Ecclesiastes 4:9-10<\/strong> \u2014 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their hard work. For if one of them falls, the other can help his partner up. But what will happen to the one who falls with no one to help him up?<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> A trusted friend can give us advice that helps us face a difficult situation. Because we know him well, we find it easier to turn to him and take what he says into account. This reminds us that friendships need to be cultivated. The better we know someone and the more we see his sincere interest, the more secure we feel about asking him for help.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> I like the comparison of a friend to a safety net. A net does not necessarily prevent someone from falling, but it can catch him. Similarly, a friend cannot always remove our problem, but he can help us endure it. Knowing that we have his support is already very valuable. And we too can strive to be that kind of friend to others.<\/p> Psalms 115:9-11<\/strong> \u2014 O Israel, trust in Jehovah \u2014He is their help and their shield. O house of Aaron, trust in Jehovah \u2014He is their help and their shield. You who fear Jehovah, trust in Jehovah \u2014He is their help and their shield.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> It encourages us to trust in Jehovah in every circumstance. At times we may think of asking him for help only when the problem has become very serious, but he is our best Friend at all times. We can count on his guidance and support. Cultivating that trust in daily life will help us continue turning to him when especially difficult situations arise.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> The paragraph also highlights that we have to do our part. Trusting in Jehovah does not consist only of asking him for help but also of being willing to accept it. If we want him to guide us, we must allow his direction to influence our decisions. In this way we show that we truly believe that his way of doing things is better than ours.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> The article answers three main questions: When is it especially important to trust in Jehovah, how does he support those who trust in him, and how do we show that we count on his help? These questions help us move from knowing that Jehovah loves us to thinking about how to act when we face problems. We will also see how to keep strengthening our trust through Bible reading and meditation.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> We will consider under what circumstances we especially need Jehovah\u2019s help and in what ways he can give it to us. The examples of servants of God in Bible times and in our day will help us recognize that support. This is useful because we do not always receive help in the way we imagined, and we want to learn to appreciate what Jehovah does for us.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> A very practical question is how to show that we trust in Jehovah. The article relates this to making plans for the future, waiting during a difficulty, facing obstacles, and maintaining our balance when our expectations are not fulfilled. Thus we can examine our own decisions and see whether they reflect confidence that Jehovah will help us and that his way of acting is best.<\/p> Ephesians 3:20<\/strong> \u2014 Now to the one who can, according to his power that is operating in us, do more than superabundantly beyond all the things we ask or conceive,<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> When a problem overwhelms us, it is especially important to turn to Jehovah. In such circumstances we may feel more intensely how much we need his support. The paragraph explains that when we see that he is by our side, our trust grows stronger. Thus, a very painful situation can also help us come to know Jehovah better and value our friendship with him more.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> We especially need his help during severe trials, but we must be open to receiving it in unexpected ways. If we accepted only one specific solution, we might overlook the support he is already giving us. So, in addition to asking him for help, it is good to pay attention to how he sustains us. Recognizing that support will give us greater confidence to face the difficulties that come later.<\/p> Mark 5:35-36<\/strong> \u2014 While he was yet speaking, some men from the home of the presiding officer of the synagogue came and said: \u201cYour daughter died! Why bother the Teacher any longer?\u201d But Jesus overheard their words and said to the presiding officer of the synagogue: \u201cHave no fear, only exercise faith.\u201d<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Jairus did not just wait without doing anything. His daughter was very sick, so he sought out Jesus and repeatedly asked him for help. This teaches me that trust should move us to act. When we go through a difficulty, we can turn to Jehovah and do what is within our power instead of allowing fear to keep us from seeking support.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> I am struck by the fact that Jesus stopped to attend to the sick woman while he was on his way to Jairus\u2019 house. For such a worried father, that wait must have been difficult. Nevertheless, what happened afterward showed that the situation had not escaped God\u2019s power. We too should not interpret an agonizing delay as proof that Jehovah is not interested in us.<\/p> Jeremiah 17:7-8<\/strong> \u2014 Blessed is the man who puts his trust in Jehovah, Whose confidence is in Jehovah. He will become like a tree planted by the waters, That sends out its roots to the stream. He will not notice when heat comes, But his leaves will always flourish. And in the year of drought he will not be anxious, Nor will he quit producing fruit.