Alliances with foreigners or nonbelievers have tragic consequences. We are wise to avoid any unnecessary involvement with the world. John 17:14, 16; James 4:4. *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 9 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 16:7-12; 26:16-21; 32:25, 26. Haughtiness caused King Asa to behave badly during the last years of his life. A haughty spirit led to Uzziah s downfall. Hezekiah acted unwisely and perhaps proudly when he showed Babylonian emissaries his treasury. (Isaiah 39:1-7) Pride is before a crash, warns the Bible, and a haughty spirit before stumbling. Proverbs 16:18. *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 10 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 16:9. Jehovah helps those whose heart is complete toward him, and he is eager to use his power in their behalf. *** w03 4/15 pp pars. 4-5 Youths Jehovah Will Not Forget Your Work! *** Jehovah is looking for opportunities to do this. A righteous prophet in ancient Israel stated: As regards Jehovah, his eyes are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. 2 Chronicles 16:9. 5 One of the finest ways you can show that your heart is complete toward Jehovah is to talk to others about him. Have you ever had the opportunity to speak to some of your schoolmates about your faith? At first, doing this may seem daunting, and the very idea might cause a bit of fear. What if they laugh at me? you may ask. What if they think that my religion is strange? Jesus acknowledged that not everyone would listen to the Kingdom message. (John 15:20) This does not mean, however, that you are doomed to a life of ridicule and rejection. On the contrary, many Witness youths have found a listening ear and have even commanded greater respect from their peers by standing up for their convictions.

6 *** w00 3/1 p. 15 par. 5 Search for Jehovah and His Strength *** 5 After many years of faithful service, however, Asa s confidence in Jehovah s saving power faltered. To avert a military threat from the northern kingdom of Israel, he turned to Syria for help. (2 Chronicles 16:1-3) Although his bribe to the Syrian King Ben-hadad did result in removing the threat Israel posed to Judah, Asa s covenant with Syria showed a lack of confidence in Jehovah. Hanani the prophet pointedly asked him: Did not the Ethiopians and the Libyans themselves happen to be a very great military force in multitude, in chariots and in horsemen; and because of your leaning upon Jehovah did he not give them into your hand? (2 Chronicles 16:7, 8) Nevertheless, Asa rejected this reproof. (2 Chronicles 16:9-12) When faced with problems, let us not rely on human solutions. Instead, let us display confidence in God, for trusting in the power of men will inevitably lead to disappointment. Psalm 146:3-5. *** w86 9/15 pp pars. 8-9 Skillful Counselors A Blessing to Their Brothers *** 8 On occasion, though, counsel has to be offered to those who do not expect it or do not want it. Perhaps someone is losing his zeal in Jehovah s service, drifting away as Terri s friend was. (Hebrews 2:1) A person may be having a serious personal difference with another individual in the congregation. (Philippians 4:2) Or someone may need help in the matter of proper grooming or dress, or in the choice of friends or music. 1 Corinthians 15:33; 1 Timothy 2:9. 9 When the prophet Hanani offered counsel to King Asa of Judah, Asa resented it so much that he put him in the house of the stocks! (2 Chronicles 16:7-10) A person had to be courageous to counsel a king in those days. Today, counselors may also need to be courageous, since giving counsel may initially cause resentment. One experienced Christian held back from offering needed counsel to a younger associate. The reason? He explained: We are good friends right now, and I want to keep it that way! Really, though, holding back from giving help when needed is not the mark of a good friend. Proverbs 27:6; compare James 4:17. *** w75 11/1 pp Let Anger Alone *** Take the case of a person who is corrected because of being guilty of some neglect or wrong. If he lets pride get in the way, he may become very angry about this. That is what happened to Judean King Asa. When corrected by the prophet Hanani for having shown a lack of faith, Asa became very angry. He put Hanani in the house of the stocks and also began oppressing others of his subjects. (2 Chron. 16:7-10) Instead of giving vent to anger, Asa should have taken the reasonable view of the situation. He should have kept in mind that Hanani was speaking, not of his own originality, but as Jehovah s messenger. It was a time for Asa to acknowledge his wrong and to express sincere repentance. Humility could have helped Asa to keep anger in check. So if we are going to heed the Bible s counsel to let anger alone, we, too, need to cultivate humility.

