Maintaining Happiness by Dispelling Complaint

“Happy are those hearing the word of God and keeping it!”—Luke 11:28, NW.

1. In what way is Jehovah happy, and how can man also acquire happiness?

JEHOVAH is the happy God. (1 Tim. 1:11, NW) His happiness comes from being completely devoted to righteousness and to bringing happiness to his creatures in his loving way. Unselfishly he has made full provision for men to live in happiness on earth and to that end he gives them what they require. To acquire genuine happiness man has only to heed the instruction God gives him and live his life according to it.

2. Is the present system of things in a happy state, and why so?

² Who can deny that the present system of things on earth is filled with unhappiness and sorrow? In it there is plenty to complain about. It has come about in fulfillment of Revelation 12:12 (NW): “Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.” The prophecy has proved true: “But know this, that in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here.” (2 Tim. 3:1, NW) Some politicians may boast that the people never had it so good; but to a great extent they are miserable and troubled by the threat of global catastrophe in a nuclear war, the alarming increase in crime and delinquency, the upswing of dread diseases in spite of latest scientific discoveries, and general insecurity. Their countenances reflect the spirit of discontent that pervades the whole system of things.

3. How is happiness now being spread, who respond and what is the result?

³ Jehovah, unselfish in his happiness, provides for people to hear the glorious good news. It is being preached throughout the inhabited earth for the purpose of a witness. (Matt. 24:14, NW) Some, described in Ezekiel 9:4 (AS) as “men that sigh and that cry over all the abominations that are done,” hear this message and come out of the afflicted old system of things. They begin to make their minds over and undergo a change of personality to God’s happy state. (Rom. 12:2; Eph. 4:24, 31, 32) Thus when a person comes to understand and appreciate the truth of God’s Word, his viewpoint on life completely changes. He becomes very joyful. He now has new associates, Jehovah’s witnesses, a society of happy people. They are spiritually prosperous and growing. Continually they learn more and more about the principles of New World living, which they strive to apply in their lives. They radiate optimism and enthusiasm. Certainly they have every reason to be happy!

4. Do the prospects ahead for those who hear the Word of God and keep it give reason to complain?

⁴ The provisions Jehovah has made for such ones to gain endless happiness in his new world indeed are a “happy hope.” (Titus 2:13, NW) The woeful conditions of these last days, attended by sickness, sorrow and death, which were brought upon humanity by its first parents, Adam and Eve, are no longer considered as any reason to complain. How happy they are that God has provided the way out! The prospects of everlasting happy life give them every reason to rejoice. Appreciation of God’s goodness causes gratitude to well up in their hearts. It brings realization that something is owing to God; it is worship of him. Heartfelt gratitude impels such ones to dedicate themselves to the service of Jehovah. They become ‘doers of the work’ and ‘happy in their doing it.’ Because they have heard the Word of God and are determined to keep it, their prospects of happiness stretch out endlessly.—Jas. 1:25, NW.

5. What pressure is brought to bear in the life of one newly dedicated to Jehovah, with what apparent change?

⁵ Unfortunately, not all who dedicate themselves to Jehovah continue to live and serve Jehovah in their assignments happily forever. For a time the pleasure of learning new truths about God’s Word and purposes and the added thrill of passing these good things to others claim all their interest. Sometimes, then, in the lives of these newly dedicated ones strange things seem to happen. Conditions appear to change. It is seen that a life of service to Jehovah as one of his witnesses is not a bed of roses. Hardships may befall one, or even severe persecution springs up to deprive one of his new-found joy. Even the daily service of Jehovah God becomes burdensome. Preaching day after day grows more rigorous and exacting. The people encountered in their homes in the missionary field are indifferent and apathetic toward the message of the Kingdom. And preaching brings with it many difficult problems. It involves considerable work with what seems to be endless details demanding careful attention. Or in the life of our new witness perhaps a domestic problem has arisen as the result of his new way of worship. It brings along with it a very severe strain on the family ties, which threatens dire consequences and even a breach in the family circle. Pressure is brought to bear on one’s devotion to Jehovah and his dedication vows so recently made.

