Pr 21:21. 9,10. On the contrary, loyalty, or loyal love, has the stability and strength to overcome the most daunting of obstacles. . 21 Now more than ever before is the time for those who fear Jehovah to call upon him in trueness. His loyal ones delight to use his name in their prayers and in the comments they make at their meetings. (Psalm 136:23,26). ; 24:10) This is in line with the apostle Pauls admonition: Speak consolingly to those who are depressed, support the weak, be patient toward all.1Thess. 2 Jehovah shows love for his true worshipers in a precious, lasting way. (Ruth 1:14; 2:11) Even that act was surpassed by the last instance of loving-kindnessRuths willingness to marry Boaz. Ruths decision was an act of true loyal love. 8. (1John 2:1,2; 3:6) It is the course of wisdom to bear in mind that Jehovah will continue to show loving-kindness, or loyal love, toward us only if we remain faithful to him.2Samuel 22:26. (Psalm 110:3; 1Thessalonians 5:12) Such elders, or overseers, feel a responsibility to live up to the trust conferred upon them by reason of their appointment. Ruth had shown loyal love to Naomi, but now Ruth herself needed encouragement. In this article, we will consider what we can learn from the examples of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. (a)What motivates someone to show loyal love? 7, 8. 16 Be persistent. ^ par. 5 Jehovah wants us to show loyal love to our brothers and sisters in the congregation. 7 The Bible says of Jehovah: You alone are loyal. (Revelation 15:4) How can that be? 15. (Acts 27:3728:1) Although the Maltese had neither a prior commitment to the stranded voyagers nor an existing relationship with them, the islanders received the strangers hospitably, showing them extraordinary human kindness. (Acts 28:2,7) Their hospitality was kind, but it was incidental and shown to strangers. What trials befall Gods loyal ones, and what help do they have? And does loving-kindness differ from normal human kindness or from kindness in general? 4. (Genesis 15:18; 35:10,12; 49:29-32) Jacob did not want to be buried in Egypt, however, so he made provisions for his remains to be taken to the land of Canaan. As you read those verses, you cannot help but be struck by the many ways in which Jehovah demonstrated loyal love toward his people. Jehovah thus fulfilled his promise that Davids kingship would be firmly established to time indefinite.2Samuel 7:12,13; Luke 1:32,33. (Ruth 1:8) Ruth was also free to marry one of the young fellows instead of aged Boaz. When Naomi and Ruth arrived in Bethlehem, Naomi met her former neighbors. And to produce an heir, Naomi needed Ruths assistance. Ruth tells Naomi: Where you go I will go (See paragraph13), 13. * (Ruth 2:19, 20b) Now I understand, she must have thought, Jehovah never left me. Consider Michal, Davids first wife. (Job 1:1; Revelation 4:8) And what of Jesus Christ? 17 Application: It takes patience to help those who are depressed, but we should not give up on them. (Dan. What special aspect of love does Jehovah show for those who are in a dedicated relationship with him? During 1939, World WarII started in Europe. God's loyal love is enduring. (Psalm 16:10) How, then, can it be said that Jehovah alone is loyal? PRIVACY POLICY He has been with me this whole time! (Read Psalm 136:23,26.) This may be the result of such factors as loneliness, discouragement, feelings of unworthiness, disappointment in others, serious illness, or the death of a loved one. How do two Bible examples cited here illustrate the difference between human kindness and loving-kindness? will not return to me without results, but it will certainly accomplish whatever is my delight, and it will have sure success in what I send it to do. (Isaiah 55:11) By remaining faithful to his word, Jehovah shows loyalty to his people. If we show loving-kindness to someone, however, we lovingly attach ourselves to that person. Third, pursuing loyal love leads to future blessings, including everlasting life. 2 Then there was Davids personal adviser, Ahithophel. By listening, we can help a discouraged brother or sister (See paragraph12). (b)What questions will we consider? Such timely and warm commendation will give the brothers and sisters the strength they need to carry on.Read Isaiah 32:1,2. Throughout all his adversity, David knew that indeed there was. 1. How do we know that Jehovah takes note when his loyal ones speak well of him? It is not like waves of the sea blown about by changing winds. a Then, too, the word faithful can be applied to inanimate things. Carry on with one another loving-kindness.ZECHARIAH 7:9. When Ruth offered to accompany her mother-in-law to Judah, Naomi at first objected. Indeed, they kept ridiculing the messengers of the true God, and they despised his words and mocked his prophets. With what result? 