“Working Night and Day” to Make Disciples

“Having a tender affection for you, we were well pleased to impart to you, not only the good news of God but also our own souls, because you became beloved to us. . . . It was with working night and day . . . that we preached the good news of God to you.”​—1 Thess. 2:8, 9.

1. (a) To what end does Jehovah’s organization work? (b) At what should God’s servants now busy themselves?

JEHOVAH’S organization works with a sense of urgency. There is a job to get done. In harmony with the prayer that Jehovah’s name be sanctified, devoted heavenly creatures “have no rest day and night as they say: ‘Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the Almighty.’” (Rev. 4:8; Matt. 6:9) Likewise, throughout the earth in this “time of the end,” dedicated servants of God, although having human limitations, busy themselves in “holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion, awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah, through which the heavens being on fire will be dissolved and the elements being intensely hot will melt!” How wonderful God’s promise of righteous “new heavens and a new earth” that will follow that fiery “day”!​—2 Pet. 3:11-13; Dan. 12:1-4.

2. What is involved in service to God?

² Service to God is not the daily humdrum of an ordinary secular job. It does not involve just a day shift or a night shift. It is a service that is motivated by intense desire to give of oneself “night and day” in obedience to Jesus’ commands to preach and to make disciples, out of Christian love. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19; John 13:34) This does not mean that a person should ignore his need for rest and refreshment, as that would in time deplete his strength and health. But he should be willing and eager to help others spiritually at every opportunity, whether “day” or “night.”

3. How did Paul and his companions regard the congregation at Thessalonica?

³ The apostle Paul and his companions did just that! They were moved by “tender affection” for interested ones. When they formed a new congregation at Thessalonica, it quickly experienced trials and persecutions. But because of their integrity under trial, these new Christians “became beloved” to those who had studied with them. Paul and his fellow servants of God had been moved to impart, not only “good news,” but also their “own souls” on behalf of the Thessalonians. While they were with the young congregation, they worked hard “night and day” to care for their own needs and, besides that, they spent much time in teaching the new disciples. In this way, they truly poured out their souls in night-and-day service to Jehovah.

4. What realistic attitude should we take toward our service today?

⁴ Is our concern for “sheeplike” ones in our own area that strong? We know we have divinely assigned work to do. But most of us work at secular jobs so as not to be a burden to others, or we care for our families, or we go to school. At other times we share in the field service. But how concerned are we about interested ones that we find as we preach? Do we truly have “tender affection” for them? We may devote quite a number of hours to the field service, and we rejoice to leave some books or magazines with kindly-disposed persons. We probably make some return visits. But sometimes a month or two may go by without returning to see how interested ones are faring. Are we really thinking in terms of lives? So that they may find the way to life, are we “well pleased to impart . . . not only the good news of God, but also our own souls”?

5. What can we learn from Paul’s pattern?

⁵ Paul set a splendid pattern in expending himself on behalf of his new brothers and other interested ones. At his final parting with the elders of the Ephesus congregation, he said: “Therefore keep awake, and bear in mind that for three years, night and day, I did not quit admonishing each one with tears. I have exhibited to you in all things that by thus laboring you must assist those who are weak, and must bear in mind the words of the Lord Jesus, when he himself said, ‘There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.’” (Acts 20:31, 35) If we, like Paul, have genuine concern for the “sheep,” we will work heart and soul on ways to help them. We will endeavor to make return visits on them within a few days, if possible, or perhaps call them by phone to stimulate their interest. The Devil and his agents will try to destroy that interest, so we must be alert to help those “sheep.”​—Luke 8:11, 12.

KEEPING BUSY “NIGHT AND DAY”

6, 7. (a) What expansion is taking place, and what challenge does this pose? (b) Why should we make calls and return visits in our territory?

⁶ Fresh interest is being found as we keep preaching the good news. Hence the volume of work is always expanding. New congregations are being formed and more Bibles, books and magazines are being distributed​—a total of 313,229,157 publications during the 1974 service year. Additionally, 2,387,904 new subscriptions for The Watchtower and Awake! were obtained. There is urgent need to revisit those who receive this literature.

⁷ Some householders may not even accept literature. But they may make appreciative comments on the zeal of Jehovah’s witnesses in calling so frequently at their homes. The concern of such people over the worsening corruption and unrighteousness in the earth opens the way to give them further help. More and more, righteously inclined persons are coming to appreciate that the selfish, heartless society of our day holds out absolutely no hope for the future. (Ps. 92:7) By repeated calls on such persons, we may convince them of a realistic hope. With that in view, “we are working hard and exerting ourselves, because we have rested our hope on a living God, who is a Savior of all sorts of men, especially of faithful ones.”​—1 Tim. 4:10.

8. What may result from applying the counsel of Ecclesiastes 11:6?

⁸ Keeping busy “night and day,” we may find good response when we talk with workmates, neighbors or fellow students.

