“How to Keep the Right View of Hardships”
1, 2. What do we need to do to endure hardships?
Answer 1:
To endure hardships, we need to see them the way Jehovah sees them. If we focus only on the pain or the injustice, we could lose spiritual clarity. But when we look at the situation from Jehovah’s perspective, we can make better decisions and keep trusting in him.
Answer 2:
The article compares problems to obstacles on the road. If the windshield is dirty, we cannot see well and we may react badly. In a similar way, if our viewpoint is clouded by discouragement, we need to clean it with the Bible so we can see the situation in a balanced way.
Answer 3:
Enduring does not simply mean putting up with the problem however we can. It means learning to see it correctly, understanding why Jehovah allows certain things, and seeking his help. When we do that, we do not let hardships paralyze us; instead, we keep moving forward with faith.
THE RIGHT VIEWPOINT
3. Why are we going to have problems in this system?
Answer 1:
We are going to have problems because we live in an imperfect world ruled by Satan. As long as this system exists, there will be sickness, injustice, disasters, and suffering. Knowing this helps us not to think that Jehovah has abandoned us when we go through hardships.
Answer 2:
Problems should not take us by surprise. The Bible had already warned that in the last days life would be difficult and that wickedness would increase. So when we suffer, it does not mean that something is wrong with our faith; it means that we are living in the system that Jehovah will soon do away with.
Answer 3:
If Jehovah were to solve every problem now, it could seem that he is supporting Satan’s rule. That is why he temporarily allows hardships. But this does not mean that he is indifferent; rather, he is waiting for the right moment to resolve everything once and for all.
4. What is another reason why we suffer?
Answer 1:
Another reason why we suffer is that we are true Christians. Jesus warned that his disciples would be persecuted because of their faith. Being clear about this helps us not to be shaken when we face opposition, because we understand that following Christ involves enduring trials.
Answer 2:
We suffer because we are on Jehovah’s side in the issue of sovereignty. Satan claims that humans serve God out of selfish interest. But when we remain loyal despite trials, we prove that we truly love Jehovah, and we make his heart glad.
Answer 3:
Persecution does not mean that Jehovah is displeased with us. On the contrary, it often confirms that we are walking on the right path. If we stay faithful, we give a clear answer to Satan and show that our worship springs from love.
5. What can we learn from Ecclesiastes 7:13, 14?
Answer 1:
We learn that we should be realistic: in this system we will have good days and bad days. When we enjoy peaceful moments, we should thank Jehovah for them. And when hardships come, we should not think that it is something strange, because we are all exposed to unexpected problems.
Answer 2:
Ecclesiastes helps us to stay balanced. Jehovah does not cause bad things, but he allows them to happen for a time. Understanding this keeps us from blaming God when we suffer, and it helps us to keep trusting that he can sustain us.
Answer 3:
We also learn that no one can fully control what will happen tomorrow. That is why we should not rely too much on our own security. Instead, we should view each good day as a gift, and each difficult day as an opportunity to draw closer to Jehovah.
6. What are some reasons why Jehovah allows us to go through trials?
Answer 1:
Jehovah allows some trials because they can teach us to lean more on him and less on ourselves. When we go through difficult moments, we become aware of our limitations and we learn to depend on Jehovah’s strength, guidance, and tender care.
Answer 2:
Trials can also help us to identify aspects of our personality that we need to improve. Jehovah does not cause suffering, but he can use what he allows to refine us. That is what happened with Job, who learned important lessons and came out spiritually stronger.
Answer 3:
Jehovah allows trials, but he does not allow them to cause us irreparable harm if we stay faithful. He is with us even in “the valley of deep shadow.” That comforts us, because we know that we do not suffer alone and that he will give us the strength to endure.
7. Why can we be happy when we are persecuted?
Answer 1:
We can be happy because being persecuted for our faith shows that we have Jehovah’s approval. We are not happy about suffering, but we are happy to know that we are on the right side and that Jehovah values our faithfulness.