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Jehovah loves and cares for his servants, not only as a people but also individually. That is a very personal reason to trust in him. We are not simply one more person among the many who need help. Our welfare matters to him. Keeping his love in mind enables us to ask him for support without thinking that our problems are too small for him to be interested in them.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Another reason is that his ability to help us does not depend on circumstances being favorable. The paragraph specifically mentions opposition, a situation that can make us feel very vulnerable. Even then, Jehovah can give us what we need to remain faithful. Therefore, our security is not based on living a life free of difficulties but on having his support during them.<\/p> Genesis 15:1<\/strong> \u2014 After this the word of Jehovah came to Abram in a vision, saying: \u201cDo not fear, Abram. I am a shield for you. Your reward will be very great.\u201d<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Jehovah protected them when they had to go to Egypt because of the famine. There, Pharaoh took Sarah with the intention of making her his wife, but Jehovah intervened and prevented that from happening. It was concrete help in a dangerous situation. The account shows that Jehovah had not forgotten Abraham and Sarah after they left their home.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> The picture shows Abraham and Sarah walking away from Pharaoh together and smiling. That detail highlights the result of Jehovah\u2019s intervention: Pharaoh did not marry Sarah, and both of them were able to leave. When we relate the picture to the account, we remember that Jehovah\u2019s protection was real. He was attentive to his servants when they were in a very vulnerable situation.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> Jehovah helped Vladimir\u2019s family to remain spiritually strong after religious fanatics burned down their home. They lost their house and were deeply affected, but none of them stopped pioneering. This shows that Jehovah\u2019s support does not always consist of preventing a tragedy. It can also be seen in the strength he gives his servants to carry on and remain faithful.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> Jehovah used the brothers in the congregation to give them support and practical help. The family did not have to face the consequences of losing their home alone. This experience helps us to recognize that the loving concern of the brothers can be a way of receiving Jehovah\u2019s care. It also moves us to offer concrete help when we know that a family is going through difficulties.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> I am impressed that, although they were devastated by the loss of their home, they were grateful to be alive and continued serving Jehovah. This does not mean that what happened did not hurt them deeply, but that the tragedy did not destroy their trust in him. Their example teaches us that we can acknowledge our pain while at the same time valuing the help we receive and maintaining our spiritual activities.<\/p> 1 Timothy 5:8<\/strong> \u2014 Certainly if anyone does not provide for those who are his own, and especially for those who are members of his household, he has disowned the faith and is worse than a person without faith.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> When thinking about their children\u2019s future, some parents may wonder whether they should encourage them to serve full-time or to seek a well-paying job. The economic situation may make that decision seem especially difficult. The paragraph acknowledges that their concern is understandable. The question is whether they will allow fear to determine their advice or whether they will also give priority to spiritual well-being.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> In some cultures, children are expected to support their parents when they grow old. Therefore, when advising them about their future, parents may be thinking both about their children\u2019s welfare and their own. That pressure can test their trust. It is good to acknowledge it and examine whether it is having too much influence on the goals they encourage their children to pursue.<\/p> Matthew 6:33<\/strong> \u2014 \u201cKeep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> They did not let Jacob make such an important decision without guidance. They instructed him to seek a wife who worshipped Jehovah. Thus, they showed that they were concerned about the kind of influence his marriage would have on his spiritual life. Parents today also show love when they help their children think about the spiritual consequences of their decisions, and not just about immediate advantages.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> They were willing for their son to make a long journey because they highly valued his friendship with Jehovah. This shows that their spiritual concern was not merely verbal; it influenced an important family decision. Similarly, children can learn to trust in Jehovah by observing that their parents maintain spiritual priorities even when doing so requires effort or changes in their plans.<\/p> Psalms 33:20<\/strong> \u2014 We are in expectation of Jehovah. He is our helper and our shield.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> When a difficulty continues for a long time, we may begin to wonder why Jehovah has not intervened. The passing of time can be as difficult as the problem itself. The paragraph acknowledges that knowing Jehovah will correct the situation does not make waiting easy. So we need to keep strengthening our trust, especially when we have been dealing with the same concern for a long time and are tired.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> An injustice can test our patience because we want it to be corrected as soon as possible. However, our desire for an immediate solution does not determine the best time to act. Remembering this helps us not to confuse waiting with a lack of concern on Jehovah\u2019s part. We can acknowledge that the situation hurts us and still continue trusting in his way of doing things.