A congregation in a university city reports that recently six students have associated regularly in the meetings. One of these is now enjoying the regular pioneer service while attending university. Another student to whom this new Witness introduced the truth has returned to her hometown to take up the pioneer service, and still another that she taught has just been baptized.

There is fine counsel at Ecclesiastes 11:6: “In the morning sow your seed and until the evening do not let your hand rest; for you are not knowing where this will have success, either here or there, or whether both of them will alike be good.” So by using every opportunity that comes along, “night and day,” to converse with others about the glorious hope contained in “this good news of the kingdom,” we will find here and there, and often in unexpected places, hearts responsive to the Kingdom message.

9. Why can we be confident of Jehovah’s blessing?

⁹ Jehovah ‘knows the hearts of all.’ If we will but preach and teach diligently, the message will take root in honest hearts, and Jehovah will keep “making it grow.” (Acts 1:24; 1 Cor. 3:6) We may meet with rebuffs and disappointments on the way, but we can look forward confidently to the fulfillment of Solomon’s words: “Send out your bread upon the surface of the waters, for in the course of many days you will find it again.”​—Eccl. 11:1.

10. How may we work with a purpose?

¹⁰ Genuine concern should prompt all of Jehovah’s witnesses to follow through on interest found. When that is the case, they do not merely note the name of the person, and then put the record in a book bag, forgetting it. Rather, they are deeply concerned to give these new ones needed help. So they do as Proverbs 3:27 instructs: “Do not hold back good from those to whom it is owing, when it happens to be in the power of your hand to do it.” Yes, do it! By purposefully calling again, as soon as possible, to continue your Bible-based conversation with the interested person, you can ‘strike while the iron is hot,’ as it were, enlarging that interest before opposers have time or opportunity to quench it.

A Kingdom publisher made a return visit on an interested person just one hour after the initial call. In a little more than a week, three more return visits were made for answering Bible questions, and then a home Bible study was started.

11. What is the great need of the people, and how can the Christian help to fill that need?

¹¹ Each year, many millions of publications, in more than a hundred and sixty languages, are left by Jehovah’s witnesses in the homes of interested persons world wide. But people need more than literature in their homes to be spared through the coming “great tribulation.” They need help in taking Bible truths into their minds and hearts. (Rom. 10:10-15; 12:1, 2) They need to receive the “mark” of the true Christian personality in their foreheads. (Ezek. 9:4; Eph. 4:24) It takes time to learn Bible principles and to put on this “new personality.” The Christian servant of God must continue to give loving, patient, understanding help, so that newly interested ones may really learn the requirements for everlasting life, and make their minds over to Christian living. Are you willing to give them that help? Having constantly in mind the urgency of the times, and that it is a matter of life and death, let us expend ourselves prayerfully in their behalf while there is time.​—John 9:4; Phil. 1:9-11.

12, 13. (a) What adjustments did the apostles and others make in order to share in disciple-making? (b) How may we enjoy similar blessings today?

¹² Someone may say, “I do not have the ability to conduct a home Bible study.” Or, “I just do not have the time to conduct a study with someone on a regular weekly basis.” True, some of us are new or inexperienced, or we have not had the best education. With others, the pressure of making a living in this modern society may seem to limit time for other things Still, can we not do the same as the apostles and other early disciples? Some of them had been occupied with fishing and other secular occupations. But they adjusted their way of life so that they could follow Jesus in learning how to preach and teach. They made time for it.​—Mark 1:16-20.

¹³ Those apostles did not have great worldly education or knowledge. But they had God’s spirit, and they accepted the training that Jehovah provided. In a short time, their zealous preaching and teaching resulted in a remarkable increase to “about five thousand” believers in the city of Jerusalem. The opposing rulers could do nothing to stop it. “Now when they beheld the outspokenness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were men unlettered and ordinary, they got to wondering. And they began to recognize about them that they used to be with Jesus.”​—Acts 4:4, 13; John 7:46.

14. (a) What is our big interest today, and why is it urgent? (b) Our belief in the prophecies should prompt us to do what?

¹⁴ Peter, John and the other disciples were interested in saving lives. That is our big interest, also, today. A doomed world stands on the brink of the “great tribulation”​—“a time of distress such as has not been made to occur since there came to be a nation until that time.” But the remaining ones of spiritual Israel expect to escape, and there will be rejoicing, too, when “a great crowd . . . out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues . . . come out of the great tribulation,” because of having exercised faith in the shed blood of the Lamb, Christ Jesus, and by taking up the worship of Jehovah “day and night in his temple.” (Dan. 12:1; Rev. 7:9-15) Do you believe this? Then why not make the necessary adjustments in your life so that you may expend yourself to the full in calling on and revisiting honest-hearted people, and studying with them till they have set their feet firmly on the way to salvation? The urgency of the time demands this effort!​—Rom. 13:11, 12.

