Christians who have been enlightened by God’s Word do not need to make these decisions simply on the basis of personal whim or emotion. They can consider the divine principles recorded in the Scriptures and use these in making personal decisions as they look to God for direction, trusting him and putting their confidence in the future that he has in store for those who love him.​—Prov. 3:5, 6; Ps. 119:105.

● How could Asahel be listed as a divisional commander in David’s army (1 Chron. 27:7) when, according to 2 Samuel 2:23, Asahel was killed even before David became king over all Israel?​—R. F., U.S.A.

At 1 Chronicles 27:7 Asahel is listed as a divisional commander of the month-by-month arrangement of troops: “The fourth for the fourth month was Asahel, Joab’s brother, and Zebadiah his son after him, and in his division there were twenty-four thousand.” The text at 2 Samuel 2:23 shows that following the test struggle at the pool of Gibeon and the subsequent rout of the Israelite forces under Abner, Asahel doggedly pursued the fleeing Abner and was finally killed by Abner when he refused to desist from the pursuit. (2 Sam. 2:12-28) Since Asahel died before David’s becoming king over all Israel, his mention here is believed by some commentators to prove that the arrangement here mentioned was to some extent made before all the tribes came to David in Hebron to acknowledge him as King. In this regard The Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible (Vol. 1, page 244) says: “It is possible that we may have here the prototype of the Davidic militia organized earlier in the Judean rule of the king, and that his original list has been brought up to date by the inclusion of Zebadiah, son and successor of Asahel in his command.”​—Compare 1 Chronicles chapter 12.

Another suggestion arises out of the fact that at 1 Chronicles 27:7, the fourth division’s commander is said to be not only Asahel but “Zebadiah his son after him.” This position of commander for a month was a privilege held by a distinguished veteran, and in some cases such honor may have been posthumous. Hence, the name “Asahel” here may have reference to his house, represented in his son Zebadiah, who is referred to as Asahel’s successor.

Announcements

1968 YEARBOOK AND CALENDAR

Another year of record-making preaching has concluded and the annual report of the president of the Watch Tower Society is being released. Its account of the progress of Kingdom preaching will thrill you and the stimulating experiences of those from around the world who are enduring in the face of great opposition will strengthen your faith and encourage you to ‘keep on seeking first the Kingdom and God’s righteousness.’ Send for your copy now. It is available after November 27 for 50c. Send for the beautiful 1968 calendar also. Only 25c.

FIELD MINISTRY

The true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ are builders. They build up Christian personalities on the right foundation of Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 3:11-13) They know that among the problems that hinder some from being built into Christian personalities is failure to understand why God has permitted wickedness. Some persons, stumbling over this issue, have become easy prey for such teachings as evolution. These persons need help, and Jehovah’s witnesses have the means to help them​—a recently released, delightfully illustrated book that discusses both evolution and God’s permission of wickedness. This enlightening volume entitled “Did Man Get Here by Evolution or by Creation?” they are offering to all sincere seekers of truth during November, along with a booklet, for only 25c.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES FOR THE WEEKS

December 10: “Let Down Your Nets for a Catch,” ¶1-26. Page 684. Songs to Be Used: 37, 83.

December 17: “Let Down Your Nets for a Catch,” ¶27-32, and Orders for Worldwide Fishing, ¶1-21. Page 690. Songs to Be Used: 38, 108.