6. When a new witness of Jehovah begins to disapprove and criticize congregation matters, what happens?

⁶ Then again, our new witness of Jehovah is filled with zeal. He is ambitious to get ahead in the service and be on with the work. When he looks around himself, perhaps in a small congregation, it appears that very little progress is being made. Obviously, he concludes, it is because things are just not being run right. He sees that there are some careless and indifferent ones associated with the congregation. Not much progress is being made with the preaching work. He feels that something must be done and that quickly; so he begins to disapprove and criticize. Shortly he realizes that he is not happy as at the start. His joy in serving God is fading away.

7. Why and how does the happiness experienced at first association with the New World society sometimes disappear?

⁷ Our new brother may fail to recognize it at first but he is undergoing a radical change of attitude. He finds himself disagreeing emphatically with arrangements made in the congregation for worship and service. He criticizes those who serve with him. Instead of serving Jehovah with joy and gladness he is now found to be demanding and complaining about arrangements. He wants things to be more convenient and easy. He resents the work, bother and inconvenience that the mistakes and carelessness of others bring upon him. He says to himself or even in the hearing of others: “If they would only do things the right way, it would be so much easier!” In the meanwhile the happiness experienced at first has totally disappeared. It is not always apparent just how and why it happened, but this is certain, he just does not feel pleased about it. His happiness and joy are gone. Back he has gone to the grumbling, murmuring way of the old world. He habitually disapproves of the arrangements Jehovah has made. He says to himself: “Jehovah and his organization owe me something better than this.” He doubts the wisdom of decisions and arrangements and wants to do things his own way. Not anxious to carry out Jehovah’s will expressed through his organization, he complains. He even stops preaching and is miserable. He feels depressed and walks about with a sour countenance. So quickly he has lost the joy of his association with Jehovah and his New World society.

8. For what fundamental reasons has the complainer brought unhappiness upon himself?

⁸ Who would deliberately choose to be unhappy? Then why complain, which always brings unhappiness? The complainer has brought it on himself; he has permitted selfishness to enter in. He wholly fails to understand why the tests come upon him. No longer does he have the right outlook on the burdens, hardships and persecution that have befallen him. He has forgotten what Peter wrote: “Beloved ones, do not be puzzled at the burning among you which is happening to you for a trial, as though a strange thing were befalling you. On the contrary, go on rejoicing forasmuch as you are sharers in the sufferings of the Christ, that you may rejoice and be overjoyed also during the revelation of his glory. If you are being reproached for the name of Christ, you are happy, because the spirit of glory, even the spirit of God, is resting upon you.” (1 Pet. 4:12-14, NW) Here is laid down the fundamental reason and necessity for Christians to keep integrity with the right mental outlook. Consequently a struggle to keep integrity must be expected.—Job 1:6-12.

9. (a) In view of what warning should the Christian not complain or rebel against burdens and hardships? (b) What kind of experiences can a Christian expect after he dedicates himself to Jehovah?

⁹ Jesus Christ warned too of what his followers must expect: “I have spoken these things to you that you may not be stumbled. Men will expel you from the congregation. In fact, the hour is coming when everyone that kills you will imagine he has rendered a sacred service to God. But they will do these things because they have not come to know either the Father or me. Nevertheless, I have spoken these things to you that, when the hour for them arrives, you may remember I told them to you.” (John 16:1-4, NW) Let none become so self-centered, unreasonable or forgetful about the reasons for keeping integrity to Jehovah as to complain or even go to the extreme of rebelling against burdens and hardships. Rather, pause to reason about the matter: when you dedicated yourself to a life of service to Jehovah did you expect a life of luxury, ease and idleness? One who wishes a vacation does not seek employment. Nor does one who enlists in any army expect a furlough. And Christians have volunteered for spiritual warfare.—2 Cor. 10:3, 4; Eph. 6:13.

10. Although a Christian’s life may be difficult, why is he not to be pitied, and, in view of all hardships and problems, is his happiness lost?

¹⁰ Jehovah’s witnesses need not pity their lot as sharers in the sufferings of Christ. Complainers are always unhappy. It is Jehovah’s promise that those who worship him will be happy, and he has not lied. What if we must endure hardships, overcome difficult problems, bear up under persecution? Does suffering hardship mean loss of happiness? Experience has demonstrated beyond argument the answer is an emphatic no! Have you attended one of the assemblies of Jehovah’s witnesses recently? They are held regularly, locally and on a national and international scale. This involves considerable inconvenience and often great expense. It may require a long, hazardous trip. Frequently the conventioners camp in an open field with very few conveniences. Then while attending the daily sessions there may be a trip of many miles in crowded buses or subways to sit for hours in a packed stadium. But who will say that attending a convention of Jehovah’s people is not one of the most unforgettable and joyful experiences of one’s life?

