Watchtower Study, Let Us Pay Close Attention to How We Listen. Week of August 31 to September 6, 2026, Comments and Responses.

Watchtower Study, Let Us Pay Close Attention to How We Listen. August 31-September 6, 2026, Comments and Responses.

“Pay close attention to how you listen” (LUKE 8:18).

1, 2. a) What does Jehovah give us today? (Psalm 23:1, 2, 5).

Today, Jehovah provides us with abundant spiritual food. One way in which Jehovah feeds us spiritually is through congregation meetings. At these meetings, we receive teachings and reminders that we need, even if we are “well established in the truth.”

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Jehovah provides us in various ways with everything we need to stay spiritually strong. For example, through his Word, the Bible, and congregation meetings. He is like a loving father who guides, feeds, and cares for us, and assures us that we are not alone.

We can liken him to a shepherd who cares for his sheep and gives them everything they need for a healthy life. Similarly, Jehovah is the Great Shepherd, who gives us everything we need to be happy and to endure the difficulties of this system.

Jehovah is a generous Shepherd, as Psalm 23:5 says: “My cup is overflowing.” Therefore, he gives us spiritual food in abundance and variety.

As the paragraph mentions, we are also given information we already know. It is important to value this information because, even if we are well established in the truth, we need these reminders.

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

In this article we will analyze who is actually teaching us when we attend meetings, why we need to pay attention, what speakers can do to help us be attentive, and what suggestions will help us listen better.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

We'll analyze who is actually teaching us when we attend meetings. We'll also see why we need to pay attention and what speakers can do to help us be more attentive. In addition, we'll look at some suggestions that will help us listen much better.

WHO IS REALLY SPEAKING TO US?

3. How does Jehovah speak to us, and how do his servants use his Word?

Jehovah speaks to us through his Word, the Bible. That is why Jesus used God’s Word so skillfully that some asked: “How does this man know so much about the Scriptures, since he has not studied in schools?” Similarly, some first-century Christians, such as Paul and Apollos, made extensive use of God’s Word in their teaching.

Today, Jehovah's Witnesses also make the Bible the basis of our teaching in articles, talks, programs, and videos. At meetings, those who speak not only read from the Bible but also show how to apply its counsel.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Jehovah communicates his words to us through the Bible. Jesus, his only-begotten Son, always used his Father's Word and did so with such skill that those who knew him were amazed and said: “How does he know so much if he hasn't studied it?”

At a meeting, we might have a Bible talk given by someone very young. We might wonder, “How can there be so much wisdom in his comments?” Because his comments are based on God’s Word. As Luke 24:32 says, “our hearts burn within us” when we see that this wisdom comes from Jehovah.

By saying in 2 Timothy 3:16 that “all Scripture is inspired by God,” Paul reminds Timothy and all Christians today that we must rely on the wisdom of God’s Word and always keep it in mind in everything we do.

Acts 18:24, 28 speaks of Apollos, an eloquent man who was well-versed in the Scriptures. It says that he resolutely and clearly demonstrated that Jesus was the Christ.

It's interesting that when people listened to Jesus, one of the things that struck them was that he spoke with authority. Since Jesus was a carpenter, he didn't have the same authority as the Pharisees or the scribes. So where did Jesus' authority come from? It came from his skillful use of the Scriptures and the way he spoke.

Jehovah speaks to us through the Bible, our publications, and our meetings. The way we preach is also based on the Bible. That is our authority: the Bible's message gives us the basis for speaking to people.

We know that today the Bible is the foundation of our articles, outlines, JW Broadcasting programs, and videos. This often impresses people who attend our first meeting, assembly, or other event by seeing us use the Bible constantly. And that makes sense, because it's our basis for teaching, preaching, and building ourselves up spiritually.

On JW Broadcasting programs, we know that there are talks based on God's Word and that short morning worship talks are often also presented. Everything is based on the Bible, so it's also part of our spiritual instruction.

4. What meaning do the words hear and listen convey?

In the Bible, the words “hear” and “listen” are frequently used in the sense of obeying. Therefore, when we pay attention to what Jehovah teaches us at the meetings, we gain a better understanding of his will and find it easier to obey him and apply what he teaches us through the meetings.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The words “hear” and “listen” are frequently used in the Bible in the sense of obeying. Therefore, we are sure that Jehovah is pleased to see that we pay attention to what he tells us at the meetings and put it into practice.

Hearing is a physical ability we use with our ears, but listening involves paying attention and understanding what is being said. Soldiers need to hear and listen carefully to achieve good results and accomplish their objective in battle. Similarly, we must pay close attention to what we hear to better understand what we are fighting for, maintain our spiritual balance, and know how we can best help others.

Proverbs 27:11 tells us to be wise and make Jehovah’s heart glad. We could not be wise if we did not pay attention at the meetings and know what Jehovah expects of us. That is why it is so important to understand these words and listen to Jehovah.

WHY DO WE NEED TO LISTEN CAREFULLY IN MEETINGS?