7 *** g 4/12 p. 28 Why Commend Others? *** Because he is deeply interested in us, God notices and appreciates our fine qualities and deeds. The Bible assures us: [God s] eyes are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. (2 Chronicles 16:9) When we show our love for God by obeying his laws, he is sure to notice it. Jehovah God does not look for our faults. If he did, none of us could stand. (Psalm 130:3) Instead, Jehovah is like a miner who patiently sifts through piles of stones looking for precious gems. When the miner finds a gem, he rejoices. The rough stone may not look precious, but the miner sees its potential value. Similarly, when God searches our heart, he is looking for precious qualities, not faults. When he finds them, he rejoices. He knows that those qualities, when shaped and polished, can produce something truly valuable a faithful and devoted worshipper of Jehovah. We can learn from God s example. When we look at others, we might be prone to focus on their faults. Yet, if we look at people as Jehovah does, we will search out their fine attributes. (Psalm 103:8-11, 17, 18) When we find their precious qualities, we can commend them. With what result? Our words will surely refresh them, and they may try even harder to do what is right! In turn, we will experience the joy that comes from giving to others. Acts 20:35. CHAPTER 17 *** km 12/10 p. 3 Theocratic Ministry School Review *** How might 2 Chronicles 17:9, 10 be applied in principle to our ministry? [w09 6/15 p. 12 par. 7] 7 When we engage in the house-tohouse ministry, how thoroughly do we cover our assigned territory? Interestingly, in the third year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent for five princes, nine Levites, and two priests. He had them travel through all the cities to teach the people Jehovah s laws. So effective was their campaign that the people of the surrounding nations began to fear Jehovah. (Read 2 Chronicles 17:9, 10.) By visiting homes at various times on different days, we may be able to speak with several members of a household.

8 *** w03 5/1 p. 9 par. 5 Do You Ask, Where Is Jehovah? *** 5 In the days of King Jehoshaphat, the fifth king in the royal line descended from David, the combined forces of three nations came up to war against Judah. Faced with this national emergency, Jehoshaphat set his face to search for Jehovah. (2 Chronicles 20:1-3) This was not the first time that Jehoshaphat had searched for Jehovah. The king had shunned the Baal worship indulged in by the apostate northern kingdom of Israel and had chosen to walk in Jehovah s ways. (2 Chronicles 17:3, 4) *** w01 10/1 p. 10 pars Imitate Jehovah When Training Your Children *** 10 To be successful in training children, parents must strive to keep open the lines of communication with their young ones. Jehovah, though fully aware of what is in our heart, encourages us to communicate with him. (1 Chronicles 28:9) After giving the Israelites the Law, Jehovah assigned the Levites to instruct them, and he sent the prophets to reason with them and to correct them. He also showed a willingness to hear their prayers. 2 Chronicles 17:7-9; Psalm 65:2; Isaiah 1:1-3, 18-20; Jeremiah 25:4; Galatians 3: How can parents imitate Jehovah when they communicate with their children? First and foremost, they must make time for them. Parents also do well to avoid thoughtless comments that ridicule, such as, Is that all? I thought it was something important ; That is silly ; Well, what do you expect? You are just a child. (Proverbs 12:18) To encourage children to open up, wise parents endeavor to be good listeners. Parents who ignore their children when the children are little may find themselves ignored when the children are older. Jehovah has always been willing to listen to his people. He keeps his ear open to those who humbly turn to him in prayer Psalm 91:15; Jeremiah 29:12; Luke 11:9-13. *** w01 10/1 p. 21 What Does It Mean to Be Loyal? *** Jehovah took the initiative to provide for the needs of the Israelites and to strengthen their ties with him. He delivered them from Egypt, organized them into a nation, and brought them into a land flowing with milk and honey. (Exodus 3:8) He provided regular spiritual instruction through the priests, Levites, and a steady stream of prophets and messengers. (2 Chronicles 17:7-9; Nehemiah 8:7-9; Jeremiah 7:25) CHAPTER 18 *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 11 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 18:12, 13, 23, 24, 27. Like Micaiah, we should be courageous and bold in speaking about Jehovah and his purposes. *** w93 8/1 p. 20 par. 21 Let No One Spoil Your Useful Habits *** 21 All of us need association. We must be alert, though, to the fact that our associates can affect us, for good or for bad. That proved true with Adam and with everyone over the centuries since then. For example, Jehoshaphat, a good king of Judah, enjoyed Jehovah s favor and blessing. But after he permitted his son to marry the daughter of King Ahab of Israel, Jehoshaphat began to associate with Ahab. That bad association nearly cost Jehoshaphat his life. (2 Kings 8:16-18; 2 Chronicles 18:1-3, 29-31) If we make unwise choices as to our associations, it can be just as dangerous.

