Traveling Overseers—Gifts in Men

“When he ascended on high he carried away captives; he gave gifts in men.”—EPHESIANS 4:8.

1. What new work was announced in this journal in 1894?

OVER a century ago, the Watch Tower announced something new. It was described as “Another Branch of the Work.” What did this new activity entail? It was the modern-day inauguration of the work of traveling overseers. The September 1, 1894, issue of this journal explained that henceforth qualified brothers would be visiting groups of Bible Students ‘for the purpose of building them up in the truth.’

2. Circuit and district overseers have what duties?

² In the first century C.E., Christian congregations were visited by such overseers as Paul and Barnabas. These faithful men had the objective of ‘building up’ the congregations. (2 Corinthians 10:8) Today, we are blessed with thousands of men who are doing this in a systematic way. The Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses has appointed them as circuit and district overseers. A circuit overseer serves about 20 congregations for a week each about twice a year, examining records, giving talks, and engaging in the field ministry with local Kingdom publishers. The district overseer is chairman for each of the annual circuit assemblies for a number of circuits, engages in the field ministry with the host congregations, and provides encouragement in Bible-based talks.

Their Self-Sacrificing Spirit

3. Why do traveling overseers need to have a self-sacrificing spirit?

³ Traveling overseers are constantly on the move. This in itself requires a self-sacrificing spirit. Traveling from one congregation to another can often be difficult, but these men and their wives do so with a joyful attitude. One circuit overseer said: “My wife is most supportive and uncomplaining . . . She deserves a lot of credit for her self-sacrificing spirit.” Some circuit overseers travel over 600 miles [1,000 km] between congregations. Many drive automobiles, but others get from one place to another by public transportation, by bicycle, on horseback, or on foot. One African circuit overseer even has to wade through a river with his wife on his shoulders in order to reach one congregation. On his missionary trips, the apostle Paul had to cope with heat and cold, hunger and thirst, sleepless nights, various dangers, and violent persecution. He also had “anxiety for all the congregations”—an experience common to traveling overseers today.—2 Corinthians 11:23-29.

4. What effect can health problems have on the lives of traveling overseers and their wives?

⁴ Like Paul’s companion Timothy, traveling overseers and their wives sometimes have health problems. (1 Timothy 5:23) This places extra stress on them. One circuit overseer’s wife explains: “Always being with the brothers is a strain when I am not feeling well. With the onset of menopause, I have found this especially difficult. Just having to pack all our belongings every week and move somewhere else is a real challenge. Often, I have to stop and pray to Jehovah to give me the strength to keep going.”

5. Despite various trials, what spirit has been shown by traveling overseers and their wives?

⁵ Despite health problems and other trials, traveling overseers and their wives find joy in their service and display self-sacrificing love. Some have risked their lives to render spiritual help in times of persecution or warfare. When visiting congregations, they have manifested a spirit similar to that of Paul, who told Thessalonian Christians: “We became gentle in the midst of you, as when a nursing mother cherishes her own children. So, having a tender affection for you, we were well pleased to impart to you, not only the good news of God, but also our own souls, because you became beloved to us.”—1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8.

6, 7. What positive influence can hardworking traveling overseers provide?

⁶ Like other elders in the Christian congregation, traveling overseers “work hard in speaking and teaching.” All such elders should “be reckoned worthy of double honor.” (1 Timothy 5:17) Their example can prove beneficial if, after ‘contemplating how their conduct turns out, we imitate their faith.’—Hebrews 13:7.

⁷ What effect have certain traveling elders had on others? “What a wonderful influence Brother P—— was in my life!” wrote one Witness of Jehovah. “He was a traveling overseer in Mexico from the year 1960 onward. As a child, I awaited his visits with expectation and joy. When I was ten years old, he told me, ‘You too are going to be a circuit overseer.’ During the difficult teenage years, I frequently sought him out because he always had words of wisdom to offer. He lived to shepherd the flock! Now that I am a circuit overseer, I always try to devote time to the young ones and to put theocratic goals before them as he did for me. Even in the final years of his life, despite problems with heart failure, Brother P—— always sought to offer an encouraging word. Just one day before his death in February 1995, he accompanied me to a special assembly day and put fine goals before a brother who is an architect. The brother immediately submitted an application to serve at Bethel.”

