Watchtower Study Guide, "Article 15," Week of June 16-22, 2025, Drawing Closer to God Is Good for Us, Answers.

Watchtower Study Guide, "Article 15," June 16-22, 2025, Drawing Closer to God Is Good for Us, Answers.

“For me, drawing near to God is good for me” (Ps. 73:28).

1, 2. a) What does it take to have a good friend?

Having a good friendship with someone requires sharing meaningful moments, getting to know their way of thinking, and appreciating their personality. The same applies to our relationship with Jehovah: He is not a distant or indifferent God, but someone who desires a close friendship with us.

As mentioned in the paragraph, seeing His beautiful qualities makes us want to imitate them and draw closer to Him. Texts like Psalm 103:8 remind us that Jehovah is merciful and compassionate, slow to anger and full of faithful love—qualities that inspire us with confidence.

1, 2. b) What will we see in this article?

The article presents a key idea: drawing closer to God takes time and effort, but it's absolutely worth it. To draw closer to Jehovah, we must pray frequently, meditate on His Word, and trust that He always wants the best for us.

Therefore, this article not only addresses how to draw closer to God, but also reminds us that doing so brings emotional, spiritual, and even practical benefits, giving us peace, stability, and purpose in life.

3. Why should we meditate on the benefits of drawing close to Jehovah? Give an example.

Meditating on the benefits of drawing closer to Jehovah keeps us motivated to continue cultivating a close relationship with Him.

The example of physical health is apt: we know what's good for us, but when we don't think about the benefits, we easily neglect it. Spiritually, this can also happen. Therefore, pausing to consider how much our lives improve when we are close to Jehovah strengthens our resolve to seek him more earnestly.

Texts like Psalm 63:6-8 reflect how David found peace in thinking about God, even at night. He felt that Jehovah was holding him like the wing of a bird, an image that conveys care and protection. Meditating on this reminds us that we are not alone.

4. What did the psalmist express in Psalm 73:28?

The psalmist who wrote Psalm 73 was likely Asaph, a Levite appointed as a musician in the temple. Although he had served faithfully for many years, in this psalm he opens his heart and recognizes a great truth: that drawing near to Jehovah is not just an obligation or a spiritual routine, but a true personal benefit.

Therefore, no matter how long we have served God, we always need to strengthen our friendship with Him. And when we do, we feel a strong desire to tell others about His goodness, just as the psalmist did.

GETTING CLOSER TO GOD MAKES US HAPPY

5. (a) Why does it make us happy to draw near to Jehovah?

True happiness comes from our relationship with Jehovah. As Psalm 65:4 says, He blesses us with his closeness, and this brings us deep happiness.

The article explains that, among other reasons, we are happy because His wisdom acts as a constant guide and protection. Therefore, the closer we draw to God, the more protected we feel.

He doesn't promise a life without difficulties, but he does give us the tools to face them with peace and wisdom. That's what brings true happiness.

5. b) In what ways does Jehovah’s wisdom help and protect you? (Proverbs 2:6-16)

Proverbs 2:6-16 beautifully details how this divine wisdom works. Jehovah not only gives us commands, but also understanding and logic, which help us make good decisions.

This wisdom acts as a kind of shield against bad influences, disloyal people, corrupt ideas, or hasty decisions.

God's wisdom shapes our thinking and teaches us to see things from Jehovah's perspective, resulting in a more balanced and secure life.

6. Why did the psalmist lose his joy?

As shown in Psalm 73, the psalmist's sadness was the result of indulging in negative thoughts. He observed how people who disrespected Jehovah seemed to succeed in every aspect: money, health, and power.

Instead of focusing on his friendship with God, he compared himself to them and felt his spiritual efforts were in vain. This shows us that even those who have served Jehovah faithfully for years can experience moments of doubt and discouragement.

This story encourages us to be patient with ourselves when we go through similar feelings. Jehovah understands our inner struggles and helps us overcome them if we continue to seek his company.

7. How can we regain joy when we go through a period of sadness? (See also the image.)

The psalmist felt frustrated and sad, but he didn't remain trapped in those feelings. He decided to draw closer to Jehovah by entering the "magnificent sanctuary of God." That expression can represent the place of worship, but it also symbolizes seeking Jehovah's presence and spiritual guidance. In doing so, his way of thinking changed: he understood that appearances can be deceptive and that people who live without God lack a truly solid foundation.

Today we can apply that example by humbly turning to Jehovah in prayer, reading his Word, and reflecting on it. The organization also provides us with tools such as encouraging publications, videos, and practical tips to help us maintain the right focus.

