We Endure Various Trials

The trials we face today are much like those faced by the early disciples of Jesus Christ. In modern times Jehovah’s Witnesses have suffered verbal and physical abuse at the hands of misinformed opposers. Just as in the days of the apostles, much of the opposition is instigated by fanatic religious elements whose false teachings and practices are exposed by the Kingdom good news. (Acts 17:5-9, 13) At times, Jehovah’s people have found relief by claiming legal rights that are guaranteed by political governments. (Acts 22:25; 25:11) However, rulers themselves have also imposed official bans on our work, endeavoring to put an end to our Christian ministry. (Ps. 2:1-3) Under such circumstances, we boldly follow the example of the faithful apostles and continue to “obey God as ruler rather than men.”​—Acts 5:29.

Tests that come because of wars, revolutions, or outright persecution and official bans may make it impossible for you to carry on Christian worship openly. Circumstances may develop making it impossible to hold large congregation meetings. Contact with the branch office may temporarily be broken off. Visits by circuit overseers may be interrupted. New publications may not arrive. If any of these things happen, what should you do?

The answer is: Do whatever you can and as much as you can in the way of pure worship, under the circumstances. Personal study should be possible. Usually small groups can meet for study in homes. Publications studied in the past and the Bible itself can be used as a basis for meetings. Do not become excited or worried. Generally, the Governing Body will be able to establish some form of communication with responsible brothers in a short time.

But even if you find yourself isolated from all your Christian brothers, keep in mind that you are not isolated from Jehovah and his Son, Jesus Christ. Your hope can remain firm. Jehovah can still hear your prayers, and he can strengthen you with his spirit. Look to him for guidance. Remember that you are a servant of Jehovah and a disciple of Jesus Christ, so as opportunities to witness open up, make good use of them. Jehovah will bless your efforts, and others may soon join you in true worship.​—Acts 4:13-31; 5:27-42; Phil. 1:27-30; 4:6, 7; 2 Tim. 4:16-18.

Besides persecution and direct opposition to our ministry, there are other difficult situations that you may have to endure. Although having the freedom to preach openly, some have become discouraged and have stopped serving Jehovah because of the apathy of people in their territory. Others have had to cope with their own physical or emotional illnesses or otherwise have had to endure limitations imposed by their human frailties. The apostle Paul had to endure a trial of some sort that interfered with his service or made it difficult at times. (2 Cor. 12:7) Also, Epaphroditus, a first-century Christian from Philippi, became “depressed because [his friends] heard he had fallen sick.” (Phil. 2:25-27) Our human imperfections and those of others may pose problems particularly difficult to endure. Imperfections may show up as personality conflicts with fellow Christians. But such obstacles too can be successfully endured and overcome by those who adhere to the counsel of Jehovah’s Word.​—Ezek. 2:3-5; 1 Cor. 9:27; 13:8; Col. 3:12-14; 1 Pet. 4:8.