They Are Appreciated

8. Who are the “gifts in men” described in Ephesians chapter 4, and how do they benefit the congregation?

⁸ Traveling overseers and other elders favored with assignments of service by God’s undeserved kindness are called “gifts in men.” As Jehovah’s representative and Head of the congregation, Jesus has provided these spiritual men in order that we might be built up individually and attain to maturity. (Ephesians 4:8-15) Any gift deserves an expression of appreciation. Especially is this true of a gift that fortifies us to keep serving Jehovah. So, then, how can we display our appreciation for the work of traveling overseers? In what ways can we show that we ‘keep holding these men dear’?—Philippians 2:29.

9. In what ways can we show appreciation for traveling overseers?

⁹ When the circuit overseer’s visit is announced, we can start making plans to have a full share in the congregation’s activities for that week. Perhaps we can set aside extra time to support the field service arrangements during the visit. We may be able to serve as auxiliary pioneers during that month. Surely we will want to put the circuit overseer’s suggestions into practice in order to improve our ministry. Such a receptive spirit will benefit us and will reassure him that his visit is a useful one. Yes, traveling overseers visit the congregation to build us up, but they too need to be built up spiritually. There were times when Paul was in need of encouragement, and he often asked fellow Christians to pray for him. (Acts 28:15; Romans 15:30-32; 2 Corinthians 1:11; Colossians 4:2, 3; 1 Thessalonians 5:25) Present-day traveling overseers likewise need our prayers and encouragement.

10. How can we help to make a traveling overseer’s work a joy?

¹⁰ Have we told the circuit overseer and his wife how much we appreciate their visits? Do we thank him for the helpful counsel he gives us? Do we let him know when his field service suggestions increase our joy in the ministry? If we do, this will help to make his work a joy. (Hebrews 13:17) One circuit overseer in Spain particularly commented on how much he and his wife treasure the thank-you notes they have received after visiting congregations. “We keep these cards and read them when we are feeling low,” he says. “They are a source of real encouragement.”

11. Why should we let the circuit and district overseers’ wives know that they are loved and appreciated?

¹¹ The traveling overseer’s wife surely benefits from words of commendation. She has made great sacrifices to assist her husband in this field of service. These faithful sisters forgo the natural desire to have their own home and, in many cases, also that of having children. Jephthah’s daughter was one of Jehovah’s servants who willingly relinquished her opportunity to have a husband and a family because of a vow her father made. (Judges 11:30-39) How was her sacrifice viewed? Judges 11:40 states: “From year to year the daughters of Israel would go to give commendation to the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite, four days in the year.” How fine it is when we make a point of telling the circuit and district overseers’ wives that they are loved and appreciated!

“Do Not Forget Hospitality”

12, 13. (a) What Scriptural basis is there for being hospitable to traveling overseers and their wives? (b) Illustrate how such hospitality can be mutually beneficial.

¹² Showing hospitality is another way to display love and appreciation for those in the Christian traveling work. (Hebrews 13:2) The apostle John commended Gaius for extending hospitality to those visiting the congregation as traveling missionaries. John wrote: “Beloved one, you are doing a faithful work in whatever you do for the brothers, and strangers at that, who have borne witness to your love before the congregation. These you will please send on their way in a manner worthy of God. For it was in behalf of his name that they went forth, not taking anything from the people of the nations. We, therefore, are under obligation to receive such persons hospitably, that we may become fellow workers in the truth.” (3 John 5-8) Today, we can further the Kingdom-preaching activity by extending similar hospitality to traveling overseers and their wives. Of course, local elders should make sure that accommodations are satisfactory, but one district overseer said: “Our involvement with the brothers cannot be predicated on who can do something for us. We would not even want to give that impression. We must be willing to accept the hospitality of any of our brothers, rich or poor.”

¹³ Hospitality can be mutually beneficial. “In my family, we had the custom of inviting traveling overseers to stay with us,” recalls Jorge, a former circuit overseer now serving at Bethel. “I feel that these visits helped me more than I then realized. During my adolescence, I had spiritual problems. My mother was worried about this but did not know just how to help and therefore asked the circuit overseer to talk with me. At first I avoided him, since I was afraid of being criticized. But his friendly manner finally won me over. He invited me to have a meal with him one Monday, and I opened my heart because I felt sure that I was being understood. He listened carefully. His practical suggestions really worked, and I began to progress spiritually.”