<\/p> Micah 7:7<\/strong> \u2014 But as for me, I will keep on the lookout for Jehovah. I will show a waiting attitude for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Appearances did not reveal everything that was happening. Athaliah had eliminated almost the entire royal line and her reign was filled with wickedness, but Jehoash was still alive and protected. Jehovah was aware of the situation. This teaches us not to draw definite conclusions based only on what we see. Our information is limited, whereas Jehovah knows every detail.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Jehoiada and his wife played an important role in keeping Jehoash hidden. While Athaliah was ruling, the rightful heir was safe, although many may not have known it. This reminds me that not all of Jehovah\u2019s help is evident at the time. Therefore, when it seems that nothing is changing, we should not conclude that he has stopped caring about his servants.<\/p> Colossians 1:11<\/strong> \u2014 and may you be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may endure fully with patience and joy,<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> From Maria we learn to recognize Jehovah\u2019s care in the love of the brothers. She explained that they were at her side just when she needed them. Her separation from her husband did not disappear immediately, but she did not have to face it alone. This encourages us to accept the congregation\u2019s support and also to be available to those going through a prolonged trial.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Sergey gained strength from prayer. Although he was in prison and separated from his wife, he could continue turning to Jehovah, and he came to be known as a man of God. His example reminds us that prayer is not a secondary resource. When circumstances greatly limit what we can do, our relationship with Jehovah continues to be a source of strength that helps us remain faithful.<\/p> Answer 1:<\/strong> We may feel this way when we have been sick for a long time. It is not merely a matter of facing a bad day, but of living with a difficulty that seems never to end. This can cause us fear and discouragement. The paragraph realistically acknowledges those feelings and invites us to think about how to continue trusting in Jehovah, even when our physical circumstances remain difficult.<\/p> Answer 2:<\/strong> The problems of old age can also discourage us, especially when we notice that we have more and more limitations. It can be painful to realize that we can no longer do certain things as we once did. The article does not minimize that reality. Rather, it helps us direct our attention to Jehovah and ask ourselves how to show trust in him within the possibilities we have now.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Discouragement can be very intense when we view an obstacle as insurmountable. Perhaps it is not only the problem itself but also the feeling that we lack the strength to face it. I find it encouraging that the paragraph acknowledges that a servant of Jehovah may feel this way. Such feelings do not have to prevent us from seeking his support or from continuing to cultivate confidence that he will help us.<\/p> Psalms 37:5<\/strong> \u2014 Commit your way to Jehovah; Rely on him, and he will act in your behalf.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> David\u2019s trust was not centered on his sling or his stones, but on Jehovah. Goliath seemed invincible from a human point of view, but David kept in mind who was supporting him. This teaches me not to evaluate a difficulty solely by comparing it with my own strength. I must also remember Jehovah\u2019s power and ask him for the help needed to face it.<\/p> 1 Samuel 17:37<\/strong> \u2014 Then David added: \u201cJehovah, who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear, he is the one who will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.\u201d At this Saul said to David: \u201cGo, and may Jehovah be with you.\u201d<\/em> Psalms 143:8<\/strong> \u2014 Let me hear your loyal love in the morning, For I trust in you. Make known to me the way I should walk, For to you I turn.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Although her spinal problem greatly limits her mobility, Paula preaches by telephone and informally. She has not allowed a physical limitation to determine everything she can do in her service. Her example encourages us to be flexible. If one way of participating becomes difficult, perhaps we can use another that is within our reach and continue enjoying helping people.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> I like Paula\u2019s balanced approach: She makes plans that she can fulfill and leaves the rest in Jehovah\u2019s hands. She does not wait until she has perfect health to act, but neither does she demand that she ignore her limitations. That attitude demonstrates trust. We can imitate her by setting realistic goals and doing what we can, without thinking that trusting in Jehovah requires us to do things that our physical condition does not allow.<\/p> Revelation 21:4<\/strong> \u2014 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.\u201d<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> The picture shows Simeon holding the baby Jesus in his arms and praising Jehovah while Joseph and Mary look on. That scene directs attention to his gratitude to God. It encourages us to value what Jehovah does and to express our gratitude to him. While we wait for the end of suffering, we do not want our expectations to prevent us from recognizing the reasons we already have to praise him.