22 After some time had passed, Boaz provided a generous gift of food for Ruth and Naomi. 17:17. ^ par. 18. WHAT BENEFITS COME TO THOSE WHO SHOW LOYAL LOVE. And how Jehovahs servants rejoice in the hope of soon seeing the earth transformed into a physical paradise!Luke 23:42,43. Such timely and warm commendation will give the brothers and sisters the strength they need to carry on.Read Isaiah 32:1,2. What happened in 1914, and what proof is there that God now reigns through the Kingdom of his Son? 4,5. . What are some of them? In this article, we will discuss how Jehovah shows loyal love to humans. Then you will find favor and good insight in the eyes of God and man. A man of loyal love benefits himself. Whoever pursues righteousness and loyal love will find life.Prov. The beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses are based on the Bible teachings of Charles Taze Russellfounder of the Bible Student movementand successive presidents of the Watch Tower Society, Joseph Franklin Rutherford, and Nathan Homer Knorr. 17 The spiritual food that Jehovah provides is not only timely but also richly satisfying. 18 Another example of timely, satisfying spiritual food is the book Draw Close to Jehovah, which was released at hundreds of Zealous Kingdom Proclaimers District Conventions held around the world in 2002/03. 20 Throughout history, Jehovah has shown remarkable loyalty toward faithful humans. As discussed in Chapter26, Jehovah does not bring up errors of the past for which a person has been pardoned. 19. In a psalm, David said of Jehovah: "He has not dealt with us according to our sins or given us what we deserve for our mistakes" (Ps. . His heart moved him to show loyal love to his dear friend Jonathan even though Jonathans father wanted to kill David. All this spiritual food has been a blessing to true worshipers around the earth. How will the words of Psalm 145:18-20 prove true in the near future? For example, the psalmist called the moon a faithful witness in the skies because of its regular nightly appearance. THE WATCHTOWERSTUDY EDITION November2021, Audio download options Yet, in all his years with the company, he may never have met any of the directors. Willingly and gently, Ruth helped her mother-in-law to regain her emotional and spiritual balance. What can we learn from the book of Ruth about showing loyal love? The apostle Paul acknowledged this and expressed his appreciation when . Second, by showing loyal love, we benefit ourselves. In fact, for thousands of years, Jehovah has tolerated with much patience vessels of wrath made fit for destruction. Why? More is involved than faithfulness. After all, Bethuel was under no legal obligation to part with his daughter. Sorry, there was an error loading the video. When we observe how those in need regain their spiritual strength, we feel deep joy. (a)Why should we display loving-kindness? Those who showed loyal love did so, not because they had to, but because their hearts impelled them. They did so not only with kind words but with specific actions. (Matthew 19:28) By opening up the way of salvation for these vessels of mercy, Jehovah remained loyal to Abraham, to whom he had made this covenant promise: By means of your offspring all nations of the earth will obtain a blessing for themselves because you have listened to my voice.Genesis 22:18. 16 Consider a striking example of spiritual food received in the right season. Deal with one another in loyal love and mercy.ZECH. You are opening your hand and satisfying the desire of every living thing. (Psalm 145:15,16) Even in times of calamity, Jehovah can maneuver matters so that his loyal ones get bread for the day.Luke 11:3; 12:29,30. After all, a person might be faithful merely out of a sense of duty. 11 The book of Ruth relates how the widow Naomi received loving-kindness from her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth, who was also a widow. As described at Isaiah 32:1, 2, what will caring elders provide? How does Jehovah satisfy the desire of every living thing? 