14. Why should we be appreciative rather than critical of traveling elders?

¹⁴ A traveling overseer tries to be spiritually helpful to young and old alike. Surely, then, we should show our appreciation for his efforts. However, what if we were to criticize him because of his weak points or compare him unfavorably with others who have visited the congregation? Likely, this would be very disheartening. It was not encouraging for Paul to hear criticisms of his work. Apparently, some Corinthian Christians were making disparaging remarks about his appearance and speaking ability. He himself quoted such critics as saying: “His letters are weighty and forceful, but his presence in person is weak and his speech contemptible.” (2 Corinthians 10:10) Happily, though, traveling overseers usually hear words of loving appreciation.

15, 16. How are traveling overseers and their wives affected by the love and zeal displayed by their fellow believers?

¹⁵ One circuit overseer in Latin America trudges a whole day along muddy trails in order to visit his spiritual brothers and sisters living in a zone controlled by guerrillas. “It is touching to see the way the brothers show their appreciation for the visit,” he writes. “Even though I have to make a great effort to get there, facing many dangers and hardships, all of this is rewarded by the love and zeal the brothers show.”

¹⁶ A circuit overseer in Africa writes: “Because of the love the brothers showed us, we loved the territory of Tanzania so much! Brothers were ready to learn from us, and they were happy to have us in their homes.” There was a loving and happy relationship between the apostle Paul and the first-century Christian married couple Aquila and Prisca. In fact, Paul said of them: “Give my greetings to Prisca and Aquila my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who have risked their own necks for my soul, to whom not only I but also all the congregations of the nations render thanks.” (Romans 16:3, 4) Traveling overseers and their wives are thankful to have as their friends modern-day Aquilas and Priscas who go out of their way to show hospitality and provide companionship.

Strengthening the Congregations

17. Why can it be said that there is wisdom behind the arrangement for traveling overseers, and where do they get their instruction?

¹⁷ Jesus said: “Wisdom is proved righteous by its works.” (Matthew 11:19) The wisdom behind the traveling-overseer arrangement is evident in that it helps to strengthen the congregations of God’s people. During Paul’s second missionary journey, he and Silas successfully “went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the congregations.” The book of Acts tells us: “As they traveled on through the cities they would deliver to those there for observance the decrees that had been decided upon by the apostles and older men who were in Jerusalem. Therefore, indeed, the congregations continued to be made firm in the faith and to increase in number from day to day.” (Acts 15:40, 41; 16:4, 5) Present-day traveling overseers receive spiritual instruction through the Scriptures and the publications of “the faithful and discreet slave,” as do all other Christians.—Matthew 24:45.

18. How do traveling overseers strengthen the congregations?

¹⁸ Yes, traveling elders must continue to feed at Jehovah’s spiritual table. They must be well acquainted with the methods and guidelines followed by God’s organization. Then such men can be a real blessing to others. By means of their fine example of zeal in the field service, they can help fellow believers to improve in the Christian ministry. The Bible-based talks given by these visiting elders upbuild listeners spiritually. By helping others to apply the counsel of God’s Word, serve in harmony with Jehovah’s people earth wide, and put to use the spiritual provisions made by God through the ‘faithful slave,’ traveling overseers strengthen the congregations they are privileged to visit.

19. What questions remain for consideration?

¹⁹ When Jehovah’s organization instituted the work of traveling elders among the Bible Students about a hundred years ago, this journal stated: “We shall watch for results and for the Lord’s further leading.” Jehovah’s leading has been clearly manifest. Because of his blessing and under the supervision of the Governing Body, this work has been expanded and refined over the years. As a result, congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses throughout the earth are being made firm in the faith and are increasing in number from day to day. Evidently, Jehovah is blessing the self-sacrificing spirit of these gifts in men. But how can traveling overseers successfully carry out their work? What are their objectives? How can they achieve the most good?

How Traveling Overseers Serve as Faithful Stewards

“In proportion as each one has received a gift, use it in ministering to one another as fine stewards of God’s undeserved kindness expressed in various ways.”—1 PETER 4:10.

1, 2. (a) How would you define the word “steward”? (b) Who are included among stewards used by God?