15. In what ways may the discipling work be cultivated?

¹⁵ By all means, we should keep busy in aiding those who are genuinely interested in God’s Word. If for some reason we are unable to make a return visit soon, we should ask another Kingdom proclaimer to help out. Elders and ministerial servants in the congregation will also be glad to assist in arranging for all interested ones to have proper attention. To all who are sharing in the Kingdom work, perhaps assisting for the first time in distributing Kingdom News, the call goes out to progress into other aspects of the field service, making return visits and conducting studies. Like the young overseer Timothy, you, too, can make progress, in line with Paul’s admonition: “Ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons. . . . Stay by these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.”​—1 Tim. 4:15, 16.

ADAPTING TO NEEDS OF INTERESTED ONES

16. To what uses may the Truth and Peace and Security books be put?

¹⁶ The Christian servant of God needs to be flexible and discerning in starting and conducting studies in the Bible. People who know something about the Bible, or who have had contact with Christendom’s religions may be glad to study the Bible with the aid of the book The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life. Or, if they are deeply concerned in finding the solution to world troubles or are disturbed by the bad conduct of people, a study in the book True Peace and Security​—From What Source? may be appropriate. Before being baptized as a disciple of Jesus Christ, it would be beneficial for each new one to read both the above books, while making reference to the Bible, so as to understand clearly not only doctrine but also principles of Christian living.​—Acts 17:11.

17. How may the teaching work be adjusted to situations throughout the earth?

¹⁷ In some parts of the earth, the people may have had little, if any, education. Some do not even know how to read and write. But among these also are to be found honest-hearted ones who may be privileged to survive the “great tribulation.” In some lands where there has been no written language, God’s servants have used pictograms to convey vital Bible teachings. In many countries, new ones are taught by Jehovah’s witnesses to read and write, so that they can advance in Bible study. Publications are provided in Braille for use of the blind. In Africa and in many countries of Christendom, the simply put booklet “This Good News of the Kingdom” has reached many hearts with a clear-cut message. In some Asiatic countries, the booklet “Look! I Am Making All Things New” has been very effective for instructing new ones who know nothing about the Bible and its background. For example:

An Asiatic gentleman who held a prominent position in a bank bought a large plot of ground and made plans for building a beautiful home on it. But at this stage his wife started to study with Jehovah’s witnesses. After some persuasion, he also started to study, using the booklet “Look! I Am Making All Things New.” On studying up to paragraph 4, he decided that Jehovah’s new order was what he was interested in. From that point he made very diligent study of the Bible. Not only did he give up his plans for building the new home, but he also resigned his position at the bank, so that he could better concentrate on his Bible studies. After two months of study, he became active in field service. He and his wife have moved to a smaller apartment so that they will be free of hindrances when they qualify shortly to enter the pioneer service. The pioneer who studies with them declares: “What a wonderful privilege it is to help these sheeplike ones!”

18. How may we be flexible in working toward the goal of conducting a study?

¹⁸ There are many Bible publications designed to capture the interest and meet the needs of new ones. Those who have a background in science or education may hesitate to study the Bible​—the target of so much criticism. But discussions with them on material in the books Is the Bible Really the Word of God? and Did Man Get Here by Evolution or by Creation? may show them that the Bible provides the highest education and that it is not unscientific at all. Others can be reached by taking an interest in their children and showing parents how to study the book Listening to the Great Teacher with little ones. In time a regular study may be started with the entire family. So we need to be flexible in working toward this goal of conducting a study, and also in choosing the Bible study aid that will be most appropriate.

19. How may we adapt to problem situations?

¹⁹ Sometimes adaptability is needed, too, in arranging when and where to study. For example, a Witness who studied with a fisherman had to arrange for evenings when the fishing boat was in from the sea, adjusting the time of his own family study to fit it in. Some have had to study during lunch hours at work, perhaps fitting in two brief studies each week. The study location may be a park bench, a parked automobile, or the home of the Witness, if there is opposition to studying elsewhere.

WHAT WILL YOU DO IN THIS WORK OF DISCIPLE-MAKING?

20. To succeed in disciple-making, what is necessary? Illustrate.

²⁰ What an individual can do may depend on varied circumstances, such as family responsibilities, health and other factors. But what is your desire? Is it to expand your field activity, so as really to succeed in disciple-making? Then apply yourself, having full trust in Jehovah. Here is how matters worked out for one who did so:

A young lady who grew up in nominal Christianity felt that something was lacking. She was impressed by all the beauty in creation, but she was not praising the Creator. But from Jehovah’s witnesses she learned of God’s marvelous universal organization and his Kingdom purposes. She could hardly wait to be baptized and then to qualify as a regular pioneer. Before that her life had been molded to serve only her husband and her small children. With their cooperation, she could now adjust, not only to keep serving them, but also to serve Jehovah first and foremost. One by one, she solved her problems by reliance on Jehovah. Her husband consented to her relinquishing her work with him at his place of business, and on the same day he received a surprise in that his own income was unexpectedly doubled. At the end of a long day’s field activity, she would be tired, but she let her husband see only her joy. Then, just when she needed it most, her husband provided her with a light car for her service. She never misses a meeting, and daily she reads the Bible, finding great encouragement in the faithful examples of Jehovah’s servants of former days. On one occasion she traveled with her children more than a thousand miles, to preach in her home island, and there she located so much interest in the Bible that special pioneers were sent in to follow up. This young housewife was truly granted her life’s desire.​—Ps. 145:16.