11. What is the right mental attitude for a follower of Christ, and does Jehovah approve such course?

¹¹ Bearing hardship and even persecution courageously and joyfully, knowing that such hardships will not rob him of his happiness, is the right mental attitude for a Christian. Thereby he keeps close in mind the all-important reasons for keeping integrity to Jehovah, not weakening or feeling sorry for himself and complaining because of the great privilege that is his. Let us not forget that Jehovah approves of our bearing up under persecution. His own Son set a most outstanding example. It is brought directly to our attention that it is in this regard he set a model for us. In the well-known scripture we are informed that we are to follow his steps closely. “For if someone because of conscience toward God bears up under afflictions and suffers unjustly, this is an agreeable thing. For what merit is there in it if, when you are sinning and being struck blows, you endure it? But if, when you are doing good and you suffer, you endure it, this is a thing agreeable with God. In fact, to this course you were called, because even Christ suffered for you, leaving you a model for you to follow his steps closely. He committed no sin, nor was deceit found in his mouth. When he was being reviled, he did not go to reviling in return. When he was suffering, he did not go to threatening, but kept on committing himself to the one who judges righteously.”—1 Pet. 2:19-23, NW.

12. What helps us to maintain happiness as we do Jehovah’s will?

¹² It is not a good thing for Christians to take a narrow, shortsighted viewpoint about the trials that come upon them. In fact, such hardships bring along with them some of the greatest joys. It is very important to keep the right slant on tests and troubles that come along, either in the present or in the future. It is the work of preaching that pleases Jehovah and makes him glad. “My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.” (Prov. 27:11) We can maintain our happiness only by uncomplaining obedience to his will and enduring faithfully in his service.

13. When we consider the reasons for dedicating ourselves, do we have things so trialsome in our day?

¹³ When we stop to consider the matter, we do not really have things so difficult and trialsome in our day. Especially is this true when we consider the necessity of maintaining integrity and the reasons for dedicating ourselves to Jehovah. Who is even as ill-treated as Paul, who was subjected “to hunger and also to thirst and to be naked and to be knocked about and to be homeless”? This zealous apostle of Jesus uncomplainingly endured all such trials and went on to say: “When being reviled, we bless; when being persecuted, we bear up; when being defamed, we entreat; we have become as the refuse of the world, the offscouring of all things, and we are so now.”—1 Cor. 4:11-13, NW.

14. Despite all his burdens and misfortune, in what mood did Paul conclude his second letter to the Corinthians?

¹⁴ True, the life of a modern Christian is not always an easy one. Nor was it in Paul’s time: “Are they ministers of Christ? . . . I am more outstandingly one: in labors more plentifully, in prisons more plentifully, in stripes to an excess, in near-deaths often. By Jews I five times received forty strokes less one, three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I experienced shipwreck, a night and a day I have spent in the deep; in travels often, in dangers from rivers, in dangers from highwaymen, in dangers from my own race, in dangers from the nations, in dangers in the city, in dangers in the wilderness, in dangers at sea, in dangers among false brothers, in labor and toil, in sleepless nights often, in hunger and thirst, in abstinence from food many times, in cold and nakedness. Besides those things of an external kind, there is what rushes in on me from day to day, the anxiety for all the congregations.” (2 Cor. 11:23-28, NW) Paul was not overcome despite all of his burdens and misfortune. In the conclusion of his letter he writes in a happy mood: “Finally, brothers, continue to rejoice, to be restored, to be comforted, to have unity of mind, to live peaceably, and the God of love and of peace will be with you.”—2 Cor. 13:11.

15, 16. (a) Is it putting things too strongly to say that complainers lose happiness and even life itself? (b) To whom and when does the warning example of the complaining Israelites have application?