9 CHAPTER 19 POINT TMS How does the way in which Jehovah dealt with King Jehoshaphat s failings assure us of God s love, and how should this affect our view of others? (2 Chron. 19:3) [Dec. 14, w03 7/1 p. 17 par. 13; cl p. 245 par. 12] *** w03 7/1 p. 17 par. 13 God Is Love *** imperfect? 13 The Bible reveals something else that assures us of Jehovah s love. He looks for and values the good in us. Take, for example, good King Jehoshaphat. When the king committed a foolish act, Jehovah s prophet told him: For this there is indignation against you from the person of Jehovah. What a sobering thought! But Jehovah s message did not end there. It went on: Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found with you. (2 Chronicles 19:1-3) So Jehovah s righteous anger did not blind him to the good things about Jehoshaphat. Is it not reassuring to know that our God looks for the good in us even though we are *** cl chap. 24 p. 245 par. 12 Nothing Can Separate Us From God s Love *** 12 An even more positive example may be found in good King Jehoshaphat. When the king committed a foolish act, Jehovah s prophet told him: For this there is indignation against you from the person of Jehovah. What a sobering thought! But Jehovah s message did not end there. It went on: Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found with you. (2 Chronicles 19:1-3) So Jehovah s righteous anger did not blind him to the good in Jehoshaphat. How unlike imperfect humans! When upset with others, we may tend to become blind to the good in them. And when we sin, the disappointment, shame, and guilt that we feel may blind us to the good in ourselves. Remember, though, that if we repent of our sins and strive hard not to repeat them, Jehovah forgives us. *** w14 9/1 p. 7 Was God s Law to Israel Just and Fair? *** Centuries later, King Jehoshaphat of Judah commanded the judges: Pay attention to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for Jehovah, and he is with you when you pass judgment. Now let the fear of Jehovah be upon you. Be careful about what you do, for with Jehovah our God there is no injustice, no partiality, no bribe-taking. (2 Chronicles 19:6, 7) The king thus reminded the judges that if prejudice or greed affected their decisions, God would hold them responsible for any resulting harm.

10 *** w11 8/1 p. 28 A Day of High Hopes and Happy Expectations *** Anthony Morris of the Governing Body explained the meaning of the Scriptural phrase the dread of Jehovah. (2 Chronicles 19:7) Those words do not refer to any kind of morbid terror but, rather, to an intense desire to do what is right, a respect so intense and sincere as to be characterized by nervous trembling. Take that kind of dread with you to your missionary assignment, Brother Morris exhorted the students. How can they show such reverence for Jehovah? The speaker focused on two practical ways. *** w11 10/15 p. 11 par. 13 Is Your Recreation Beneficial? *** 13 The third question to ask yourself is, Who? that is, Who are the ones I want to share my leisure activities with? It is important to consider this aspect of recreation. Why? Because the quality of our recreation is greatly influenced by the quality of our companions. Just as eating a meal is usually more pleasurable when you do so in the company of good friends, engaging in recreation is often more enjoyable when you do so with good companions. Thus, it is understandable that many among us, especially young ones, enjoy recreation that is shared with others. However, to make sure that an activity will be beneficial, it is wise to determine in advance what sort of individuals to choose as companions and what sort to avoid. 2 Chron. 19:2; read Proverbs 13:20; Jas. 4:4. *** w08 3/1 pp You Can Be Happy Despite Disappointment *** It is easy for us to react with bitter resentment when people disappoint us. Jehovah does not act in that way. King David was a disappointment when he committed adultery and then had the woman s husband killed. Yet, Jehovah saw the sincerity of David s repentance and continued using David as his servant. Similarly, faithful King Jehoshaphat erred when he formed an alliance with God s enemies. Jehovah s prophet said: For this there is indignation against you from the person of Jehovah. Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found with you. (2 Chronicles 19:2, 3) Jehovah recognized that one mistake did not make Jehoshaphat a traitor. In the same way, we can avoid losing friends if we do not overreact when they err. Friends who disappoint us may still have fine qualities. Colossians 3:13.