ILLUSTRATION

A Levite, standing between the copper altar and the temple porch.

The Levite who wrote Psalm 73, “in the magnificent sanctuary of God.” (See paragraph 7.)

Getting closer to God gives us a full life and hope.

8. In what other ways does drawing closer to God benefit us?

Drawing close to Jehovah benefits us profoundly in at least two very significant ways. First, it gives us a fulfilling life—a life with purpose, direction, and true meaning. Second, by drawing close to Jehovah, we gain a firm hope for the future. As Jeremiah 29:11 says, “Jehovah has plans for his people and desires to give us a future full of hope.”

These two benefits are gifts that only Jehovah can offer. They help us remain steadfast in difficult times, motivate us to keep going, and give us solid reasons to be happy, even in a world filled with challenges.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

By drawing near to Jehovah, we receive two things: a meaningful life and a firm hope for the future. As Jeremiah 29:11 says, "Jehovah desires the best for us and promises us peace and a future full of hope."

9. Why does drawing close to Jehovah give meaning to our lives?

For centuries, humanity has searched for a clear answer about the purpose of life. However, the Bible provides a clear and comforting answer: we were created by a loving God who wants the best for us.

Therefore, without a Creator, human life lacks a solid foundation for hope. Therefore, when we are close to Jehovah, we feel that our lives have value and purpose.

We don't live just to survive in this difficult world; we have a purpose, a reason to get up every day, and a future to look forward to. This gives us a profound peace of mind and a happiness that doesn't depend on external circumstances.

10. According to Psalm 37:29, What future awaits those who trust in Jehovah?

This verse reveals one of the most comforting promises Jehovah has made to us: eternal life in a paradise on earth. Those who trust in Jehovah and strive to be righteous in his sight will not live just a few years, but will enjoy a perfect, endless life.

This hope differs from that of many people around the world, who don't think optimistically about the future. As mentioned in the paragraph, their lives revolve around material things: working, starting a family, or saving for retirement.

In contrast, Jehovah's servants have a firm and lasting hope. We trust that our Creator will fulfill his promise to restore the earth and allow the righteous to enjoy it forever.

11. How does it benefit us to draw closer to God, and how does he feel when we do so?

Drawing close to Jehovah is something that benefits us profoundly, both emotionally and spiritually. By receiving His forgiveness, we are not only freed from guilt, but we also strengthen our relationship with Him. This forgiveness comes with inner peace and the certainty that Jehovah is always willing to help us improve.

Furthermore, as we draw near to God, we see that our actions, such as repentance and striving to live by his standards, not only benefit us but also bring joy to Jehovah, who appreciates our sincerity and love for him.

WHAT TO DO TO GET CLOSER TO GOD

12. What should you do to get closer to God?

Drawing closer to Jehovah isn't just a moment in our lives, but an ongoing process. We begin taking important steps toward drawing closer to Him when we are baptized, but the relationship must continue to develop.

Living by what we learn from the Bible, growing spiritually, and maintaining constant prayer are some of the ways we can continue to draw closer to Jehovah.

It is vital not only to obey His commandments, but also to demonstrate sincere faith and love, which is essential to cultivating an even closer friendship with Him.

13. What three things will help us draw ever closer to Jehovah?

To draw closer to Jehovah, we must commit ourselves in three key areas.

First, it is critical that we continue to deepen our study of the Bible, as encouraged in Ephesians 5:15-17.

Second, we must strengthen our faith by constantly remembering the love and blessings Jehovah gives us.

And third, it is vital that we hate practices that displease Jehovah and avoid associating ourselves with those who practice them, as Psalms 1:1 and 101:3 teach us.

Therefore, drawing closer to Jehovah involves a continual commitment to reading the Bible, strengthening our faith, and staying away from what He disapproves of.

14. What can we do in our daily lives to please Jehovah? (1 Corinthians 10:31; see also the pictures.)

In our daily lives, the most important thing is that our efforts be directed toward pleasing Jehovah in everything we do.

According to 1 Corinthians 10:31, it's not just about what we do in our spiritual activities, but how we live in every aspect of our lives.

While preaching and attending meetings are essential, we must also be honest in all our relationships and practice generosity.

Furthermore, Jehovah wants us to take care of our health, which means eating and drinking in moderation, showing gratitude for the life He has given us.

Every decision we make, even small daily actions, should reflect our efforts to please Jehovah, and each of these efforts contributes to earning us his affection.

