was insolvent because of misfortune, such as sickness or accident. In that way they would get their payment. But if they hound one mercilessly and try to render the debtor penniless by resorting to the law, then he might have to turn to the law himself. In order to protect himself, he might declare that he was bankrupt, his actual condition. They might force him to handle the matter in the only way they seem to recognize, the bankruptcy laws.

It would, though, be improper for a Christian to resort unnecessarily to bankruptcy as an easy way out of an unpleasant situation, whether caused by his own lack of foresight or by some bad turn of events. That would not be the morally honest course for Christians who say: “We trust we have an honest conscience, as we wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things.” (Heb. 13:18) The Christian should treat his creditors just as he would want to be treated if someone owed him money. (Matt. 7:12) If one has a debt, he ought to try hard to pay it. Remember, God approves the one “who, though it be to his loss, changes not his pledged word.”—Ps. 15:4, Confraternity.

In fact, some, even after being legally freed of certain debts, have conscientiously felt a moral urging to try to pay off the canceled debts if the former creditors would accept payment. In this, as in many matters, Christian conscience enters the picture. Each one can decide what he personally will do, striving always to maintain a good conscience.—1 Tim. 1:5.

All of this should emphasize the importance of thinking through a business matter thoroughly before making an agreement, and of living within one’s means. An inspired proverb says: “The plans of the diligent one surely make for advantage, but everyone that is hasty surely heads for want.” (Prov. 21:5) Jesus even spoke of the wisdom of the man intending to build a tower who sits down first to figure out the expense so as to be sure that he will have enough money to complete the business venture. (Luke 14:28-30) Each one must decide personally what debts, if any, he will incur. But how many material things does one need to provide the necessities of life and to find satisfaction in living? Would it be showing the “wisdom from above” to get into a dangerous financial situation out of a desire for material luxuries? (Jas. 3:17; Luke 12:15-21) How much better to believe and act in accord with Paul’s words: “Having sustenance and covering, we shall be content with these things”!—1 Tim. 6:8.

Announcements

DO YOU LOVE LIFE?

It is such a natural feeling for normal people to want to live. But if we hope to obtain the everlasting life promised in the Bible we must learn to live now. Jesus said: “He that hears my word and believes him that sent me has everlasting life.” (John 5:24) Obtain the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God. Study it with your Bible, and your knowledge of life and your love of living will be enriched. But, most of all, you will learn how God’s promise of everlasting life is to be realized. Send for your copy today. It is only 50c.

FIELD MINISTRY

Festivals are happy occasions. To the faithful Jews of ancient Israel, the annual festivals were reminders of their blessed lot as God’s people, carrying on worship in purity and truth. Today true Christians celebrate those festivals in an antitypical way. They celebrate the festival of unleavened cakes, for instance, by keeping pure, by avoiding the leaven of unrighteousness and by holding to the truth of God’s Word. (1 Cor. 5:8) To help others hold to the truth that means everlasting life, Jehovah’s witnesses freely teach them the Bible. As a further aid to interested persons, during April they will be offering a year’s subscription for this fine Bible-study aid The Watchtower, with three booklets, for just $1. Take advantage of the opportunity to obtain it.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES FOR THE WEEKS

April 28: God’s Word Keeps Your Faith Alive. Page 201. Songs to Be Used: 91, 78.

May 5: Keep Your Faith Growing Exceedingly. Page 208. Songs to Be Used: 35, 33.