21. Who may find real joy in the field service today?

²¹ As this and many other real-life experiences illustrate, the vital work of Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making is not to be performed in our own strength. We must depend on Jehovah and keep on seeking his direction. He will help us to cultivate our abilities. Paul wrote to first-century Christians: “For you behold his calling of you, brothers, that not many wise in a fleshly way were called.” No, “but God chose the foolish things of the world, that he might put the wise men to shame.” (1 Cor. 1:26, 27) It is the same today. Not those with a higher theological education, but humble people who love God and their fellowman, and who work night and day to make disciples​—these are the ones who have success and joy in their service. Their genuine interest in others shines through, and “the glorious knowledge of God” that they have in their hearts also shines forth to others, by God’s power, to recommend His truth.​—2 Cor. 4:6, 7.

22. (a) What assurance does 1 Corinthians 15:58 give to those who make the effort? (b) Illustrate by local or other experience the joy to be found in night and day service.

²² Regardless of the response, our work is not in vain. (1 Cor. 15:58) Some of our greatest joys can come from disciple-making. A housewife, who faced opposition from her in-laws, but who courageously quit working in their restaurant business in order to enter the full-time pioneer service, writes concerning this joy:

Though the parents were disappointed, they could see that their son’s family had become more united and happy, and that their daughter-in-law, far from being lazy, was working hard from morning to night. Also, my activity became a blessing to our family. During the first year, our seven-year-old son became a publisher, and at nine he was baptized. He is zealously enjoying the service. In less than five years since starting in the pioneer service, I have aided nineteen persons to the point of baptism. In the first two months of this 1974 service year, three persons with whom I study have been baptized, and today all eight persons with whom I study attend meetings. Three more of these will start preaching in the near future. When I find others who are glad to study, I feel that Jehovah knows his sheep well and wants to have them gathered, so that I am really filled with joy. Sometimes I am so very busy, and at times I get tired, but then I read Isaiah 40:25-31 again and again. I give thanks for my privilege in making disciples, and feel satisfaction in living life to the full. If I had my life to live over again, I would choose the same work and way of life.

23. (a) What encouragement may those in secular occupation receive from the example of Paul and Silas? (b) How may newly discipled ones become “our glory and joy”?

²³ Not all of us may be able to expand our service to the same extent. And some territories may be comparatively unresponsive. But all of us can work heart and soul in the preaching and teaching work, confident that Jehovah will lead us to those that belong to him. Many of us can be like Paul and Silas, who were pleased to work “night and day,” not only at their secular occupation, but also to ‘impart the good news of God along with their own souls’ to beloved new disciples. And concerning these we can say, as did the apostle: “For what is our hope or joy or crown of exultation​—why, is it not in fact you?​—before our Lord Jesus at his presence? You certainly are our glory and joy.” (1 Thess. 2:7-9, 19, 20) And it will be a continuing joy. For after the “great tribulation” has passed, what joy it will be in the new system to have eternally the pleasant association of those we helped to know Jehovah!

Walking Whole-souled in the Way of Life

“‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole strength and with your whole mind,’ and, ‘your neighbor as yourself.’ . . . ‘Keep on doing this and you will get life.’”​—Luke 10:27, 28.

1. What two contrasting ways of life are to be seen on earth today?

THROUGH his Son Jesus Christ, the Great Life-Giver, Jehovah, now offers mankind the “real life.” It is a meaningful life, bringing peace and satisfaction. But many today choose a different kind of life. Their heart and soul are ruled by selfishness, and they squander strength and mind in pursuing the fleeting pleasures of the “modern” permissive society. Without hope for the future, they follow the line: “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we are to die.” (1 Cor. 15:32) Contrariwise, there are others who expect to live tomorrow, and forever. They are the ones who really love God and neighbor. They are zealous “to work at good, to be rich in fine works, to be liberal, ready to share, safely treasuring up for themselves a fine foundation for the future.” And why? “In order that they may get a firm hold on the real life.”​—1 Tim. 6:18, 19; Ps. 36:7, 9; John 17:3.

2. (a) What does God require of those who will gain life? (b) Why may we commend many whose field-service opportunities are limited?

² What God requires of those who will gain life is whole-souled service. This means giving of our very selves as slaves of God, and of Christ. (Eph. 6:6; Col. 3:23, 24) Service to God includes the vital work of preaching and disciple-making. Many Witnesses engage in this while taking care of a family or other Scriptural secular responsibilities. (1 Tim. 5:8) At times, these have to overcome great problems, such as very exacting daily tasks, persecution or poor health, in order to devote just a few hours to the field service. But even this dedicated service has great value in the eyes of God. It is like the widow’s “two small coins” of which Jesus spoke so favorably at Mark 12:41-44. Those whose field service is limited because of such circumstances should never be discouraged that they are unable to become pioneers, devoting at least 1,200 hours each year in preaching and teaching God’s Word to the public. The important thing is to serve God whole-souled, in whatever capacity.​—Mark 12:30.