Answer 2:
Persecution can strengthen our joy if we view it the way Jehovah views it. The apostles felt happy because they had been counted worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus. That same perspective helps us not to lose our self-respect or our peace.
Answer 3:
In addition, our faithfulness under persecution can give a fine witness. Others may observe our conduct and come to glorify God. So even in a difficult situation, Jehovah can bless us and use our loyalty to help sincere people.
8. What other reason do we have to endure trials?
Answer 1:
We have a very powerful reason: our problems are numbered. Job suffered a great deal, but Jehovah blessed the end of his life more than its beginning. That reminds us that present suffering is temporary, whereas Jehovah’s blessings will be eternal.
Answer 2:
We endure because we know that Jehovah will reward our faithfulness. We may be going through a very painful stage right now, but it will not be the end of our story. Jehovah promises a future in which hardships will be left behind forever.
Answer 3:
This perspective helps us not to give up. The beginning of our life in this system may be full of problems, but “the end” that Jehovah promises will be far better. Thinking about everlasting life gives us strength to keep enduring to the finish.
IF WE DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT VIEWPOINT
9. How could we make things worse if we do not have the right viewpoint?
Answer 1:
We could make things worse if we come to think that Jehovah caused the problem. That idea can hurt us a great deal, because it pulls us away emotionally from the very One who most wants to help us. Job and Naomi had mistaken thoughts, but Jehovah helped them to correct them.
Answer 2:
When we do not see hardships the way Jehovah does, we could begin to justify our pain by blaming him. That would make the trial weigh on us even more. That is why we need to remember that Jehovah does not act cruelly and does not test anyone with bad things.
Answer 3:
We could also become bitter or lose our trust in Jehovah. But the examples of Job and Naomi comfort us, because they show that Jehovah understands our feelings and can help us to regain the right viewpoint if we keep drawing close to him.
10. What might we ask ourselves when going through a hardship?
Answer 1:
We might wonder whether Jehovah has forgotten us. Even though we know that he did not cause the problem, the pain can make us feel alone. But David and Habakkuk also had similar questions, and even so they kept on praying.
Answer 2:
When we suffer, we may think: “Why does Jehovah not answer?” or “Could it be that he does not hear me?” Such thoughts can weaken us. But the key is not to stop speaking to Jehovah, because he really does listen and knows exactly what we need.
Answer 3:
It is normal to feel confused during a trial, but we should not allow doubts to separate us from Jehovah. David and Habakkuk expressed their feelings honestly, and Jehovah helped them. We too can open our heart to him and wait for his support.
11. What could happen to us if we do not have the right viewpoint about trials?
Answer 1:
If we do not have the right viewpoint, trials could take us by surprise. We might even think that such things should not happen to us. But the Bible warns us that Christians suffer too, so we should prepare ourselves mentally and spiritually.
Answer 2:
The disciples found it hard to accept that Jesus would have to suffer and die. Although he explained it to them, they did not understand it well at first. That teaches us that we need to meditate on the Scriptures so as not to stumble when difficulties or persecution come.
Answer 3:
If we think that serving Jehovah frees us from all problems now, we could become discouraged when a trial comes. That is why it is so important to study what the Bible says about suffering. That way we will be prepared and will not feel confused.
12. What might we think if we do not see things the way Jehovah sees them?
Answer 1:
We might think that we are suffering an injustice when perhaps that is not the case. At times our expectations can distort reality. The parable of the workers in the vineyard teaches that some complained not because they were treated badly, but because they expected more.
Answer 2:
If we do not see things the way Jehovah does, we could exaggerate a situation or feel hurt because we did not receive a certain responsibility. But we should ask ourselves whether an injustice really was committed or whether our expectations are causing us to lose our peace.
Answer 3:
This question helps me to examine my heart. When something does not turn out as I expected, I can feel disappointed. But if I trust in Jehovah and in his organization, I will keep a personal expectation from turning into resentment or discouragement.
WHAT WE CAN DO IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY
13. What can happen when we face a hardship?
Answer 1:
When a hardship affects us personally, it can be difficult to apply what we already know. We may have encouraged others with Bible texts, but when we ourselves are the ones suffering, our feelings can cloud our vision. That is why we need to make a special effort to think the way Jehovah does.