¹⁵ There are some serious aspects to this subject of complaining that witnesses of Jehovah should not overlook. It is this: Complaining by one in Jehovah’s organization simply means that one is expressing displeasure and annoyance against the will of God. Actually then, complaining is against Jehovah. There are some very pointed Scriptural examples demonstrating that invariably complainers lose happiness. Often they have suffered the loss of life itself. So we can see how serious it is if we complain against Jehovah, or against his organization and its instructions, when this brings sorrow and misery with ultimate death. Do you think otherwise and that that is putting it too strongly? Or that the warning is exaggerated? Then it would be well to give attention to another scripture. It has to do with those things that the ancient people of Israel experienced that pictured events now in our time. Perhaps you have referred to this scripture many, many times. Did you realize a that it lies in this context of dispelling the spirit of complaint? “Neither be murmurers, just as some of them murmured, only to perish by the destroyer. Now these things went on befalling them as examples and they were written for a warning to us upon whom the accomplished ends of the systems of things have arrived.” (1 Cor. 10:10, 11, NW) Just what did they have to murmur about? Had not Jehovah delivered them from oppression in Egypt, protected them and fed them in a loving way so that they were never hungry, cold or naked? They had no worries at all. But even after all this they complained just like spoiled crybabies. Never forget that the example of the Israelites applies to complainers now, today.

¹⁶ You would think anyone would be content with such a life and such secure prospects stretching ahead as those confronting the Israelites poised at the entrance to the Promised Land. No, not they! They despised Jehovah’s gifts. They had continually murmured and worked themselves into a very unhappy state of mind. We can easily grasp how foolish it was for the Israelites to lose sight of what Jehovah had done for them, but do we apply the lesson to our circumstances today, as we should, to understand what it is about complaining that is so serious?

17. For the sake of happiness, why is it now foolish to complain about God’s provisions and arrangement of things?

¹⁷ For the sake of happiness, then, we should not demand more and better from Jehovah, as did the Israelites who turned up their noses at his provisions for them. They foolishly cried that it was not good enough and not quick enough to suit them. And now they were not going to get the inheritance to which Jehovah had been leading them. They were simply going to die in the wilderness. Neither are those that complain now against God’s way of handling things going to inherit the blessings of the new world, although it is so near, and they will lose their present happiness as well. Jehovah will not have a new world filled with murmurers, just as in the prophetic picture an entire generation was barred from ever entering the Promised Land because of the murmuring.—Numbers 13, 14.

18. As we contemplate the future, what course would be folly, and, in this connection, whose experiences are recalled?

¹⁸ Contemplation of the blessings of the new world is thrilling, beyond description. It will certainly prove to be a ‘land flowing with milk and honey,’ as symbolically described in ancient times. (Num. 13:27) Who with such a brilliant future ahead would consider turning back to this world? Again recall the experience of the Israelites who en masse cried out because, on the brink of the Promised Land, hardships and difficulties confronted them. “Then all the assembly raised their voice, and the people continued giving vent to their voice and weeping all through that night. And all the sons of Israel began to murmur against Moses and Aaron, and all the assembly began to say against them: ‘If only we had died in the land of Egypt, or if only we had died in this wilderness! And why is Jehovah bringing us to this land to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become as spoil. Is it not better for us to return to Egypt?’ They even went to saying to one another: ‘Let us appoint a head and let us return to Egypt!’”—Num. 14:1-4, NW.

19. Why, of all people, should Jehovah’s witnesses be found uncomplaining and happy?

¹⁹ Complaining leads to a wretched existence, as in the case of the Israelites. Keep in mind that Jehovah has also delivered his witnesses of today from the oppression of a wicked world. They do not fear its fears, share its anxieties or labor under its burdens. Let us remember that we too are being protected and fed wonderfully in a spiritual way and that a glorious new world is our goal. If we feel the urge to complain about things, let us examine our motives and not leave Jehovah out of the transaction, as did the crying Israelites. There is abundant proof that Jehovah knows where he is leading us and just how to run his organization. Those who stick to it and keep its instructions faithfully are going to be a very happy and contented people. With this viewpoint we can keep in mind the wonderful things God has accomplished on behalf of his people in times past. We shall not forget what he is doing for us today and the bright future prospects that are ours. Keeping these happifying thoughts in mind, we are determined to maintain our integrity faithfully and, in view of all that has happened in the past, we conclude that, of all people, Jehovah’s witnesses have no cause to complain. Rather, they will keep uncomplaining and be happy, reflecting a “happy God,” as did Christ Jesus.