3. How may it be possible to enter the door to greater activity?

³ However, for many dedicated servants of God, young and old, “a large door that leads to activity” lies wide open. (1 Cor. 16:9) It is the door into pioneer service. By taking a practical look at problems that hinder, and by exercising faith, many may be able to move even mountainlike obstacles out of the way in order to serve as pioneers.​—Matt. 17:20.

4. Having in mind the words of Paul, John, and Jesus, what questions may we now ask ourselves?

⁴ Let us ask ourselves some questions: Do we really recognize the urgency and the lateness of the hour? Do we “keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord”? Does our present career harmonize fully with our dedication to Jehovah? Do we appreciate that undue concern over material things will get us absolutely nowhere? “The world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever.”​—Eph. 5:10; 1 John 2:17; Luke 21:34-36.

“KEEP ON DOING IT MORE FULLY”

5. What should we be doing before baptism, and after? Illustrate by local or other experience.

⁵ In order to qualify for baptism, many have made big changes in their lives. They have cleaned themselves up from worldly ways. They have repented of their former way of life, turned around, making a personal dedication to God and thus, on the basis of faith in Jesus’ sacrificial blood, are seeking a good conscience with God. They no longer work out “the will of the nations.” (1 Pet. 4:3, 7) But does progress stop with such dedication and baptism? It should not. At 1 Thessalonians 4:1, Paul admonished newly dedicated Christians: “Finally, brothers, we request you and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, just as you received the instruction from us on how you ought to walk and please God, just as you are in fact walking, that you would keep on doing it more fully.” This means thinking and acting positively in order to enlarge, if possible, one’s share in the work of God. A Christian overseer writes:

Five years ago, when my wife first studied with Jehovah’s witnesses, I opposed her. How grateful I am now that she did not give up! At that time my life was filled with playing golf, fishing, gambling at Mah-Jongg. I smoked forty cigarettes a day. But then the truth took root in my heart, too. I gave up all these things as empty and worthless. Former associates mocked me at first, but later they ceased their opposition and even encouraged me in my course. My mother and sister opposed me bitterly. But in order to enter the pioneer service, I took a part-time job that paid only one fifth of my previous salary. Supplementing this from my savings, I could take adequate care of my pioneer wife and young child. I came to learn how wonderfully Jehovah helps in various ways. Now I am conducting seven home Bible studies, and, from these, two persons are already serving as active publishers. My mother now praises our family for walking in the way of truth, and I pray that she, too, may soon become one of Jehovah’s witnesses.

This Witness did not stop at dedication. What joy has resulted!

6. Like Paul, how may we regard a career in the present system? Illustrate the practical application by local or other experience.

⁶ All of us who make a dedication to Jehovah should reflect: Are we truly doing his will every day of our lives? Or are we still living largely for self, with no serious thought about God’s will? Though it may call for sacrificing a career and material gains, the pioneer service brings spiritual blessings beyond comparison. The apostle Paul considered worldly gain to be “a lot of refuse,” and so he stretched “forward to the things ahead.” (Phil. 3:7, 8, 13) All who dedicate themselves to Jehovah today should consider seriously whether they, like Paul, can expand their activity.

A government official had worked for thirty-four years at his job, ten of these years in management. His wife and two daughters learned the truth and became pioneers. He also studied, and a “tug-of-war” began. While on a business trip to New York, he dropped in for a day at Yankee Stadium, where the 1969 International Assembly of Jehovah’s Witnesses was being held. Seeing the unity, love and peace among the throngs at that assembly convinced him that the hope of a new order was more than a dream. Later that same year, he attended the entire assembly in Hawaii, together with his wife. The hospitality the Witnesses there showed him amid beautiful surroundings conveyed to him what paradise could be like. He made adjustments so that he could qualify to be baptized. But did he really need to do secular work at all? Actually not. The “Divine Victory” International Assembly in July 1973 convinced him that the pioneer service should be his vocation. Two days after the assembly, he resigned from his office, and one month later he joined his family in the regular pioneer activity. He has truly gained Jehovah’s blessing​—along with a healthy suntan.

7. (a) According to Paul, from what things should we flee, and what things should we pursue? (b) Illustrate how Jehovah blesses the flight from materialism.

