Friday, July 2, 2021
There is a time to speak (Eccl. 3: 1, 7).
The ability to speak is a gift from Jehovah (Ex. 4:10, 11; Rev. 4:11). In his Word, he teaches us to use it properly. We must always be ready to talk about Jehovah and the Kingdom (Matt. 24:14; Rom. 10:14). In doing so, we imitate Jesus. One of the main reasons he came to earth was to make known the truth about his Father (John 18:37). Now, we must remember that the way we speak is also important. So when we talk to others about Jehovah, we should do so “with mildness and deep respect,” and be considerate of their feelings and beliefs. --1 Pet. 3:15. Then our preaching will be more than just words, for we will teach people something and perhaps reach their hearts. On the other hand, if the elders see that a brother or sister needs advice, they should not remain silent. Of course, they will wait to find the appropriate time to do it, so that the person does not feel unnecessarily embarrassed. w20.03 18-19 pars. 2-4
According to Proverbs 9: 9, what can our words do?
If the elders see that a brother or sister needs advice, they should not remain silent. Of course, they will wait to find the appropriate time to do it, perhaps when they are in a discreet place, so that the person does not feel unnecessarily embarrassed. When counseling someone, elders always try to respect their dignity. But they are not shy about showing you biblical principles that will help you do well (read Proverbs 9: 9). Why is it so important that we be courageous and speak up when necessary? Let's look at the examples of two characters in the Bible who acted very differently. First we will talk about a man who had to correct his children and then we will see the case of a woman who had to speak with a future king.
Why can we say that High Priest Eli was silent even though he rebuked his sons?
The high priest Eli had two sons whom he loved very much. But these men did not respect Jehovah. They had an important position in the tabernacle, as they were priests. However, they abused their authority, displayed gross disrespect for Jehovah's offerings, and brazenly committed immoral sexual acts. --1 Sam. 2: 12-17, 22. According to the Law of Moses, they deserved to die, but Eli was permissive. He simply rebuked them gently and allowed them to continue serving in the tabernacle (Deut. 21: 18-21). What did Jehovah think of this? He said to Eli, "Why do you keep honoring your children more than me?" So he decided to finish off those two evil men (1 Sam. 2:29, 34).
What does the case of Elí teach us?
Eli's case teaches us an important lesson. If we learn that a friend or family member has violated God's law, we should talk to them and remind them of the Bible standards. Then we need to make sure that he receives the help he needs from Jehovah's representatives. --Jas. 5:14. We never want to be like Eli and honor a friend or family member more than Jehovah. It takes courage to talk to someone in need of correction, but the effort is worth it. Let's look at the difference between what Eli did and what an Israelite named Abigail did.
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