DAILY TEXT, Today's Thursday, August 11, 2022, Continue to overcome evil with good (Rom. 12:21).

DAILY TEXT, Today Thursday August 11, 2022

Let's Examine the Scriptures Every Day 2022

Thursday, August 11, 2022

Keep overcoming evil with good (Rom. 12:21).

The apostle Paul had enemies far more powerful than he. On many occasions they ordered him to be beaten and put him in prison. He also suffered mistreatment from those who should have been his friends. Even some in the Christian congregation turned against him (2 Cor. 12:11; Phil. 3:18). But he never let himself be defeated by his enemies. He continued to preach despite opposition. He was loyal to his brothers even when they let him down. And, above all, he was faithful to God to the end of his days (2 Tim. 4:8). Although he had so much against him, he came out victorious because he trusted Jehovah and not his own strength. Do we have to endure insults or persecution? Our goal is to use the Word of God to reach the minds and hearts of those with a good attitude. How can we achieve it? Using the Bible to answer people's questions, showing kindness and respect to those who treat us badly, and doing good to everyone, including our enemies (Matt. 5:44; 1 Pet. 3:15-17 ). w20.07 18 paras. 14, 15

a) According to Philippians 3:8, what did Paul think of the things he had given up? b) Why did Paul say that he rejoiced in having weaknesses?

Paul willingly gave up the things that made him powerful from the standpoint of this world. In fact, he went so far as to call those apparent advantages “a load of rubbish” (read Philippians 3:8). Of course, he had to pay a price for becoming a follower of Christ. His own nation came to hate him (Acts 23:12-14). And the Romans, who were his fellow citizens, beat him and put him in prison (Acts 16: 19-24, 37). Furthermore, it pained him greatly to be aware of his own limitations (Rom. 7:21-25). But he never let his enemies or his weaknesses stop him. Rather, he said, "I'm glad I have weaknesses." Why? Because when he felt weak he was when he saw how the power of God helped him (2 Cor. 4: 7; 12:10).

How should we view any supposed disadvantage we have?

If we want Jehovah to grant us his power, we must not think that our personal worth depends on our physical strength, education, culture, or material possessions. This is not what makes us useful in Jehovah's eyes. In fact, among God's people "there are not many wise from a human point of view, nor many mighty, nor many of noble birth." Rather, Jehovah has decided to use “the weak things of the world” (1 Cor. 1:26, 27). Therefore, let us not see any supposed disadvantage as an obstacle to serving God, but as an opportunity to see how he helps us with his power. For example, if someone tries to make us doubt our beliefs and we feel intimidated, let us pray for courage to defend our faith (Eph. 6:19, 20). Or, if we are struggling with some kind of chronic disease, Let us ask Jehovah for the strength to continue doing all we can in his service. Every time we feel help from him, our faith increases and we become stronger.

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