⁷ It is dangerous to get involved in a materialistic way of life, setting our hearts on material possessions and pleasures, and letting such pursuits dominate our lives. The Bible counsels, not just to get rid of the materialistic “injurious things” that spring from “the love of money,” but to “flee from these things.” This means acting urgently, just as in ‘fleeing’ from wrong desires, ‘fleeing’ from fornication and ‘fleeing’ from idolatry. It will help us to flee from materialism if we take positive steps to hasten in the opposite direction, to “pursue righteousness, godly devotion, faith, love, endurance, mildness of temper.” Many have done this by entering the pioneer service, which equips them wonderfully to “fight the fine fight of the faith” and to “get a firm hold” on everlasting life. (1 Tim. 6:10-12, 17-19; 2 Tim. 2:22; 1 Cor. 6:18; 10:14) A young sister writes:

“One obstacle I had to overcome to enter the pioneer service was my surroundings​—wealth and materialism, accompanied by many worldly temptations. It was like Matthew 13:22​—the seed sown among many thorns, but I kept thinking how fine it would be to show Moses’ kind of strong faith. (Heb. 11:24-27)” So this sister resisted the social life connected with her family’s internationally famous luxury hotel. When a prestigious marriage was planned for her, she declined this also. Along with her mother and younger sister, she cultivated the pioneer spirit. She took up the regular pioneer activity in unassigned territory bordering on a special pioneer assignment. She has shared with the other pioneers in the joy of developing this area, so that today they have a new congregation numbering 39 congregation publishers, along with seven pioneers, and with an attendance of 116 at the Memorial in 1974. She says: “The group in my territory continues to increase. We now have twenty attending our Tuesday evening meeting, and three new sisters were baptized at our circuit assembly. I am so thankful for the blessing and increase that Jehovah provides. My health, which I used to worry about, has become quite good, and I serve joyfully every day.”

This young Witness did indeed choose “the real life.”

8. (a) What rewarding career awaits young people today? (b) How have many older ones, too, reawakened youthful joy?

⁸ Love for Jehovah should prompt us to use our strength and resources in his service. What golden opportunities lie before us while we are still young! “Remember, now, your Grand Creator in the days of your young manhood, before the calamitous days proceed to come, or the years have arrived when you will say: ‘I have no delight in them.’” (Eccl. 12:1) By channeling youthful energy and abilities into helping others to learn God’s will, young folks will find the most satisfying and rewarding occupation on earth today. Many older ones, too, despite diminishing energy, make a most creditable contribution.

An eighty-two-year-old regular pioneer sister is opposed by her family. But she rises at three o’clock in the morning to do her farmhouse chores, so that she will have time for the field service later in the day. On the average each month, she devotes more than 120 hours to the field activity, distributing 140 magazines and conducting several home Bible studies.

9. (a) What great service may parents perform on behalf of their children? (b) How may the parents’ own example benefit their families and others in the congregation?

⁹ Are you a parent with young children? Parents can do their children a great service by molding their thinking in line with Bible principles, wholeheartedly recommending to them a career as pioneers. Thus young ones gain a real goal in life, along with strong faith. (Heb. 11:6) If parents themselves can make room for the pioneer service, then the entire family benefits by the daily devotion to theocratic matters, and all may be aided thereby to grow together spiritually in the bond of true Christian love. (Col. 3:14-21) This example can have a wholesome effect, too, on the viewpoint of other families in the congregation.​—Phil. 3:17; 1 Thess. 1:2-7.

One of Jehovah’s witnesses gave up his job as an overseer in an auto factory, so that he and his wife could serve together as pioneers and bring up their young children with the same goal. After three years their funds gave out, but, in line with Matthew 6:33, they sought a way to remain in the pioneer service. Jehovah answered their prayers, and the husband, now a Christian overseer, was able to obtain suitable part-time work along with other brothers. He says that during his years in the pioneer activity he has learned not to look at things from a mere human viewpoint. He regards Hebrews 12:1, 2 as the signpost to successful pioneer service. One son now serves at Bethel in Japan, and the daughter is a regular pioneer. In July 1970, when this brother entered the pioneer service, the local congregation totaled just sixty publishers but in March 1974 they reported sixty-three pioneers, and in the same month fifty-one new ones from this congregation were baptized at a circuit assembly. In all, they now have 225 publishers. This one family has brought more than thirty new ones, including six other complete families, into association with the Christian congregation.

When the family pioneer spirit permeates a congregation, it truly brings a marvelous blessing from Jehovah.​—Prov. 28:20.

10, 11. (a) How are believers in divided families often blessed? (b) Using local or other examples, show how pioneering brings blessings and protection.

¹⁰ In divided families, too, young minds may be molded by the believing parent. How often it is that children choose to follow the life pattern of that parent! This is often due, no doubt, to the child’s seeing and appreciating firsthand “the righteousness that issues from God on the basis of faith.” (Phil. 3:9) By word and by example, devoted parents can encourage their children in preparing to make Jehovah’s service their life’s work, just as Eunice encouraged her son Timothy.​—2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15; Prov. 4:1-9.

A young Witness was encouraged by his mother​—herself a pioneer—​to share in temporary pioneer service frequently during his three years at high school. He pleaded many times with his unbelieving father for permission to enter the regular pioneer service on graduation, but his father required that he go on to college. His teacher reproached him for his zealous preaching activity during the vacation when he could have been preparing for the university entrance examination. But unexpectedly, the test paper contained many general-knowledge questions about the Bible. So he could pass ahead of many of the other students. By planning on a not-too-heavy university schedule, he could now enroll as a regular pioneer. Among the many home Bible studies that he has conducted, four were held in the evenings with interested husbands of sisters in the congregation. Two of these husbands were baptized at the “Divine Victory” International Assembly.