11 *** w06 7/15 p. 31 Questions From Readers *** Elders need to maintain the purity of the congregation and must base their judgment on God s Word as well as on the direction of the faithful and discreet slave. (Matthew 18:18; 24:45) And in these evil days, more than ever before, elders need to bear in mind the words: See what you are doing, because it is not for man that you judge but it is for Jehovah. 2 Chronicles 19:6. *** w05 12/1 p. 20 par. 12 Highlights From the Book of Second Chronicles *** 19:1-3. Jehovah looks for the good in us even when we give him reasons to be angry with us. *** w99 6/1 pp par. 13 Appreciating the Gifts in Men *** 13 What about being submissive when it comes to judicial decisions? Granted, this may not be easy, especially if a decision is made to disfellowship someone we love a relative or a close friend. Here again, it is best to yield to the judgment of the gifts in men. They are in a position to be more objective than we can be, and they may know more of the facts. These brothers often agonize over such decisions; it is a sobering responsibility to judge for Jehovah. (2 Chronicles 19:6) They make every effort to be merciful, for they are mindful that God is ready to forgive. (Psalm 86:5) But they must also keep the congregation clean, and the Bible directs that they disfellowship unrepentant wrongdoers. (1 Corinthians 5:11-13) In many cases the wrongdoer himself accepts the decision. The discipline may be just what he needs to come to his senses. If we, his loved ones, are submissive when it comes to the decision, we may thereby be helping him to benefit from the discipline. Hebrews 12:11. *** w97 5/15 p. 28 Beware of Imputing Wrong Motives *** In this world that lies in Satan s power, stereotyping and suspicion take various forms. For example, a person may be viewed as being violent or materialistic simply because of his background. As Christians, however, we must not fall victim to such attitudes. Jehovah s organization is no place for bigotry and suspicion. All true Christians need to imitate Jehovah God, with whom there is no unrighteousness or partiality. 2 Chronicles 19:7; Acts 10:34, 35. *** w96 11/15 p. 18 par. 10 How Traveling Overseers Serve as Faithful Stewards *** 10 Being humble and approachable assists traveling overseers to do much good. One circuit overseer observed: It is most important to maintain a humble attitude. He would caution new traveling overseers: Do not let yourselves be unduly influenced by the more affluent brothers because of what they may do for you, nor limit your friendship to such ones, but strive always to deal with others impartially. (2 Chronicles 19:6, 7) And a truly humble traveling overseer will not have an exaggerated view of his own importance as a representative of the Society. A district overseer appropriately commented: Be humble and willing to listen to the brothers. Always be approachable. As the greatest man who ever lived, Jesus Christ could have made people feel uncomfortable, but he was so humble and approachable that even children felt at ease in his presence. (Matthew 18:5; Mark 10:13-16) Traveling overseers want children, teenagers, elderly ones indeed anyone and everyone in the congregation to feel free to approach them.

12 (2 Chronicles 15:1, 2) 15 Now the spirit of God came upon Az a riʹah the son of Oʹded. 2 So he went out to meet Aʹsa and said to him: Hear me, O Aʹsa and all Judah and Benjamin! Jehovah is with you as long as you remain with him; and if you search for him, he will let himself be found by you, but if you abandon him, he will abandon you. (2 Chronicles 15:1, 2, 7) 15 Now the spirit of God came upon Az a riʹah the son of Oʹded. 2 So he went out to meet Aʹsa and said to him: Hear me, O Aʹsa and all Judah and Benjamin! Jehovah is with you as long as you remain with him; and if you search for him, he will let himself be found by you, but if you abandon him, he will abandon you. 7 But you, be strong and do not become discouraged, for your activity will be rewarded.