JEHOVAH uses all faithful Christians as stewards. A steward is often a servant in charge of a household. He may also manage his master’s business affairs. (Luke 16:1-3; Galatians 4:1, 2) Jesus called his body of loyal anointed ones on earth “the faithful steward.” To this steward he has committed “all his belongings,” including Kingdom-preaching activities.—Luke 12:42-44; Matthew 24:14, 45.

² The apostle Peter said that all Christians are stewards of God’s undeserved kindness expressed in various ways. Each Christian has a place in which he can carry out a faithful stewardship. (1 Peter 4:10) Appointed Christian elders are stewards, and among them are traveling overseers. (Titus 1:7) How are these traveling elders to be viewed? What qualities and objectives should they have? And how can they accomplish the most good?

Grateful for Their Service

3. Why can traveling overseers be called “fine stewards”?

³ Writing to a traveling overseer and his wife, one Christian married couple said: “We would like to express our gratitude for all the time and love you have given to us. As a family, we have benefited greatly from all your encouragement and advice. We know that we have to continue growing spiritually, but with Jehovah’s help and with brothers and sisters like you, the growing pains are made easier.” Expressions like these are frequent because traveling overseers take a personal interest in fellow believers, just as a good steward cares well for a household’s needs. Some are outstanding speakers. Many excel in the preaching work, while others are known for their warmth and compassion. By cultivating and using such gifts in ministering to others, traveling overseers can rightly be called “fine stewards.”

4. What question will now be considered?

⁴ “What is looked for in stewards is for a man to be found faithful,” wrote the apostle Paul. (1 Corinthians 4:2) Ministering to fellow Christians in a different congregation week after week is a unique and joyous privilege. Nevertheless, it is also a heavy responsibility. How, then, can traveling overseers faithfully and successfully carry out their stewardship?

Successfully Carrying Out Their Stewardship

5, 6. Why is prayerful reliance upon Jehovah so important in the life of a traveling overseer?

⁵ Prayerful reliance upon Jehovah is essential if traveling overseers are to be successful stewards. Because of their schedule and many responsibilities, they could sometimes feel weighed down. (Compare 2 Corinthians 5:4.) So they need to act in harmony with the psalmist David’s song: “Throw your burden upon Jehovah himself, and he himself will sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to totter.” (Psalm 55:22) Comforting, too, are David’s words: “Blessed be Jehovah, who daily carries the load for us.”—Psalm 68:19.

⁶ Where did Paul get the strength to care for his spiritual responsibilities? “For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me,” he wrote. (Philippians 4:13) Yes, Jehovah God was the Source of Paul’s strength. Similarly, Peter advised: “If anyone ministers, let him minister as dependent on the strength that God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:11) One brother who was a traveling overseer for many years emphasized the need for reliance on God, stating: “Always look to Jehovah in handling problems, and seek the aid of his organization.”

7. How does balance play a part in a traveling overseer’s work?

⁷ Balance is needed by a successful traveling overseer. Like other Christians, he strives to “make sure of the more important things.” (Philippians 1:10)a When the local elders have questions about a certain matter, it is wise for them to consult with the visiting circuit overseer. (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22) Likely, his balanced observations and Scriptural counsel will prove to be very helpful as the elders continue handling the matter after he has left the congregation. Along somewhat similar lines, Paul told Timothy: “The things you heard from me with the support of many witnesses, these things commit to faithful men, who, in turn, will be adequately qualified to teach others.”—2 Timothy 2:2.

8. Why are Bible study, research, and meditation essential?

⁸ Scriptural study, research, and meditation are requisites for giving sound counsel. (Proverbs 15:28) One district overseer said: “When meeting with the elders, we should not be afraid to admit that we do not know the answer to a particular question.” Putting forth the effort to get “the mind of Christ” on a matter makes it possible to give Bible-based counsel that will help others to comply with God’s will. (1 Corinthians 2:16) Sometimes a traveling overseer needs to write to the Watch Tower Society for direction. In any case, faith in Jehovah and love for the truth are far more important than image or eloquence. Instead of coming with “an extravagance of speech or of wisdom,” Paul began his ministry in Corinth “in weakness and in fear and with much trembling.” Did this make him ineffective? On the contrary, it helped the Corinthians to have faith, “not in men’s wisdom, but in God’s power.”—1 Corinthians 2:1-5.

