John enjoyed outstanding privileges, yet he likely expected his life in Jehovah’s service to work out differently from what it did. He may not have imagined that he would spend more time in jail than he did in his ministry. Still, John continued to be joyful, and he maintained that attitude for the rest of his life.

John may have known that his ministry would be limited, but he may not have realized how abruptly it would end. (John 3:30) In 30 C.E., some six months after baptizing Jesus, John was imprisoned by King Herod. Still, John did what he could to continue giving a witness. (Mark 6:17-20)