Answer 2:
We may begin to have thoughts that we did not have before, such as believing that Jehovah is punishing us or that he does not hear our prayers. Such thoughts are not reality, but they can seem very strong when we are hurting. That is why we need spiritual help.
Answer 3:
Trials can affect not only our circumstances but also the way we think. That is why it is not enough to endure physically; we have to protect our mind and our heart. If we keep the right viewpoint, it will be easier to keep trusting in Jehovah.
14. What can we include in our prayers when we are suffering?
Answer 1:
We can tell Jehovah what we are going through and how we feel. We do not need to hide the pain, the confusion, or the fear. Jehovah is our Father, and he wants us to speak to him honestly. That alone helps us to feel less alone.
Answer 2:
We can also ask for specific things: strength, wisdom, patience, and holy spirit. Jehovah may not answer exactly as we expect, but he will always give us what we need to endure. Philippians 4:13 reminds us that with his help we can face any situation.
Answer 3:
In addition, we should be alert to the way Jehovah answers. He can help us through the brothers, the angels, a meeting, a publication, or a Bible text. If we accept that help, we will see that Jehovah does not fall short in giving us strength.
15. What do we need to keep doing when we go through trials?
Answer 1:
We need to keep maintaining a good spiritual routine. We may not be able to do as much as before, but we can do what is within our power. Reading the Bible, praying, attending the meetings, and preaching help us to keep our mind full of thoughts about Jehovah.
Answer 2:
When we are going through distress is exactly when we most need Jehovah’s commandments. Psalm 119:143 shows that we can keep loving his guidance even when we are suffering. Spiritual activities are not a burden; they are a protection for the heart.
Answer 3:
We should also resist the urge to isolate ourselves. When we suffer, sometimes we want to shut ourselves in, but we need the brothers. The meetings and spiritual association can give us encouragement, balance, and strength to keep going.
16. What doubts can we have when we suffer a tragedy, and how can we resolve them?
Answer 1:
We may doubt whether we still have Jehovah’s approval. To resolve that doubt, we can study examples such as that of the apostle Paul. He suffered many adversities, but that did not mean that Jehovah was displeased with him; on the contrary, he had God’s support.
Answer 2:
We could also doubt whether Jehovah has forgiven us for past mistakes. In that case, we can make a list of texts that talk about Jehovah’s forgiveness, read them calmly, and meditate on them. In this way we use Bible truth to tear down negative thoughts.
Answer 3:
Another doubt may be whether Jehovah really protects his servants. To resolve it, we need to study what kind of protection Jehovah promises and read experiences of faithful brothers. That helps us to see that, although he permits trials, he always protects our spirituality.
17. What should we do when a trial comes our way?
Answer 1:
When a trial comes our way, we should make an effort to keep the right viewpoint and to keep trusting in Jehovah. We will not always be able to control what happens, but we can decide to lean on him, pray, study, and accept the help that he gives us.
Answer 2:
If we are now enjoying a peaceful period, we should be grateful for it and use it to strengthen our faith. That way, when a hardship comes, it will not find us unprepared. Good days can prepare us spiritually for difficult days.
Answer 3:
Jehovah promises that he will provide the way out so that we can endure. That does not always mean that he will remove the problem right away, but it does mean that he will give us strength, guidance, and support. With that assurance, we can face trials without losing hope.
ANALYSIS OF THE IMAGES
Image in paragraph 2: the driver with the dirty windshield
Comment 1:
The image teaches that if we do not clearly see the obstacle, we may react late or badly. The same thing happens with hardships: if our mind is clouded by fear or sadness, we need to clean our vision with the Bible.
Comment 2:
The problem was not just the obstacle, but the fact that the driver could not see it clearly. This reminds me that often a hardship is already hard, but it becomes worse if we view it from the wrong perspective.