16 Of course, as a nation the Israelites failed to demonstrate appreciation for Jehovahs loyal love, for after their deliverance they continued to sin against [Jehovah] by rebelling against the Most High. (Psalm 78:17) Over the centuries, they rebelled again and again, leaving Jehovah and turning to false gods and pagan practices that brought nothing but defilement. Obadiah1-4, 10-16 How did Jehovahs loyalty to his people move him to punish the Edomites for their disloyal conduct? Jehovah is the supreme example of loyal love. 20:9, 14, 15; 2Sam. 22 To continue benefiting from our close relationship with Jehovah God, it is also vital that we keep on resisting such spiritually detrimental things as materialism, unwholesome entertainment, an unforgiving spirit, or indifference toward needy ones. Ruth, however, went beyond that. In what ways was loving-kindness exercised by Bethuel, Joseph, and Ruth? * Still, loyal love will move us to do our best to stick with her. 12. Today, as in the past, many of our brothers and sisters have chosen to show loyal love for fellow believers, even to those whom they do not know personally. 13 David mentioned that every living thing gets satisfied. Helping the brothers is a great source of joy and satisfaction to me! Caring elders everywhere wholeheartedly agree. (a)How do Gods present-day servants show loving-kindness by actions? (Ruth 1:6) Both daughters-in-law started out with her. And Jehovah moved Boaz to encourage her. 6 Jehovah's loyal servants can also be identified by their courage and initiative in speaking to people who are not worshipers of the true God. But the points in this article apply equally to brothers. Moreover, their striking record of integrity during that war continues to help people to identify the true religion.Isaiah 2:2-4. Ep Do THIS to Feel the Love and LOYALTY OF JESUS Now - Feb 25, 2023. Ruth had wept with her, comforted her, and walked with her for days on end. 34:6; Ps. And I must lie with my fathers, and you must carry me out of Egypt and bury me in their grave. (Genesis 47:29,30) Joseph promised to comply with this request, and shortly thereafter Jacob died. Balei ngi lah ban ong ba ka jingsiewspah ka dei ka jingai sngewbha a ngi shimet shimet? True, Jehovah is abundant in loyal love, and he delights to show mercy when there is a basis for it. It is believed to come from the verb meaning "to be" or "to exist" and is likely the oldest Divine Name in human history. Loyal love moves us not to give up easily on brothers and sisters who are in distress. Scribd is the world's largest social reading and publishing site. . Why? Not only did Bethuel say, Here is Rebekah but he actually sent off Rebekah. (Genesis 24:51,59) Not only did Joseph say, I myself shall do in keeping with your word but he and his brothers did for Jacob exactly as he had commanded them. (Genesis 47:30; 50:12,13) Not only did Ruth say, Where you go I shall go but she left her people and accompanied Naomi, so that they both continued on their way until they came to Bethlehem. (Ruth 1:16,19) In Judah, Ruth again acted according to all that her mother-in-law had commanded her. (Ruth 3:6) Yes, Ruths loving-kindness, like that of others, was expressed by actions. To whom should we show loyal love? On the contrary, he showed empathy for her. In the opening verse, we read: "Give thanks to Jehovah, for he is good; his loyal love endures forever." ( Ps. 103:8-11). (See paragraphs20-21). Just as Boaz reassured Ruth that her kindness had not gone unnoticed, observant elders today gratefully acknowledge the help that loving brothers and sisters provide. In response, Ruth said to Boaz: You have comforted me and spoken reassuringly to your servant. (Ruth 2:12,13) The timely words of Boaz gave Ruth the strength she needed to carry on. 3 Normal human kindness and loving-kindness differ in various ways. 6 Jehovahs loyal servants can also be identified by their courage and initiative in speaking to people who are not worshipers of the true God. It also moves us to make sacrifices in order to help them. ; 21:21. I was, faith. . Deal with one another in loyal love and mercy.ZECH. (Acts 20:35) What, though, is the foremost reason why we continue to show loyal love? We can deepen our understanding of what loyal love is by examining how some of Gods servants in the past showed this quality. Third, pursuing loyal love leads to future blessings, including everlasting life. Joseph Brodsky<br><br>Out of nowhere with love, the thirteenth martobra,<br>dear, respected, sweet, but never mind<br>even who, for the heck of it, speaking<br>frankly, don't remember already, not yours but<br>and no one's loyal friend greets you with one<br>from five continents, holding on to cowboys;<br>I loved you more than I loved angels and myself.