ILLUSTRATION

Pictures of things we can do to please Jehovah. 1. Drive safely: A brother driving a car stops at a red light. 2. Take care of our bodies: A brother walks briskly through a park. 3. Eat healthy food: A plate with several healthy foods. 4. Be generous: A sister brings flowers and food to an older sister whose arm is immobilized.

Driving safely, taking care of your health with exercise and healthy eating, and being generous with others are some ways to please Jehovah. (See paragraph 14.)

15. How does Jehovah expect us to treat others?

Jehovah expects us to treat others with an attitude of kindness and humility, just as He does with us.

In Matthew 5:45, we see that Jehovah extends his kindness to both the righteous and the unrighteous, and invites us to follow his example.

In Titus 3:2 we are admonished not to speak evil of anyone, not to be contentious, and to be gentle with everyone. This is a way of showing the peace and harmony that Jehovah desires for all.

Furthermore, in 2 Timothy 2:23-25 ​​we learn that we should not be arrogant toward those who do not share our beliefs; rather, we should be patient, humble, and kind, correcting others with love and without pride.

If we apply these principles, we will not only reflect Jehovah's goodness, but we will also draw closer to Him and strengthen our relationship with Him.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

Jehovah expects us to treat others with kindness, patience, and respect, just as He treats us. We should avoid conflict and not speak ill of others, and always be gentle, following Jehovah's example.

WHEN WE ARE WEAK WE CAN ALSO GET CLOSER TO GOD

16. How did the writer of Psalm 73 feel at a certain point in his life?

The writer of Psalm 73 felt, at one point in his life, so overwhelmed by his negative thoughts that he almost lost his spiritual balance.

He was confused and hurt, especially at the apparent prosperity of the wicked. This perception caused him bitterness and led him to irrational thinking, as he himself acknowledged.

He felt distant from God and even unworthy of his love, but his experience teaches us that Jehovah understands our human emotions and does not walk away from us when we struggle internally.

By seeking Jehovah, Asaph regained spiritual clarity, which encourages us to do the same when we feel we are failing or that Jehovah is far away.

17. a) What did the psalmist apparently do when he hit rock bottom?

When the psalmist hit rock bottom, he apparently realized he needed to draw closer to Jehovah. Although he felt discouraged and confused at times, he didn't give up. Instead of turning away, he recognized his need for divine guidance and reaffirmed his closeness to God.

He expressed this by saying: “But now I am always with you; you hold my right hand, you guide me with your counsel, and later you will bring me to glory.” This reaction shows that, in his most difficult moment, he clung tightly to Jehovah and sought his guidance.

17. b) What can we learn from what happened to him? (See also the pictures.)

From what happened to the psalmist, we learn that Jehovah does not abandon us when we go through moments of weakness or discouragement, and that those are precisely the moments when we most need to seek him.

As Psalms 94:18 and 103:13, 14 emphasize, God understands our human condition, and if we make mistakes or temporarily stray, we can always return to Him with the assurance that He is willing to forgive. We also learn that clinging to Jehovah as our rock helps us regain spiritual stability.

ILLUSTRATION

Series of images: 1. A brother who feels discouraged is sitting on a bed. 2. Later, the brother is seen smiling as he arrives at the Kingdom Hall and is greeted by a married couple.

When we are spiritually weak, we should draw closer to Jehovah by devoting more time to our worship. (See paragraph 17.)

LET US DRAW CLOSER TO GOD FOREVER

18. Why is there no limit to our approach to Jehovah?

There are no limits to drawing near to Jehovah because His wisdom, knowledge, and ways are unsearchable, as Romans 11:33 says. This means we will never fully know Him and there will always be more to learn about His personality, His purposes, and His ways. As we get to know Him better, we also deepen our relationship with Him, and that process is endless.

19. What assurance do these Psalms give us?

The cited psalms, Psalm 79:13 and Psalm 73:26, assure us that if we continue to draw near to Jehovah, He will bless us for all eternity.

They assure us that Jehovah is like a firm rock on which we can lean and that we can always count on His love and support as our God and Shepherd. This strengthens our confidence that our relationship with Him can be eternal and filled with gratitude.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

Why should we meditate on the benefits of drawing close to Jehovah?

Because meditating on these benefits motivates us to strengthen our friendship with Him and to continue striving to stay close to our loving Heavenly Father.

What are the benefits of drawing closer to God?

It gives us a full and meaningful life, a firm hope for the future, forgiveness for our sins, inner peace, and the satisfaction of bringing joy to Jehovah's heart.

What should we do to get closer to God?

Continue studying the Bible, strengthen our faith in His love, and avoid what He hates, while also being careful about our actions and how we treat others.