5. What will love for Jehovah move us to do? (John 4:23, 24; 1 John 5:3).

Love for Jehovah will move us to want to listen to him, obey him, and worship him in the way that pleases him. The more we learn about Jehovah, the more we will love him, and that love will motivate us to do what he asks of us.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Such great love will make us want to listen to him, obey him, and worship him in the way he likes. At John 4:23, 24, we are encouraged to worship Jehovah with spirit and truth. This way of worshiping him involves following the guidance of the holy spirit and basing our beliefs on the teachings of the Bible.

When we do something out of obligation or because we have no other choice, we do it reluctantly. But the paragraph says it's a desire. We desire to do it because we love Jehovah.

Love for Jehovah will help us to avoid saying, “I already know this, I’ve already learned this, why would I want to hear the same thing again?” no matter how long we have been serving him. Rather, we will be able to learn something new each time if we pay attention and are attentive to what the brother on the platform wants to convey.

If we listen carefully to Jehovah’s reminders, we will strengthen what we have learned and love Jehovah more fully. This will undoubtedly benefit not only us but also the entire congregation.

6. What are we taught in the meetings?

At the meetings, Jehovah teaches us how to help our brothers and sisters and those who do not yet know him. Therefore, if we find it difficult to start conversations naturally, we can pay close attention to how the brothers and sisters do so in their contributions during the weekday meeting. Also, the brochureMaking disciples: a work of loveIt is a very useful tool for developing the qualities we need for preaching.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

At the meetings, Jehovah teaches us practical ways to help our brothers and sisters and those who do not yet know him. We also apply the booklet Making Disciples: A Work of Love every week, which equips us to show genuine love in the ministry and in the preaching work.

The paragraph mentions the midweek meetings, and it's very interesting that one part of the meeting is called “Become Better Teachers.” Certainly, learning to teach the truth to others isn't just an intellectual exercise, like relating a Bible idea and explaining it to someone so they can understand it. We also learn how to listen, how to spark interest, and how to consider what interests the person. We learn so much at the midweek meetings so that we can obey Jehovah and worship him as he deserves.

Matthew 22:39 mentions the importance, even the vital importance, of loving people. It says that it is the second commandment. If we want to serve Jehovah fully and receive his approval, we need to learn to love people.

The paragraph mentions that the booklet Making Disciples: A Work of Love is a tool that helps us develop qualities. If we read it, it might seem basic, but it's not, because it teaches us to develop inner qualities that allow us to put what we learn into practice and demonstrate sincere love that comes from the heart.

7. Why is it vital that we continue to listen to Jehovah?

Because we love life. Listening to Jehovah and obeying what he tells us in his Word helps us to be happy now and allows us to maintain the hope of living forever. Also, by paying attention at the meetings, we receive the encouragement we need to patiently await the arrival of the new world. It is especially important to do this now because we are living in the last days and must remain spiritually alert.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Deuteronomy 32:44-47 mentions how Moses emphasized the importance of taking seriously all the warnings he had given them in the name of Jehovah and everything Jehovah told them. They even had to be attentive so they could pass them on to their children. He then stressed that these words were not empty words, but that their lives depended on their obedience.

We must understand that we are living in the end times. Therefore, it is best to prepare ourselves now to listen to any new instructions we may receive, apply sound advice, and love our brothers and sisters. For critical and difficult times are approaching, and if we are prepared, it will be easier for us to endure.

If we pay attention at the meetings, it will strengthen us. This will help us to endure, as Romans 8:25 says, while we patiently wait for the fulfillment of that hope which has not yet been realized and which we have not yet seen.

As Revelation 1:3, Part B says: “Blessed are those who hear and obey what is written in it, in the Bible, because the appointed time is near.”

Matthew 24:42-44 tells us that it is vital to listen and pay attention in meetings, because in this way we can receive more spiritual nourishment. We do not know when the end will come, so, as the passage says, we must always be vigilant, because we do not know the day or the hour. Therefore, especially in the times we are living in, it is important that we be spiritually strong to face what comes next.

We need to listen carefully in meetings because we are living in the last days and we need to stay spiritually alert.

HOW TO HELP OTHERS BE AWARE?

8. Why should the brothers continue to improve the quality of their public speaking?

Because a well-prepared, Bible-centered talk can have a powerful impact. It can motivate people to learn the truth and help our brothers and sisters remain faithful. Therefore, those who speak at meetings should continue to improve their teaching and always remember the effect their words can have.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because of the influence or impact it can have on those who listen. The paragraph mentions that, even if the brothers have been speaking or doing assignments for a long time, they must always be mindful of improving, becoming more practical, and more effective. There are brothers and new people whose hearts may be touched by one of the talks in such a way that it inspires them to dedicate their lives to God.

A very interesting idea is that the Sermon on the Mount impacted so many people that its teachings remained in their minds and stayed with them throughout their lives. Similarly, if we improve the quality of our public speaking, perhaps we can achieve the same.