13 (2 Chronicles 15:10-15) 10 So they were gathered together at Jerusalem in the third month of the 15th year of Aʹsa s reign. 11 On that day they sacrificed to Jehovah from the spoil they had brought, 700 cattle and 7,000 sheep. 12 Furthermore, they entered into a covenant to search for Jehovah the God of their forefathers with all their heart and with all their soul. 13 Whoever would not search for Jehovah the God of Israel was to be put to death, whether small or great, man or woman. 14 So they took an oath to Jehovah with a loud voice, with joyful shouting, and with the trumpets and horns. 15 And all Judah rejoiced over the oath, for they had taken the oath with all their heart and they eagerly sought him and he let himself be found by them, and Jehovah continued to give them rest on every side. (2 Chronicles 15:9) 9 And he gathered together all Judah and Benjamin and the foreign residents with them from Eʹphra im and Ma nasʹseh and Simʹe on, for they had deserted to him from Israel in great number when they saw that Jehovah his God was with him. (2 Chronicles 15:1, 2) 15 Now the spirit of God came upon Az a riʹah the son of Oʹded. 2 So he went out to meet Aʹsa and said to him: Hear me, O Aʹsa and all Judah and Benjamin! Jehovah is with you as long as you remain with him; and if you search for him, he will let himself be found by you, but if you abandon him, he will abandon you. (2 Chronicles 15:8) 8 As soon as Aʹsa heard these words and the prophecy of Oʹded the prophet, he took courage and removed the disgusting idols from all the land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities that he had captured from the mountainous region of Eʹphra im, and he restored Jehovah s altar that was before the porch of Jehovah.

14 (2 Chronicles 16:7-10) 7 At that time Ha naʹni the seer came to King Aʹsa of Judah and said to him: Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on Jehovah your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand. 8 Were not the E thi oʹpi ans and the Libʹy ans a very great army with many chariots and horsemen? But because you relied on Jehovah, he gave them into your hand. 9 For the eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. You have acted foolishly in this matter; from now on there will be wars against you. 10 However, Aʹsa became offended at the seer and put him in prison because he was enraged at him over this. And Aʹsa began to mistreat others among the people at that same time.

15 (2 Chronicles 16:13, 14) 13 Then Aʹsa was laid to rest with his forefathers; he died in the 41st year of his reign. 14 So they buried him in the grand burial place that he had excavated for himself in the City of David, and they laid him on a bier that had been filled with balsam oil and different sorts of ingredients mixed into a specially made ointment. Further, they made an extraordinarily great funeral burning for him. (2 Chronicles 16:1-5, 7) 16 In the 36th year of the reign of Aʹsa, King Baʹa sha of Israel came up against Judah and began to build up Raʹmah to prevent anyone from going out or coming in to King Aʹsa of Judah. 2 At that Aʹsa brought out silver and gold from the treasuries of Jehovah s house and the king s house and sent them to King Benhaʹdad of Syria, who was dwelling in Damascus, saying: 3 There is a treaty between me and you and between my father and your father. I am sending you silver and gold. Come, break your treaty with King Baʹa sha of Israel, so that he will withdraw from me. 4 Benhaʹdad listened to King Aʹsa and sent the chiefs of his armies against the cities of Israel, and they struck down Iʹjon, Dan, Aʹbel-maʹim, and all the storage places of the cities of Naphʹta li. 5 When Baʹa sha heard of it, he immediately quit building Raʹmah and abandoned his work on it. 7 At that time Ha naʹni the seer came to King Aʹsa of Judah and said to him: Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on Jehovah your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand. (2 Chronicles 16:7-12) 7 At that time Ha naʹni the seer came to King Aʹsa of Judah and said to him: Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on Jehovah your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand. 8 Were not the E thi oʹpi ans and the Libʹy ans a very great army with many chariots and horsemen? But because you relied on Jehovah, he gave them into your hand. 9 For the eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. You have acted foolishly in this matter; from now on there will be wars against you. 10 However, Aʹsa became offended at the seer and put him in prison because he was enraged at him over this. And Aʹsa began to mistreat others among the people at that same time. 11 Now the history of Aʹsa, from beginning to end, is written in the Book of the Kings of Judah and of Israel. 12 In the 39th year of his reign, Aʹsa developed an ailment in his feet until he became very sick; and even in his sickness, he turned, not to Jehovah, but to the healers.