Pursue the Things That Are Upbuilding

1. Although everyone wants happiness, why do Christians, above all others, have reasons to look at the bright side of things?

SINCE Jehovah has created man in his image, everyone wants to be happy. Christians have ever so much more to be happy for than mankind in general. There is every reason for them always to look at the bright side of things. They alone have the real source of good news that brings genuine joy. (Matt. 5:3; 24:14, NW) Worshiping God and serving him in faithfulness ensure happiness now and everlastingly. (John 13:17; Matt. 7:24) For a multitude of people of good will toward God it will result in everlasting life on earth with endless blessings. “Thou openest thy hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. Jehovah is righteous in all his ways, and gracious in all his works.”—Ps. 145:16, 17, AS.

2. How can we respond to Jehovah’s goodness?

² We can all be very glad for Jehovah’s goodness. Moreover, in gratitude we can observe the words of Jesus: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” (Acts 20:35, NW) Jehovah is calling together in his worship people who are happy individuals, a people who are friendly and anxious to have others join with them in their happiness. Their conversation is edifying; they recommend and teach to others the kingdom of God, which will leave nothing wanting.

3. With what attitude should Jehovah’s witnesses comfort those spiritually robbed, stripped and beaten?

³ With this hope and service one can maintain happiness even while living in a world of discontented persons afflicted with grief, sorrow and woe. It means comfort and joy to individuals who want to be comforted. Many of such people of the world are of the class pictured by Jesus in his illustration about the Samaritan who was a good neighbor. Like the unfortunate “certain man” they have been spiritually robbed, stripped and beaten. The viewpoint of the Christian must be one of compassion toward those persons of the world to whom they preach, even though they are weighted down with false religion, poverty and other personal problems. The Christian must not feel that he is burdened by having to go to such ones and preach to them, as if the weight of the world were placed upon his shoulders. They are not “just so many beggars” to be given a handout grudgingly with a long face. So Jehovah’s witnesses uncomplainingly prove themselves good neighbors by acting mercifully to all, administering to their spiritual wounds with a gladdening message.—Luke 10:33-37.

4. (a) What ancient prophecy did Jesus carry out? (b) If one gives abundantly and cheerfully, what is his reward?

⁴ In praising Jehovah we seek to copy the mental attitude of his Son. He well carried out the ancient prophecy: “The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah is upon me; because Jehovah hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, . . . to comfort all that mourn; to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” (Isa. 61:1-3, AS) Just as he did, we can reap the reward in great measure from bountiful praise of Jehovah. “He that sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he that sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”—2 Cor. 9:6, 7, NW.

5. What was the mental disposition of Christ Jesus as he preached, and what did he avoid?

⁵ With great profit to ourselves we can copy the mental disposition of Christ Jesus. Viewed from the selfish standpoint, did he not have plenty of reason to utter a grievance? It was quite a sacrifice that he made. Here he was, sent down to earth alone, just one man to begin a vast, world-wide work of witnessing. In the way of hardships, opposition and persecution, he had all that we could experience and far more. The people to whom he preached were indifferent and poverty-stricken for the most part. They were entangled in the practice of false religion. But he did not bewail his plight or groan and deplore his assignment to preach to such people. He came in the willing, uncomplaining way approved by his Father and invited: “Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and become my disciples, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for your souls. For my yoke is kindly and my load is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30, NW) His message was refreshing and comforting. Indeed he was a proper reflection of “the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort.”—2 Cor. 1:3, NW.

6, 7. To be good neighbors, how do Christians conduct themselves toward their brothers?

⁶ What a praiseworthy attitude to commend to all! It is certain to have Jehovah’s blessing. Says Psalm 41:1, 2 (AT): “How happy is he who is considerate of the weak; on the day of trouble the LORD delivers him. The LORD protects him and keeps him alive; he is called happy in the land.” True happiness lies in seeking ways to be loving and helpful to our neighbors, not complaining about their misfortunes or weaknesses but strengthening them with the truth, which comforts and builds up.

⁷ Christ Jesus, in giving to us the second of the two great commandments, rules out a hypercritical, complaining attitude by Christians toward their neighbors: “You must love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31, NW) If we are honest with ourselves we admit our own mistakes and shortcomings. Do we mock and ridicule ourselves when we err? Because we love ourselves we honestly seek to correct ourselves and make straight paths for our feet. This gives peace of mind and happiness. In serving alongside our close neighbors, our brothers, we observe the same principle. We shall be happy if we seek ways to be loving and helpful to them.