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> The paragraph connects Simeon\u2019s example with being realistic when our expectations are not fulfilled. We may very much desire to see the end of suffering and at the same time accept that it is not our place to determine when it will come. That balanced attitude protects our trust. Instead of measuring Jehovah\u2019s interest by how closely it matches our desires, we continue relying on him and on what he has promised.<\/p> Psalms 28:7<\/strong> \u2014 Jehovah is my strength and my shield; In him my heart trusts. I have received his help, and my heart rejoices, So I will praise him with my song.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> Trust is strengthened when we do not limit ourselves to reading what happened but reflect on it. We can ask ourselves what Jehovah did for that servant and what similar help we have received. The paragraph specifically recommends that comparison. In this way, Bible Reading helps us to know Jehovah\u2019s care better and to recognize his support in our own life.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> At times Jehovah has supported us in ways that are not obvious. While we are worried about a problem, we may not perceive all the good we are receiving. By calmly meditating on Bible accounts and on our own experience, we can recognize help that previously went unnoticed. This reminds us that we have not been alone, even if at some point we have felt very vulnerable.<\/p> Jeremiah 17:7-8<\/strong> \u2014 Blessed is the man who puts his trust in Jehovah, Whose confidence is in Jehovah. He will become like a tree planted by the waters, That sends out its roots to the stream. He will not notice when heat comes, But his leaves will always flourish. And in the year of drought he will not be anxious, Nor will he quit producing fruit.<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> It is especially important when a situation makes us feel unprotected. Abraham and Sarah left the security of Ur and faced dangers, but Jehovah did not abandon them. Their experience reminds us that circumstances can change without Jehovah\u2019s interest in us changing. When we lose some material security, we need to continue valuing the help he can give us.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Also when we suffer persecution and a painful loss. Vladimir\u2019s family saw their home reduced to ashes, but they continued serving Jehovah and received help from the congregation. This experience shows why we need to trust in him during crises: Although he does not always prevent the damage, he can sustain us spiritually and help us not to face the consequences alone.<\/p> Colossians 1:11<\/strong> \u2014 and may you be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may endure fully with patience and joy,<\/em> Answer 2:<\/strong> He may support us through our brothers and sisters. Maria felt Jehovah\u2019s care in the love and companionship of the congregation, and Vladimir\u2019s family also received practical help. This teaches us to value the support that comes through other servants of God. Accepting it does not show a lack of trust in Jehovah; it may be precisely a way of accepting his help.<\/p> Answer 3:<\/strong> Jehovah can also give us strength and guidance to serve him within our possibilities. Paula has significant mobility limitations, but she continues preaching in different ways and makes realistic plans. Her experience shows that Jehovah\u2019s support does not first have to eliminate all our limitations. He can help us find ways to remain active and make good use of what we can do.<\/p>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Trusted friends help us get back on our feet when we go through difficulties. As this passage shows, having someone by our side makes a big difference. Such a friend can support and advise us when we need it most. So rather than trying to face every problem on our own, it is good to accept the help of those who know us and care about us.<\/p>2, 3. (a) What does Psalm 115 encourage us to do, and why?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> This psalm repeatedly encourages us to trust in Jehovah because he helps and protects us. We are not putting our trust in someone who is unaware of our needs. Jehovah is our best Friend, and we can turn to him with confidence that he will support us. Remembering this gives us peace, especially when we do not know how to face a difficulty.<\/p>2, 3. (b) What questions will we answer in this article?<\/h3>
4. When do we especially need Jehovah\u2019s help?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> We especially need it when we face very serious problems. This passage reminds us that Jehovah\u2019s power is not limited by what we can imagine. So even if we do not see a solution, we can confidently ask him for help. We do not have to know in advance how he will support us in order to be sure that he can do so.<\/p>5, 6. What do you learn from the account of Jairus?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> I learn that terrible news does not have to destroy our trust in Jehovah. When Jairus learned that his daughter had died, Jesus encouraged him to keep exercising faith. We too can continue seeking Jehovah\u2019s support when a situation gets worse. We should not conclude that he can no longer help us simply because we see no way out.<\/p>7. Why can we always trust that Jehovah will help us? (Jeremiah 17:7, 8).<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> We can trust Jehovah because he has promised to sustain those who rely on him. The comparison to a tree does not indicate that the heat will never come, but that the tree will continue to receive what it needs to survive. Similarly, opposition may affect us, but it does not have to destroy our spiritual strength if we continue trusting in Jehovah.<\/p>8. How did Jehovah protect Abraham and Sarah after they left Ur? (See also the picture).<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Jehovah assured Abraham that he could count on His protection. Although he and Sarah had left a fortified city to live in tents, they were not helpless. Their real security depended on Jehovah, not on the walls of Ur. This detail helps us to value God\u2019s support above whatever material security we may have.<\/p>9. What did Jehovah do for a family that was suffering intense persecution? (See also the note).<\/h3>