¹¹ Serving month in, month out, year in, year out, in the pioneer service means a busy life. But this deep involvement in Kingdom activity can be a marvelous protection today.​—Eph. 5:15-17.

MAKING ROOM FOR THE PIONEER SERVICE

12. How may families cooperate so that one member or more may serve as pioneers?

¹² The apostle Paul set a splendid example in providing for his companions, as well as for himself, so that all could continue advancing spiritual interests to the full. He could say: “I have coveted no man’s silver or gold or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands have attended to the needs of me and of those with me.” (Acts 20:33, 34) The same principle can be applied to Christian families. It can be made a family project for one or more members of the family, or even the entire family, to enter the pioneer service. Even so, it is advisable for each one in the pioneer service to use his own hands in making some contribution toward his own support. All members of the family, whether actually in the pioneer service or not, should be interested in furthering pioneer activity and be willing to make sacrifices to that end.​—2 Cor. 8:13-15.

13. What compensates for sacrifices made in order to enter the pioneer ranks? Illustrate.

¹³ In order to enter the pioneer service, a husband may have to relinquish a highpaying job, or the family may have to give up some material luxuries. But spiritual blessings and the joy of this full-time service more than compensate.​—Mark 10:29, 30; Rom. 14:17.

A young doctor, now an overseer in the Christian congregation, writes: “I had to work from early morning to late at night, including Sunday and holidays, at the University Hospital. However, I found part-time doctor’s work in another city, that enabled me to start in the pioneer service. My wife had been brought up in a wealthy family, but to become a pioneer she gladly abandoned her prosperous way of life. She kept on using the clothes she had before entering the pioneer service, and was satisfied with simple meals. She well understood that in serving Jehovah the best of clothes and time-consuming cooking are not necessary. Her former frail health improved, and she has been able to enjoy her pioneer service, leading four persons to dedication, to become her true companions. I myself have been able to help the owner of a barbershop to dedication, and five persons from that shop have now become active publishers, taking turns in going out in the field service. They praise Jehovah in a family arrangement. Appreciating these wonderful blessings from Jehovah, we pray wholeheartedly that he will keep us in the pioneer service.”

14. (a) When economic problems arise, how may they be solved? (b) Illustrate the truthfulness of Philippians 4:13.

¹⁴ How may pioneers cope with the economic problems that often arise? The main factor is faith, seeking first the Kingdom. (Matt. 6:33) Where there is faith, there is a way. A pioneer may have to deny himself certain things, but such sacrifices are pleasing to God.​—Luke 9:23-25; 18:29, 30.

A former circuit overseer, who continues in the pioneer service with his wife while they also care for their young baby, reports: “The arrival of our child was a challenge to us to rely on Jehovah as we set out wholeheartedly to handle this responsibility. In line with Luke 14:28, 29, we worked out what the living expenses would be for the three of us. I got a job making early-morning paper deliveries, as this did not use up too much energy. Our child was born just two weeks before the ‘Divine Victory’ International Assembly, but though three weeks’ rest had been advised, we made careful preparation for the 1,300-mile round-trip journey. Thus we were able to attend, and the baby returned home fat and well. In preaching from door to door, we each take a turn for an hour and a half with the baby. Because the baby is with us in service all day long, it sleeps soundly at night, and we do not have problems like others who have to get up during the night to care for a crying baby. We all sleep well. Seeing our example, other housewives in the congregation have now arranged to enter the pioneer service. Between the two of us, we are now conducting fifteen home Bible studies, and in September we were able to help two housewives and one husband start in the field service. Five others of our studies who are attending meetings are expected to start soon in the field activity. We have come to appreciate in our hearts that the Christian who faces up to a challenge can accomplish much in Jehovah’s strength.​—Phil. 4:13.

15. (a) What assurance does Jesus give in the Sermon on the Mount? (b) What preparation should be made for pioneer service?

¹⁵ Strong faith and initiative are necessary in making adjustments to enter and to stay in the pioneer service. Jehovah can provide marvelously. Do not Jesus’ words at Matthew 6:24-34 prove this to be so? All who are desirous of expanding their service to God should carefully consider this passage and the related scripture at Luke 12:22-31. This does not mean plunging into the pioneer work without making adequate preparation. It does not mean putting aside just enough funds to get through to some date in the mid-1970’s. Rather, it means adjusting one’s affairs so as to stay in full-time service, year after year, while at the same time taking proper care of family and other responsibilities. First, “calculate the expense,” and then take practical steps to attain the goal of the pioneer service.​—Luke 14:28; 17:5, 6.

16. (a) How may pioneers sustain zeal and joy? (b) Illustrate how adjusting to problems may bring the Great Shepherd’s blessing.