<br>and therefore farther from you now . ( Psalm 31:16) Jehovah, the powerful one, is asked to show loving-kindness, or loyal love, to the needy one, David. He will continue to work there until he retires, unless he is offered a better position elsewhere. | This phrase is a translation of the Hebrew word khesed. How did Ruth show her persistence? What lessons about loyal love can we learn from the individuals featured in that book? (1Sam. 20. Who are the vessels of mercy, and how does Jehovah show loyalty to them? 13 But Jehovahs loyal love endures forever in another sense as well. Still, Jehovah did not break his covenant. 17 Because we are considering the example of Naomi, we refer to sisters in need. 14. 11 Loyal love moves us to reach out to those in distress. With what attitude should we display loving-kindness? PRIVACY SETTINGS, Continue Showing Loyal Love to One Another, https://assetsnffrgf-a.akamaihd.net/assets/m/2021646/univ/art/2021646_univ_sqr_xl.jpg, THE WATCHTOWERSTUDY EDITION November2021, https://assetsnffrgf-a.akamaihd.net/assets/a/w/E/202111/wpub/w_E_202111_lg.jpg, Share The most outstanding feature of that sign is the work Jesus foretold for all of Gods loyal ones when he said: This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:3-14) Because Gods loyal ones are zealously fulfilling that prophecy, over six million men, women, and children are now sharing in this grand, never-to-be-repeated work. Because loyalty is an expression of lovesomething that inanimate things cannot display. Catholic Coach and Parish Mission Speaker, Joe Farris joins Joseph to talk about how you can experience the fierce loyalty of God. Jehovah thus stated: My word that goes out of my mouth . 21 So, then, let us continue to imitate Jehovah God, who is abundant in loving-kindness. (Exodus 34:6; Ephesians 5:1) We can do so by willingly taking specific action, particularly in behalf of those in need. The King Jesus Christ has the same loving interest in his loyal subjects.Psalm 72:12-14. Who deserves the credit for all of this? Jehovah will loyally remember and resurrect those who have proved loyal even to death, Bernard Luimes (left) and Wolfgang Kusserow (center) were executed by the Nazis, Moses Nyamussua (right) was speared to death by a political group. If it were not for earths abundant vegetation of the land and plants of the sea, aquatic creatures, birds, and land animals would have no oxygen to breathe or food to eat. Why can it be said that King David was no stranger to disloyalty? She became so overwhelmed by anguish that she concluded that Jehovah was opposing her. (a)How does Jehovah show loyalty to a great crowd who have the prospect of coming out of the great tribulation? Despite all of this, Naomi said: Jehovah made me return empty-handed. With those words, Naomi did not even acknowledge the support of Ruth, who was standing next to her. We can deepen our understanding of what loyal love is by examining how some of Gods servants in the past showed this quality. The individual actions of many Witnesses was commendable and Watchtower holds up this part of their history in great esteem. (Revelation 7:9, 10,14) Although his servants are imperfect, Jehovah loyally extends to them the opportunity to live forever on a paradise earth. Jehovah is guarding all those loving him, but all the wicked ones he will annihilate.Psalm 145:18-20. Elders need to give timely and warm encouragement to those who extend loyal love to others. What will help us to stick with someone who is distressed? Finally, the servant said: If you are actually exercising loving-kindness and trustworthiness toward my master, tell me; but if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand or to the left.Ge 24 Verse49. 3:3,4; 11:17, ftn. Will their reverential fear of God and love for him prove to be in vain? Give examples to show that Jehovah is faithful to his word of promise. (See paragraphs20-21). 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