Other Vital Qualities

9. Why is empathy needed by traveling elders?

⁹ Empathy helps traveling overseers to achieve good results. Peter urged all Christians to ‘show fellow feeling,’ or to be “sympathetic.” (1 Peter 3:8, footnote) One circuit overseer feels the need to ‘be interested in everyone in the congregation and be genuinely attentive.’ With a similar spirit, Paul wrote: “Rejoice with people who rejoice; weep with people who weep.” (Romans 12:15) Such an attitude moves traveling overseers to make earnest efforts to understand the problems and circumstances of fellow believers. Then they can give upbuilding Scriptural counsel that can accomplish real good if it is applied. A circuit overseer who excels in showing empathy received this letter from a congregation near Turin, Italy: “If you want to be interesting, be interested; if you want to be pleasing, be pleasant; if you want to be loved, be lovable; if you want to be helped, be ready to help. This is what we have learned from you!”

10. What have circuit and district overseers said about being humble, and what example did Jesus set in this regard?

¹⁰ Being humble and approachable assists traveling overseers to do much good. One circuit overseer observed: “It is most important to maintain a humble attitude.” He would caution new traveling overseers: “Do not let yourselves be unduly influenced by the more affluent brothers because of what they may do for you, nor limit your friendship to such ones, but strive always to deal with others impartially.” (2 Chronicles 19:6, 7) And a truly humble traveling overseer will not have an exaggerated view of his own importance as a representative of the Society. A district overseer appropriately commented: “Be humble and willing to listen to the brothers. Always be approachable.” As the greatest man who ever lived, Jesus Christ could have made people feel uncomfortable, but he was so humble and approachable that even children felt at ease in his presence. (Matthew 18:5; Mark 10:13-16) Traveling overseers want children, teenagers, elderly ones—indeed anyone and everyone in the congregation—to feel free to approach them.

11. When it is needed, what can be the effect of an apology?

¹¹ Of course, “we all stumble many times,” and no traveling overseer is immune to making mistakes. (James 3:2) When they make mistakes, a sincere apology gives other elders an example of humility. According to Proverbs 22:4, “the result of humility and the [reverential] fear of Jehovah is riches and glory and life.” And do not all of God’s servants need to ‘be humble in walking with their God’? (Micah 6:8, 1960 Edition) When asked what advice he would have for a new traveling elder, one circuit overseer commented: “Have high respect and regard for all the brothers, and consider them as being better than you. You will learn much from the brothers. Stay humble. Be yourself. Do not put on airs.”—Philippians 2:3.

12. Why is zeal for the Christian ministry so significant?

¹² Zeal for the Christian ministry lends weight to a traveling overseer’s words. In fact, when he and his wife set zealous examples in the evangelizing work, elders, their wives, and the rest of the congregation are encouraged to display zeal in their ministry. “Be zealous for the service,” urged one circuit overseer. He added: “I have found that, generally, the more zealous a congregation is in the ministry, the fewer problems they experience.” Another circuit overseer remarked: “I believe that if the elders work in the field with the brothers and sisters and help them to enjoy the ministry, this will result in peace of mind and the greatest satisfaction in serving Jehovah.” The apostle Paul ‘mustered up boldness to speak the good news of God to the Thessalonians with a great deal of struggling.’ No wonder they had fond memories of his visit and preaching activity and longed to see him again!—1 Thessalonians 2:1, 2; 3:6.

13. What does a traveling overseer take into account when working with fellow Christians in the field service?

¹³ When working with fellow Christians in the field ministry, a traveling overseer takes into account their circumstances and limitations. Although his suggestions may be helpful, he knows that some may be nervous when preaching with an experienced elder. In certain cases, therefore, encouragement may be more useful than counsel. When he accompanies publishers or pioneers on a Bible study, they may prefer that he conduct it. This is likely to acquaint them with some ways to improve their teaching methods.

14. Why can it be said that zealous traveling overseers stimulate zeal in others?

¹⁴ Zealous traveling overseers stimulate zeal in others. One circuit overseer in Uganda walked through the thick forest for an hour in order to accompany a brother on a Bible study that was making little progress. During their walk it rained so heavily that they arrived soaked to the skin. When the family of six learned that their visitor was a traveling overseer, they were very impressed. They knew that ministers of their church would never show such interest in the flock. The next Sunday, they attended their first meeting and expressed a desire to become Jehovah’s Witnesses.