8. Mistakes in the congregation call for blame and criticism by whom, and who provides correction?

⁸ Do you become offended and complain to others when you think the servants in your congregation make mistakes? Even in such circumstances this is no justification to blame or publicly criticize. “You must not call down evil upon God nor curse a chieftain among your people.” (Ex. 22:28, NW) Peter disowned Christ three times. (Matt. 26:69-74) On another occasion he was “not walking straight according to the truth of the good news.” (Gal. 2:11-14, NW) However, it is Jehovah who provides correction within his organization. Correction comes not from complaint and gossip but by Jehovah through his organization in his time and way.—1 Pet. 1:17.

9. To dwell in happiness and see our congregations prosper, what course should we pursue?

⁹ It would be a very fine thing if all would remember this principle: building up our brothers in the faith is the way to maintain happiness. “So, then, let us pursue the things making for peace and the things that are upbuilding to one another. Stop tearing down the work of God.” (Rom. 14:19, 20, NW) It is far better and results in good to pursue this course. All of us want to get along in peace and joy with our brothers, and we want to see our congregations prosper. “I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, entreat you to walk worthily of the calling with which you were called, with complete lowliness of mind and mildness, with long-suffering, putting up with one another in love, earnestly endeavoring to observe the oneness of the spirit in the uniting bond of peace. Let all malicious bitterness and anger and wrath and screaming and abusive speech be taken away from you along with all injuriousness. But become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you.”—Eph. 4:1-3, 31, 32, NW.

10. In what ways can we demonstrate love for our brothers, for their upbuilding and our happiness?

¹⁰ “Love builds up.” (1 Cor. 8:1, NW) This is the key to all our dealings with our brothers for their upbuilding and for our happiness. There are so many little ways in which we have the opportunity to edify one another. We must shun the worldly attitude, which is gruff, rough and critical. All of us have some gifts that we have cultivated for the improvement of our ministry. (1 Pet. 4:10; Rom. 12:6) We can use these to demonstrate our love for our brothers. “So also you yourselves, since you are zealous followers of gifts of the spirit, seek to abound in them for the upbuilding of the congregation.” (1 Cor. 14:12, NW) Perhaps we can help our brothers to prepare and assist them to make comments in the weekly study of The Watchtower and in other congregation meetings. We have the opportunity also to aid our young brothers or those with language difficulties to prepare student assignments in the theocratic ministry school. All need three- to eight-minute sermons for presentation in the homes. Would it not be a loving expression toward our brothers to give them this assistance, which would be certain to make them happy?

11. Why should we exercise love to push aside disagreements?

¹¹ It is very practical to push aside disagreements and disputes with our brothers by exercising Christian love for them. Now we have every incentive toward that end. “But the complete end of all things has drawn close. Be sound in mind, therefore, and be vigilant with a view to prayers. Above all things, have intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.”—1 Pet. 4:7-9, NW.

12. (a) To what lesson by God should we apply ourselves? (b) What is the right way to correct difficulties and solve problems in the congregation?

¹² Our loving Creator knows what man requires to achieve and maintain happiness. It pleases him to teach us how to gain happiness in the very way in which he does, by expressing love to our fellow man. We want to apply ourselves diligently to this lesson and learn it very well. “However, with reference to brotherly love, you do not need us to be writing you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; and, in fact, you are doing it to all the brothers . . . But we exhort you, brothers, to go on doing it in fuller measure, and to make it your aim to live quietly and to mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we ordered you.” (1 Thess. 4:9-11, NW) Our brothers in the congregation will truly appreciate our working with them, if we edify them by the example that we set, if we lovingly build them up, not probing and tearing down, but in the helpful way working regularly with them and commending their progress in praising Jehovah. If there is some difficulty or problem in the congregation, we will not be quick to accuse our brothers or condemn them and bring them into public censure. We will not take the attitude that something has gone wrong here and someone must take the blame. Rather than browbeat with a scathing rebuke we can correct by a loving example, demonstrating the spirit of mercy which Jehovah has so abundantly extended to all.

13. What spirit prevails within the congregations of Jehovah’s witnesses, and why is it so important for those who have the oversight to set the right example?