10. What may put the trust of parents in Jehovah to the test?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Concern about providing for the family can put their trust to the test. This text shows that caring for the household\u2019s needs is a serious responsibility. The challenge is to fulfill it without allowing economic fear to push spiritual matters into the background. Trusting in Jehovah does not remove the responsibility to care for the children; it helps parents fulfill it in a balanced way.<\/p>11. How did Isaac and Rebekah show that they were concerned about their son\u2019s spirituality? (See also the pictures).<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Isaac and Rebekah showed an attitude that harmonizes with this principle: They gave priority to spiritual matters. They encouraged Jacob to seek a wife who worshipped Jehovah, even though this required a long journey. Their decision teaches us that the spiritual welfare of children should carry more weight than immediate convenience when advising them about their future.<\/p>12. In what situations might we find it difficult to wait patiently?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> We may find it difficult when we suffer an injustice and the situation is not corrected promptly. This psalm links waiting with confidence in Jehovah\u2019s help. That reminds us that waiting does not mean that we have been abandoned. Even if we do not yet see the problem resolved, we can continue relying on him and counting on his care while we wait for him to act.<\/p>13. What do we learn from what happened after the death of King Ahaziah? (Micah 7:7)<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> We learn to wait patiently while continuing to trust that Jehovah hears us. Athaliah ruled for six years, but Jehovah knew what was happening. Finally, Jehoash was crowned. This account helps us maintain the attitude expressed by Micah: to keep looking to Jehovah, even when the solution takes longer than we would like.<\/p>14. What do we learn from Sergey and Maria?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Their experience shows that Jehovah can give us the strength needed to endure patiently. Sergey was imprisoned for five years because of his faith, and the separation was very painful for both of them. Nevertheless, they received support to cope with it. This text helps us understand that we do not depend solely on our emotional endurance: we can ask Jehovah for the strength we lack.<\/p>15. In what situations may we feel completely discouraged?<\/h3>
16. What do you learn from the example of young David? (Psalm 37:5)<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> David teaches us to act while also trusting in Jehovah. He did not merely watch Goliath, but neither did he think that victory depended solely on his ability. This psalm expresses that balance. When facing an obstacle, we should do what is within our power and leave the matter in Jehovah\u2019s hands, convinced that we need his support.<\/p>
Answer 3:<\/strong> David remembered how Jehovah had already delivered him from dangers. Those experiences strengthened his confidence to face Goliath. We too can think of occasions when we received support to keep going. Remembering them does not automatically eliminate fear, but it helps us not to face each new difficulty as though we had never experienced Jehovah\u2019s care.<\/p>17. What does Paula\u2019s experience teach us?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Paula teaches us to seek Jehovah\u2019s guidance and make realistic plans. This psalm connects trust with asking him to show us the way. She recognizes her physical limitations, but she continues looking for ways to preach. We too can ask for guidance so that we can make the most of our present possibilities instead of focusing only on what we can no longer do.<\/p>18, 19. What does the example of faithful Simeon teach us? (See also the picture.)<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Simeon\u2019s example is presented to help us maintain trust and balance while we wait. This passage reminds us of what Jehovah has promised: to end suffering. As we grow older, we may wonder when we will see that happen. But our trust should rest on Jehovah\u2019s promise, not on everything happening within the time frame we personally desire.<\/p>20. Why is our trust in Jehovah strengthened when we reflect on Bible accounts? (See also the box \u201cStrengthen Your Trust in Jehovah by Reading the Bible.\u201d)<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> This psalm shows how recognizing Jehovah\u2019s help produces joy and gratitude. Bible accounts allow us to see how he supported his servants. If afterward we think about the help we have received, those experiences no longer seem distant. They remind us that we too can count on him and strengthen our trust so that we can face present difficulties.<\/p>When is it especially important for us to trust in Jehovah?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Especially when we face serious problems or the heat of opposition. The comparison to a tree well supplied with water shows that we can remain spiritually strong even under pressure. We do not trust that there will never be difficulties; rather, we trust that Jehovah will support us so that we can remain faithful during them.<\/p>How does God support those who trust in him?<\/h3>
Answer 1:<\/strong> Jehovah gives us the strength to endure patiently. This was seen in Sergey and Maria during the years they were separated because of his imprisonment. The difficulty did not end immediately, but they received support to cope with it. Therefore, a prolonged trial does not mean that Jehovah is absent; his help may be seen in the strength to keep going.<\/p>