16 (2 Chronicles 16:1-3, 7-12) 16 In the 36th year of the reign of Aʹsa, King Baʹa sha of Israel came up against Judah and began to build up Raʹmah to prevent anyone from going out or coming in to King Aʹsa of Judah. 2 At that Aʹsa brought out silver and gold from the treasuries of Jehovah s house and the king s house and sent them to King Benhaʹdad of Syria, who was dwelling in Damascus, saying: 3 There is a treaty between me and you and between my father and your father. I am sending you silver and gold. Come, break your treaty with King Baʹa sha of Israel, so that he will withdraw from me. 7 At that time Ha naʹni the seer came to King Aʹsa of Judah and said to him: Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on Jehovah your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand. 8 Were not the E thi oʹpi ans and the Libʹy ans a very great army with many chariots and horsemen? But because you relied on Jehovah, he gave them into your hand. 9 For the eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. You have acted foolishly in this matter; from now on there will be wars against you. 10 However, Aʹsa became offended at the seer and put him in prison because he was enraged at him over this. And Aʹsa began to mistreat others among the people at that same time. 11 Now the history of Aʹsa, from beginning to end, is written in the Book of the Kings of Judah and of Israel. 12 In the 39th year of his reign, Aʹsa developed an ailment in his feet until he became very sick; and even in his sickness, he turned, not to Jehovah, but to the healers. (2 Chronicles 16:7-10) 7 At that time Ha naʹni the seer came to King Aʹsa of Judah and said to him: Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on Jehovah your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand. 8 Were not the E thi oʹpi ans and the Libʹy ans a very great army with many chariots and horsemen? But because you relied on Jehovah, he gave them into your hand. 9 For the eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. You have acted foolishly in this matter; from now on there will be wars against you. 10 However, Aʹsa became offended at the seer and put him in prison because he was enraged at him over this. And Aʹsa began to mistreat others among the people at that same time. (2 Chronicles 16:7-10) 7 At that time Ha naʹni the seer came to King Aʹsa of Judah and said to him: Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on Jehovah your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand. 8 Were not the E thi oʹpi ans and the Libʹy ans a very great army with many chariots and horsemen? But because you relied on Jehovah, he gave them into your hand. 9 For the eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. You have acted foolishly in this matter; from now on there will be wars against you. 10 However, Aʹsa became offended at the seer and put him in prison because he was enraged at him over this. And Aʹsa began to mistreat others among the people at that same time.

17 (2 Chronicles 17:9, 10) 9 They began teaching in Judah, taking with them the book of Jehovah s Law, and they went around through all the cities of Judah teaching among the people. 10 And the dread of Jehovah came upon all the kingdoms of the lands surrounding Judah, and they did not fight against Je hoshʹa phat.