¹³ When we look around in the congregations of Jehovah’s witnesses today, we see that for the most part a wonderful spirit prevails. Especially where the brothers are loving and kind to one another, where they do not complain and ridicule and deride, Jehovah has given them many blessings. People of good will who come into the Christian congregation readily learn to practice the noncomplaining attitude. “Finally, my brothers, continue rejoicing in the Lord. . . . Let us, then, as many of us as are mature, be of this mental attitude; and if you are mentally inclined otherwise in any respect, God will reveal the above attitude to you. Unitedly become imitators of me, brothers, and keep your eye on those who are walking in a way that accords with the example you have in us.” (Phil. 3:1, 15, 17, NW) Since the brothers will follow the right example, it is so important for those who are mature and who have the responsibility of oversight to set the right example of building up their brothers without murmuring.

14. Why will Jehovah not permit any to bring into his organization the habit of murmuring and complaining?

¹⁴ Just as in Jesus’ time, there are work and problems, difficulties and hardships that are common to all who strive to follow in the course of Christian service. Perhaps there are things we might complain about; however, we must resist this temptation with all our strength for, if we do not, it will ultimately take away from us the only thing worthwhile in life, happiness in serving God. Jehovah wants us to be different from the world from which he is separating his people. He is taking them apart and teaching them to live as a New World society. With that separation comes freedom and deliverance from the spirit of complaint and faultfinding. His organization is made up of busy, happy people who strive more and more to live according to the standards of his new world. He will not permit any to carry into it old worldly habits of murmuring and complaining. If one complains he soon gets others started. And have you observed that those who complain are usually not preaching, or at least very little?

15. What further admonition is given, and what satisfaction will result from following it?

¹⁵ Instead of complaining we willingly accept responsibilities Jehovah places upon us. Putting our trust in him we strive for contentment, living and serving as he intends for us. “Keep doing all things free from murmurings and arguments, that you may come to be blameless and innocent, children of God without a blemish in among a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you are shining as illuminators in the world, keeping a tight grip on the word of life, that I may have cause for exultation in Christ’s day, that I did not run in vain or work hard in vain. Notwithstanding, even if I am being poured out like a drink offering upon the sacrifice and public service to which faith has led you, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. Now in the same way you yourselves also be glad and rejoice with me.” (Phil. 2:14-18, NW) In this way we have complete satisfaction, knowing that Jehovah’s will is being done.

16. What is lacking in some congregations where faultfinders and gossipers are present, and what is the further danger?

¹⁶ Is your congregation one of such blessed associations of brothers with the full joy of Jehovah? Sometimes the brothers in democratic lands miss out on this. When we visit their congregations it appears to be lacking to a large extent. In spite of the more fortunate circumstances with material advantages and greater freedom to preach, something seems to be missing. It is apparent that faultfinders and gossipers are present; those people who irritate and disturb are prominent. We are certain to find in these circumstances that the brothers are largely robbed of their joy of serving Jehovah. For the most part, too, little progress to maturity is being made by the publishers and the congregation is not growing. Such murmuring and grumbling displease Jehovah. It is a joy-killer for all because it takes the joy out of living now as a daily praiser of Jehovah and, if persisted in, it will take away life itself.

17. Where persecution is great, as in totalitarian lands, how does it go with our brothers?

¹⁷ Have you not often observed that where persecution is great, a real spirit of love, harmony and happiness abounds? There may be frightful obstacles to meeting together and preaching regularly, but the brothers overcome them and they are happy at it. Truly they appreciate that they have been delivered from oppression and freed from a wicked old world. In spite of persecution Jehovah protects them and sees to it that they are fed spiritually. So these brothers do not pity themselves. Because of faithfulness in keeping integrity they may receive long prison terms, but they consider it no reason to despair or to murmur. On the contrary they all the more recognize the blessings and favors that they have received, considering it all undeserved, and maintain unshakable faith. They are not always running to let someone know what a hard time they have or pouring out their troubles and complaining. These brothers are not discouraged in the least by these hardships. The work is not stopped or even hindered, notwithstanding the difficult problems and persecution. The good news is being preached. The people of good will are hearing it and they are coming in and associating themselves with Jehovah’s New World society even in the totalitarian countries.

