• Accept Gratefully—Give Wholeheartedly
    The Watchtower—2009 | July 15

    • Contribute to the Well-Being of the Congregation

      You will no doubt agree that you have benefited from the Christian congregation in many ways. Through the congregation, Jehovah has provided an abundance of spiritual food. You received the truth that set you free from religious error and spiritual darkness. (John 8:32) At congregation meetings, assemblies, and conventions arranged by “the faithful and discreet slave,” you obtained knowledge that will lead to everlasting life on a paradise earth without pain and suffering. (Matt. 24:45-47) Can you even begin to count all the benefits you have received​—and will yet receive—​through God’s congregation? What might you give the congregation in return?

      The apostle Paul wrote: “All the body, by being harmoniously joined together and being made to cooperate through every joint that gives what is needed, according to the functioning of each respective member in due measure, makes for the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.” (Eph. 4:15, 16) While that scripture applies primarily to the body of anointed Christians, the principle it contains can apply to all Christians today. Yes, each member of the congregation can contribute to the well-being and growth of the congregation. In what ways?

      We can do this by striving to be, at all times, a source of encouragement and spiritual refreshment to others. (Rom. 14:19) We can also contribute to “the growth of the body” by cultivating the fruitage of God’s spirit in all our dealings with fellow believers. (Gal. 5:22, 23) Further, we can look for opportunities to “work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith.” (Gal. 6:10; Heb. 13:16) Everyone in the congregation​—brothers and sisters, young and old—​can share in ‘building up the body in love.’

      In addition, we can use our talents, energies, and resources to share in the life-saving work that the congregation carries out. “You received free,” said Jesus Christ. How should we respond? “Give free,” he said. (Matt. 10:8) Therefore, share fully in the vital work of Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) Is your ability to do this limited? Remember the needy widow described by Jesus. What she gave was very limited. Yet, Jesus said that she did more than all the others. She gave all that her circumstances allowed her to give.​—2 Cor. 8:1-5, 12.