things, desire for things of this world that are unnecessary. “Stop being anxious about your souls as to what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your bodies as to what you will wear.” (Matt. 6:25-33; 1 Tim. 6:1-10) This is very sound advice from one who had many burdens to bear. And very important: “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6, 7) This is vital counsel for every overseer who wishes to succeed in his assignment, and he must learn it well.

22, 23. (a) How does one make himself available for the responsibilities of an overseer? (b) What Scriptural principles will help him succeed?

²² How does one make himself available for the responsibilities of being an overseer? Not by pushing himself forward, flattering an overseer or telling of one’s own superior qualities for the assignment. Nor is it by trying to build up a sentiment for support among others in the congregation by criticizing the present servants after the manner of Absalom. (2 Sam. 15:2-6) No, it is, rather, by first properly performing all the primary obligations of Christians mentioned in the previous article. By making advancement in developing the fruits of the spirit. Then demonstrating zeal, diligence and regularity in supporting all congregation meetings and service activity. Taking part in the training program, showing willingness to help others, and all such things. These are observable to others. It was in this way that Timothy made himself available for additional responsibilities. “He was well reported on by the brothers.” (Acts 16:2; 1 Tim. 4:12-16) It is also vital to be faithful in the performance of every obligation, no matter how small or insignificant it may appear. “The person faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.”—Luke 16:10.

²³ So all you who can, reach out for the additional obligations, the fine work of being an overseer. And you who are overseers, assume your additional obligations. “Shepherd the flock of God in your care, not under compulsion, but willingly; neither for love of dishonest gain, but eagerly; neither as lording it over those who are God’s inheritance, but becoming examples to the flock.”—1 Pet. 5:2, 3.

Do You Read Your Yearbook?

For many years the Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses has been published only in the English language, but it is now available in German and Spanish. One Witness in Florida writes, in appreciation for the Spanish Yearbook: “I have felt something special in having the privilege of reading it in my own language. As I read in Spanish the experiences of far-off countries, I have felt a sensation of unity with the brothers in those places. I consider the Yearbook to be one of the most marvelous provisions that God’s organization has provided. I have spoken with several brothers and they have all expressed to me the same thing; namely, the happiness, edification and knowledge that they have received in what they have read up to now. The Yearbook in Spanish is for all the Spanish-speaking brothers throughout the world one of the most effective ways that Jehovah has used to keep us up-to-date with the progress of his visible organization.” Are you reading your Yearbook?