15. What fine experience was enjoyed by a zealous circuit overseer in Mexico?

¹⁵ In the Mexican state of Oaxaca, one circuit overseer made an effort not really expected of him. He arranged to stay in a prison cell for four nights in order to visit a group of seven inmates who had become Kingdom publishers. For several days he accompanied these prisoners as they witnessed from cell to cell and conducted Bible studies. Because of the interest shown, some of these studies continued well into the night. “At the end of the visit, the inmates and I felt full of joy as a result of the mutual encouragement,” writes this zealous circuit overseer.

16. Why is it so beneficial when traveling overseers and their wives provide encouragement?

¹⁶ Traveling overseers try to be encouraging. When Paul visited the congregations in Macedonia, he ‘encouraged them with many a word.’ (Acts 20:1, 2) Words of encouragement can be very helpful in directing both young and old toward spiritual goals. At one large branch office of the Watch Tower Society, an informal survey revealed that circuit overseers had encouraged nearly 20 percent of the volunteers to take up full-time service. By her fine example as a full-time Kingdom proclaimer, the traveling overseer’s wife also proves to be a great source of encouragement.

17. How does one elderly circuit overseer feel about his privilege of rendering aid to others?

¹⁷ Older ones and depressed souls are particularly in need of encouragement. One elderly circuit overseer writes: “The facet of my work that generates an unspeakable inner joy is the privilege of rendering aid to the inactive and feeble ones among God’s flock. The words of Romans 1:11, 12 have special meaning for me, as I derive immense encouragement and strength while ‘imparting some spiritual gift to such ones in order for them to be made firm.’”

Rewards of Their Joyful Work

18. What Scriptural objectives do traveling overseers have?

¹⁸ Traveling overseers have the best interests of fellow believers at heart. They want to strengthen the congregations and build them up spiritually. (Acts 15:41) One traveling overseer works hard “to give encouragement, provide refreshment, and promote a desire to fulfill the ministry and continue living the truth.” (3 John 3) Another one seeks to stabilize fellow believers in the faith. (Colossians 2:6, 7) Remember that the traveling overseer is a “genuine yokefellow,” not a master over the faith of others. (Philippians 4:3; 2 Corinthians 1:24) His visit is an occasion for encouragement and extra activity, as well as an opportunity for the body of elders to review progress made and consider future goals. By his words and example, congregation publishers, pioneers, ministerial servants, and elders can expect to be built up and stimulated for the work ahead. (Compare 1 Thessalonians 5:11.) So, then, wholeheartedly support the circuit overseer’s visits, and take full advantage of the service rendered by the district overseer.

19, 20. How have traveling overseers and their wives been rewarded for their faithful service?

¹⁹ Traveling overseers and their wives are richly rewarded for their faithful service, and they can be confident that Jehovah will bless them for the good they do. (Proverbs 19:17; Ephesians 6:8) Georg and Magdalena are an elderly couple who served for many years in the traveling work. At a convention in Luxembourg, Magdalena was approached by a person to whom she had given a witness over 20 years earlier. This Jewish woman’s interest in the truth was aroused by the Bible literature Magdalena left with her, and in time she was baptized. Georg was approached by a spiritual sister who remembered his visit to her home nearly 40 years ago. His enthusiastic presentation of the good news ultimately led both her and her husband to accept the truth. Needless to say, both Georg and Magdalena were overjoyed.

²⁰ Paul’s fruitful ministry in Ephesus brought him joy and may have moved him to quote Jesus’ words: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” (Acts 20:35) Since traveling work involves constant giving, those engaging in it experience happiness, especially when they become aware of the good results of their labor. One circuit overseer who helped a discouraged elder was told in a letter: “You have been a great ‘strengthening aid’ in my spiritual life—more than you know. . . . You will never fully know how much help you have been to a modern-day Asaph, whose ‘feet had almost turned aside.’”—Colossians 4:11; Psalm 73:2.

21. Why would you say that 1 Corinthians 15:58 applies to the activities of traveling overseers?

²¹ An elderly Christian who was in the circuit work for years likes to think of 1 Corinthians 15:58, where Paul urged: “Become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord.” Traveling overseers surely have much to do in the Lord’s work. And how grateful we are that they serve so joyfully as faithful stewards of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness!