BE “SOUND IN MIND”

13. Explain what is involved in being “sound in mind.”

¹³ Being “sound in mind” involves what? (1 Pet. 4:7) A Christian who is sound in mind does his best to make good decisions that reflect Jehovah’s thinking. Such a Christian knows that nothing in life is more important than his relationship with Jehovah. He has a balanced view of himself, knowing that he does not have all the answers. And he demonstrates his reliance on God by approaching Jehovah often in humble prayer.b

14. How did Peter on one occasion fail to rely on Jehovah?

¹⁴ On the last night before his death, Jesus warned his disciples: “All of you will be stumbled in connection with me on this night.” Peter responded confidently: “Although all the others are stumbled in connection with you, I will never be stumbled!” That night Jesus admonished some of his disciples: “Keep on the watch and pray continually.” (Matt. 26:31, 33, 41) If Peter had followed that advice earlier, he might have had the courage to acknowledge his relationship with Jesus. Instead, Peter, much to his regret, disowned his Master.​—Matt. 26:69-75.

15. How did Jesus keep a sound mind during his final night of life as a human?

¹⁵ Jesus relied fully on Jehovah. Although Jesus was perfect, he prayed repeatedly. That gave him the courage to act in line with Jehovah’s will for him. (Matt. 26:39, 42, 44; John 18:4, 5) Observing Jesus’ prayerful approach must have made a lifelong impression on Peter.

16. How did Peter show that he had cultivated soundness of mind? (1 Peter 4:7)

¹⁶ In time, Peter came to rely more on Jehovah in prayer. The resurrected Jesus assured Peter and the other apostles that they would receive holy spirit so that they could fulfill their commission to preach. However, Jesus asked them to wait in Jerusalem until that happened. (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4, 5) What did Peter do while waiting? Peter and his fellow Christians “were persisting in prayer.” (Acts 1:13, 14) Later, in his first letter, Peter encouraged his fellow Christians to be sound in mind and to rely on Jehovah in prayer. (Read 1 Peter 4:7.) Peter learned to rely on Jehovah and became a pillar in the congregation.​—Gal. 2:9.

17. Regardless of any natural abilities we may have, what do we need to keep doing? (See also picture.)

¹⁷ To be sound in mind, we must approach Jehovah often in prayer. We realize that we need to keep praying to Jehovah regardless of any natural abilities we may have. Therefore, especially when we are faced with important decisions, we pray to Jehovah for guidance, trusting that he knows what is best for us.