18. In the experiences of Jehovah’s witnesses in such circumstances, what lesson is there, and with what profit to others?

¹⁸ Jehovah has poured out his spirit richly upon such uncomplaining witnesses; they have prospered and the results have been marvelous. What a lesson this should be to some in lands where there is a greater measure of freedom—this wonderful spirit of love and unity exhibited by our brothers in less fortunate circumstances! Theirs is a real desire, not only to keep happy themselves in their worship of Jehovah, but actually to spread their joy and happiness to others. In their preaching they copy Jesus Christ, having a refreshing message that brings true comfort. It brings great joy to all to hear of their experiences and integrity keeping.—1 Thess. 3:4-10.

19. To dispel the spirit of complaint and maintain a spirit of humility, what must be remembered?

¹⁹ There is no reason why Jehovah’s servants today should be sad and complain. His loving provisions, his interest in them and his continual care should be sufficient to keep them happy. It should help them to dispel the spirit of complaint and maintain a spirit of humility and meekness with complete devotion to Jehovah’s organization. “Humble yourself, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time, while you cast all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you.” (1 Pet. 5:6, 7, NW) In turn we should have the same concern for him, not becoming self-centered or selfish so that we take things for granted or feel that Jehovah and his organization owe us something. Avoid the presumptuous thinking that, unless things are done in the way you think best, you are not going to stay with the New World society. Jehovah owes no one a thing. “By this undeserved kindness, indeed, you have been saved through faith; and this not owing to you, it is God’s gift.” (Eph. 2:8, NW) Each of us has been given something of great value. It is the truth that leads to life and our daily service of praise. To Jehovah all are indebted for all we have and for all we hope to gain. Let us not be ingrates, having contempt for his gifts as if we puny people expected more or could do better for ourselves. Above all, let us avoid complaining, because we know that if we complain we shall stop our preaching and then we are certain to become miserable.

20. What is needed for the Christian to maintain happiness and prosper?

²⁰ Thinking straight about these matters, we conclude that the way to maintain happiness is to avoid complaining, to edify our brothers and to build up the congregation. To prevail through all our troubles we have only to accept Jehovah’s instructions, carry them out in a joyful frame of mind and dispel the attitude of grumbling about what we are to do. Jehovah gives us the instructions we need to prosper and be content. For our welfare everlastingly we must give willing obedience, continually respect instructions and walk in step with such.

21. When we view things rightly, how fortunate are we who have dedicated ourselves to Jehovah?

²¹ Viewed rightly, the worship and service of Jehovah, even though accompanied by trials, burdens and persecution, is a most happy experience. When we look about us at the world today, we who have dedicated ourselves to Jehovah can appreciate by comparison how fortunate we are. Certainly we have no reason to complain about our lot. “So, then, also let those who are suffering in harmony with the will of God keep on commending their souls to a faithful Creator while they are doing good.” (1 Pet. 4:19, NW) It is his purpose to deliver his happy praisers alive into his righteous new world when he executes judgment against all who ‘disregard lordship’ by speaking abusively against Jehovah and his arrangement for the new world.—Jude 8, 9, 14-16, NW.

22. In spite of the pressure against Jehovah’s organization, why do we rejoice and take courage?

²² The ‘Devil’s world’ is filled with grief and sorrow and is in a miserable state, but there is no reason why Jehovah’s witnesses should be unhappy. Despite all the pressure that has been brought against Jehovah’s organization by those who oppose the good news, we marvel at its prosperity and growth. We will stand firm and continue in the preaching work, taking courage from the assurance Jehovah has given us. “Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you meet with various trials, knowing as you do that this tested quality of your faith works out endurance. Happy is the man that keeps on enduring trial, because on becoming approved he will receive the crown of life, which Jehovah promised to those who continue loving him.”—Jas. 1:2, 3, 12, NW.

A 76-Year Search

An assembly of Jehovah’s witnesses in Nottingham, England, was attended by an 87-year-old brother from Wales who recounted how 76 years ago he had begun his search for the truth. For more than twenty years he tried different religions, but without satisfaction. For the next fifty years he made no further search but continued to pray for help. Four years ago, at the age of 83, he received a copy of The Watchtower, and a few months later he attended an assembly in Cardiff. Soon he was baptized and today he continues active, devoting more than twice the national average of hours each month to the field service.