¹⁶ For successful pioneering, it is important to maintain spirituality. Regular attendance at, and zealous participation in meetings, daily Bible reading and discussion of the text for the day from the Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, a schedule for diligent personal study​—these things can aid a pioneer to maintain his zeal and joy, and equip him to overcome unusual and unexpected problems. (Ps. 1:1-3) After ten years of most productive service as a pioneer, one sister writes:

Since my husband’s job in TV requires him to move to a different part of the country every two years, I have served in nine congregations, five of them since I started in the regular pioneer service. I quickly give up studies that do not progress, and try to strengthen those who really do recognize Jehovah. In each place, our wonderful God has shown his hand, as I have aided an average of five persons to the truth. The first meeting I attended in one city was in a small mat room with five other persons. When I left there two years later, sixty-two were attending this meeting. In the next city I was able to help eight persons to become praisers of Jehovah, and I saw the meetings increase from twenty-five to about one hundred in attendance. In the next city, we started off with just two regular pioneers, but I saw ten more become pioneers. After attending all sessions of the “Freedom of the Sons of God” District Assembly in 1966, I gave birth the next morning to my third child. But I was able to report 1,294 hours of service for that year. Instead of being ruled by the baby, I adjusted my life with the baby to an appropriate pace, and was able to continue in the pioneer work. The persons with whom I have studied, too, have adjusted their lives after baptism to enter the temporary, and then the regular pioneer service. They, like myself, have learned never to neglect daily Bible reading, study and prayer, so that more-than-ordinary joy and strength continue to be renewed. In all situations, Jehovah, our Great Shepherd, is very near.​—Isa. 40:11, 31.

17. How may elders help pioneers and others to be industrious in God’s service?

¹⁷ Elders in the congregation have a great privilege in encouraging the pioneer service. They can often give practical suggestions and help, so that pioneers can stay in that field of activity. Also, they can enthusiastically advocate the pioneer service to others.​—Compare Hebrews 6:11, 12.

IS PIONEERING PRACTICAL FOR YOU?

18, 19. (a) What questions may be appropriate at this point? (b) Is there reason for discouragement if one cannot be a pioneer?

¹⁸ Only you can answer that question. How have you viewed the pioneer service until now? As something for others? Have you held back because you preferred secular work over daily preaching of the good news? Or have your circumstances really required what you are doing? Has “token” service seemed adequate? What does your heart move you to do now? After considering all things, can you say YES to the question, Is the pioneer service practical for you? If so, great indeed will be your blessing.​—Mal. 3:10.

¹⁹ But how about the great number of our readers who are not in a position to enter the regular pioneer service? Should they be discouraged when they see others taking up this field of activity? Not at all! One and all of Jehovah’s people can and should be whole-souled in Jehovah’s service. At times they may be able to adjust their affairs to spend two weeks, or a month or more, in temporary pioneer service, and this also will bring a great blessing. Others can give themselves to preaching and teaching whole-souled as congregation publishers.

20. (a) Though service opportunities may be limited, what assurance do we always have? (b) Illustrate how Jehovah blesses whole-souled effort.

²⁰ “Jehovah knows those who belong to him,” and all of these he blesses, no matter how limited their actual field service may be. (2 Tim. 2:19; Prov. 10:22) He can even bless those who, due to sickness, old age, persecutions or other reasons, are not able to share in organized field service with other publishers. Jehovah knows their hearts.​—Compare 1 Samuel 16:7.

A high-school girl learned the truth and started in house-to-house service. But her father violently opposed her and forbade her taking part in any activity with Jehovah’s witnesses. What could she do? She witnessed to her classmates at school, and started many Bible studies in her own and other classes. The happy result? Three of those with whom she formerly studied are now very active in the truth​—one sister as a special pioneer, one brother as a regular pioneer and a ministerial servant, and another brother as a regular pioneer and an overseer. Now, many years later, this faithful sister has been able to break free from the opposition, and is herself sharing in the temporary pioneer service.

Jehovah blesses whole-souled service.

21, 22. (a) How does serving “whole-souled” vary among individuals? (b) Why should we pray, “Give us more faith”?

²¹ When Paul encouraged believers, ‘As Christ’s slaves, do the will of God whole-souled,’ he was not asking Christians to do the impossible. Your soul is YOU. It is according to what you are, your abilities and opportunities, that you may devote yourself to doing God’s will. Individuals will differ, and this is recognized in some of Jesus’ parables, where more is entrusted to some, and some, even though approved, are shown as bringing forth less fruitage.​—Eph. 6:6; Matt. 13:23; 25:19-23; Luke 19:15-19.

²² Let it be to you according to your opportunity and faith. By walking whole-souled now in the way that leads to eternal life, may you have the satisfaction and joy of sharing in this never-to-be-repeated work to the fullest extent​—all to Jehovah’s praise. As you consider how you may do this, may you have the same prayerful attitude as that of the apostles of our Lord, when they said to him: “Give us more faith.”​—Luke 17:5, 6.