18 (2 Chronicles 17:3, 4) 3 Jehovah continued with Je hoshʹa phat because he walked in the former ways of his forefather David and did not search for the Baʹals. 4 For he searched for the God of his father and followed his commandment and not the practices of Israel. (2 Chronicles 17:7-9) 7 In the third year of his reign he sent for his princes, Ben-haʹil, O ba diʹah, Zech a riʹah, Ne thanʹel, and Mi caiʹah, to teach in the cities of Judah. 8 There were Levites with them: She maiʹah, Neth a niʹah, Zeb a diʹah, Asʹa hel, She mirʹa moth, Je honʹa than, Ad o niʹjah, To biʹjah, and Tob-ad o niʹjah, and along with them E lishʹa ma and Je hoʹram the priests. 9 They began teaching in Judah, taking with them the book of Jehovah s Law, and they went around through all the cities of Judah teaching among the people. (2 Chronicles 18:12, 13, 23, 24, 27) 12 So the messenger who went to call Mi caiʹah said to him: Look! The words of the prophets are unanimously favorable to the king. Let your word, please, become like theirs, and speak favorably. 13 But Mi caiʹah said: As surely as Jehovah is living, whatever my God says is what I will speak. 23 Zed e kiʹah the son of Che naʹa nah now approached and struck Mi caiʹah on the cheek and said: Which way did the spirit of Jehovah pass from me to speak with you? 24 Mi caiʹah replied: Look! You will see which way on the day when you will enter the innermost room to hide. 27 But Mi caiʹah said: If you do return in peace, Jehovah has not spoken with me. Then he added: Take note, all you peoples. (2 Chronicles 18:1-3, 29-31) 18 Je hoshʹa phat had riches and glory in abundance, but he made a marriage alliance with Aʹhab. 2 So years later he went down to Aʹhab at Sa marʹi a, and Aʹhab sacrificed sheep and cattle in abundance for him and for the people with him. And he urged him to go up against Raʹmoth-gilʹe ad. 3 Then King Aʹhab of Israel said to King Je hoshʹa phat of Judah: Will you go with me to Raʹmoth-gilʹe ad? He replied to him: I am the same as you, and my people are the same as your people and will support you in the war. 29 The king of Israel now said to Je hoshʹa phat: I will disguise myself and will go into the battle, but you should put on your royal attire. So the king of Israel disguised himself, and they entered the battle. 30 Now the king of Syria had ordered his chariot commanders: Do not fight with anyone, small or great, except the king of Israel. 31 And as soon as the chariot commanders saw Je hoshʹa phat, they said to themselves: It is the king of Israel. So they turned to fight against him; and Je hoshʹa phat began to cry for help, and Jehovah helped him, and God at once diverted them from him.

19 (2 Chronicles 19:1-3) 19 Then King Je hoshʹa phat of Judah returned safely to his own house in Jerusalem. 2 Jeʹhu the son of Ha naʹni the visionary went out to meet him and said to King Je hoshʹa phat: Is it the wicked you should be helping, and is it those who hate Jehovah you should love? Because of this the indignation of Jehovah is against you. 3 Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found in you, because you cleared out the sacred poles from the land and you have prepared your heart to search for the true God. (2 Chronicles 19:6, 7) 6 And he said to the judges: Pay attention to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for Jehovah, and he is with you when you pass judgment. 7 Now let the fear of Jehovah be upon you. Be careful about what you do, for with Jehovah our God there is no injustice, no partiality, no bribe-taking.

20 (2 Chronicles 19:7) 7 Now let the fear of Jehovah be upon you. Be careful about what you do, for with Jehovah our God there is no injustice, no partiality, no bribe-taking. (2 Chronicles 19:2) 2 Jeʹhu the son of Ha naʹni the visionary went out to meet him and said to King Je hoshʹa phat: Is it the wicked you should be helping, and is it those who hate Jehovah you should love? Because of this the indignation of Jehovah is against you. (2 Chronicles 19:2, 3) 2 Jeʹhu the son of Ha naʹni the visionary went out to meet him and said to King Je hoshʹa phat: Is it the wicked you should be helping, and is it those who hate Jehovah you should love? Because of this the indignation of Jehovah is against you. 3 Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found in you, because you cleared out the sacred poles from the land and you have prepared your heart to search for the true God. (2 Chronicles 19:6) 6 And he said to the judges: Pay attention to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for Jehovah, and he is with you when you pass judgment.

21 (2 Chronicles 19:1-3) 19 Then King Je hoshʹa phat of Judah returned safely to his own house in Jerusalem. 2 Jeʹhu the son of Ha naʹni the visionary went out to meet him and said to King Je hoshʹa phat: Is it the wicked you should be helping, and is it those who hate Jehovah you should love? Because of this the indignation of Jehovah is against you. 3 Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found in you, because you cleared out the sacred poles from the land and you have prepared your heart to search for the true God. (2 Chronicles 19:6) 6 And he said to the judges: Pay attention to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for Jehovah, and he is with you when you pass judgment. (2 Chronicles 19:7) 7 Now let the fear of Jehovah be upon you. Be careful about what you do, for with Jehovah our God there is no injustice, no partiality, no bribe-taking. (2 Chronicles 19:6, 7) 6 And he said to the judges: Pay attention to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for Jehovah, and he is with you when you pass judgment. 7 Now let the fear of Jehovah be upon you. Be careful about what you do, for with Jehovah our God there is no injustice, no partiality, no bribe-taking.