Comment 3:
The lesson is practical: before reacting to a problem, we should make sure we are seeing it the way Jehovah sees it. That can help us to decide whether we should act, wait, ask for help, or simply endure patiently.
Image in paragraph 5: the garden with good days and bad days
Comment 1:
This image reminds us that in life there will be good days and difficult days. When everything is going well, we should thank Jehovah. And when something goes wrong, we should not think that Jehovah has abandoned us.
Comment 2:
The same man enjoys a good harvest one day and another day sees that something has been ruined. That is what this system is like: not everything is under our control. That is why we need to be realistic and depend on Jehovah.
Comment 3:
The image helps us to accept that hardships do not always mean that we have done something wrong. Sometimes we simply experience the effects of this imperfect system. Having that perspective protects us from discouragement and from blaming Jehovah.
Image in paragraph 15: the brother in the hospital connected to the meeting
Comment 1:
This image shows that, even when an illness limits what we can do, we can still stay close to Jehovah. The brother cannot be physically at the Kingdom Hall, but he does what he can to benefit from the meeting.
Comment 2:
It teaches me that Jehovah does not expect more than we can give. If our circumstances change, we may have to adjust our spiritual routine, but not abandon it. Doing what is within our power shows love and trust in Jehovah.
Comment 3:
It also reminds us that spiritual activities are a source of strength. In times of illness or distress, connecting to the meetings, reading the Bible, and staying close to the brothers can help us not to lose the right viewpoint.
CONCLUDING NOTE OF THE ARTICLE
Comments on the recommended experience
Comment 1:
The note mentions the experience of a family that suffered a tragedy and managed to get back on their feet spiritually. This kind of account helps us because it shows that Jehovah can sustain his servants even through very painful blows.
Comment 2:
Reading experiences of faithful brothers can help us to resolve doubts. When we see how others have endured with Jehovah’s help, we are reminded that we are not alone and that he keeps giving strength to those who trust in him.
Comment 3:
These experiences do not remove our pain, but they do strengthen our hope. They teach us that, although a tragedy may change our life, Jehovah can help us to move forward and to keep our friendship with him alive.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
What can help us to have the right viewpoint about hardships?
Answer 1:
It helps to remember that we live in Satan’s system and that, for this reason, we all face problems. We should also remember that Jehovah does not cause bad things, but he can help us to learn, to endure, and to come out spiritually stronger.
Answer 2:
It helps to study the Bible and to view hardships the way Jehovah views them. If we understand that trials are temporary and that Jehovah can sustain us, we will not let ourselves be ruled by fear, confusion, or discouragement.
Answer 3:
It also helps to think about examples such as Job, Joseph, the apostles, and other faithful servants. They suffered, but Jehovah did not abandon them. Meditating on their experiences helps us to trust that Jehovah will be with us too.
What could happen to us if we do not have the right viewpoint?
Answer 1:
We could come to think that Jehovah caused the problem or that he has forgotten us. Such thoughts can weaken us greatly and damage our friendship with him. That is why we should correct them with the help of the Bible.
Answer 2:
We could also feel that we are victims of an injustice when perhaps it is our expectations that are affecting us. If we do not see things the way Jehovah does, we could feed resentment or discouragement. The right viewpoint helps us to keep our peace.
Answer 3:
If we do not have the right viewpoint, trials can take us by surprise and make us stumble. But if we meditate on what the Bible says about suffering, we will be better prepared to endure without losing our faith.
What can we do in the face of adversity?
Answer 1:
We can pray sincerely and ask Jehovah for strength, wisdom, and holy spirit. We should also be alert to his answer, because he can help us through the brothers, the meetings, the Bible, or some publication at just the right moment.
Answer 2:
We should maintain a good spiritual routine, even if we have to adapt it to our circumstances. Reading the Bible, attending the meetings, preaching, and being with the brothers help us to keep our mind focused on Jehovah.
Answer 3:
We should also resolve our doubts by using the Bible and the publications. If negative thoughts arise, we should not let them grow. We can look up texts, meditate on them, and recall experiences of brothers who have proved Jehovah’s support for themselves.
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