Not only the brothers who speak on the platform, but also those of us who comment at the meetings, need to prepare our remarks very well, because they can have a significant impact on the brothers. Perhaps we can offer advice that someone has been waiting for, advice that will help them improve.

In the previous paragraph, we saw that attending meetings is vital because we receive help to endure. Therefore, when we attend meetings, let us prepare ourselves well to help our brothers and sisters.

Titus 1:9 says: “He must hold fast to the faithful word in regard to his art of teaching.” It is important to keep in mind the impact that what a speaker says can have. Therefore, he must have a strong sense of commitment to what he is doing, because Jehovah intends to teach us through them.

The speaker must always remember to be as faithful as possible to Jehovah's teachings and not to convey his own ideas. In this way, we allow Jehovah to teach us directly through his Word.

The advice at 2 Timothy 4:2 is to reprove, rebuke, and counsel earnestly. All of this must be done with urgency, because it is important. This is similar to the work of a surgeon, who must focus all his attention on what he is doing. In the same way, if we approach our assignments or our roles in the meeting with that same urgency and the same importance of sharing the spiritual food that comes from Jehovah, we will surely do a much better job.

The brothers must continue to improve because, like in a restaurant where customers are discerning, the brothers in the congregation can tell the difference between a well-prepared teaching and one that is not. Therefore, even if we have been giving talks for many years, we must constantly examine ourselves and look for ways to improve our teaching so that we can always offer good spiritual nourishment.

9. Why is it important that speeches are easy to follow?

Because if we present the information in a complicated way, the audience may become distracted and lose track of the message. A clear structure helps the brothers easily follow the main ideas and better understand the information. To achieve this, the main points should be presented from the beginning, developed one by one, and briefly reviewed in the conclusion.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because if we don't, the audience may become distracted and lose track of the speech and the information. Therefore, it is important for the speaker to have a good structure so that the brothers and sisters can easily follow the main ideas and better understand the information.

The goal isn't to create a hodgepodge of information, but rather to clearly define the main points from the outset. When transitioning from one point to another, this should be clearly indicated so the audience knows the topic is being addressed, and finally, the key points should be briefly revisited in the conclusion.

10. Why is it important to get excited about information?

Because when we're excited about the information we're going to present, we can convey it enthusiastically and naturally. If we meditate on the biblical texts and the assigned material, we'll find points that inspire us, and that enthusiasm can motivate others and help them remember the information better.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because it shows when we talk about something that excites us, something we love. We do it with an enthusiasm and joy that are contagious. And that's what a brother from the United States explains: when he was young, he heard a brother speak who was enthusiastic about the information, and he never forgot it.

We can compare it to watching a football match: it's very different listening to some commentators than others. If they truly feel the game and are passionate about it, they manage to make us feel it too. In the same way, when a speaker is moved, their words reach not only our brain, but also our heart.

In the ministry, it's also very noticeable when someone is moved by the information they're sharing. When we go out in the ministry with an older pioneer who has been reading the same scripture about Bible hope for many years, you can see how it comes from her heart as she reads it. Without a doubt, that touches the person much more deeply.

In Acts 4:20 we see the example of the apostles, who had been with Jesus and who, even under threat, said, “We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” So, when we find things that excite us, we will want to share them with others.

During preparation, it is essential to stick to the points and the time allotted, but also to ensure the information is practical. If a point deals with preaching, instead of stating it literally, it is helpful to reflect on how it can benefit the local congregation, what challenges it faces, and how we can apply it. In this way, we personalize the message and internalize it. Ultimately, drawing a practical application helps us identify with the idea and discuss it from the heart.

Proverbs 2:4, 5 compares these teachings to hidden treasures. And it's true: the topics we discuss are so profound and beautiful, they draw us so close to Jehovah and make us so happy, that we should definitely share the emotion we feel.

Instead of settling for the basics, for the obvious, let's try to meditate, study and delve deeper until the subject excites us.

11. Why is it good to give practical and specific suggestions in speeches? (1 Timothy 4:13-16).

Because in this way we can help the audience apply biblical information to their daily lives. Instead of giving general advice, we should consider their needs and offer specific suggestions based on Scripture, just as Paul did with Timothy. This makes the teaching more useful and encourages the brothers and sisters to put it into practice.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because, if we look at the advice Paul gave Timothy, he was very specific. He mentions that Timothy should continue to apply himself to public reading, counseling, and teaching. So, when the speaker speaks in such a specific way and gives this practical advice, it's easier for the audience to retain it and put it into practice.

When we hear about a topic we don't think we need, we're not as attentive as when we hear about something we do need. So, when the speaker highlights points that could be useful to us, it will help us focus more on the speech.

In 1 Timothy 4:14-16 it says, “Do not neglect the gift you have received.” Then it also says, “Reflect on these things; devote yourself to them.” These are pieces of advice that both the speakers and the sisters participating on the platform need to meditate on, because they are very helpful for improving their teaching and continuing to grow.

Usually, when we see that a speaker or someone making a comment has taken the time to think about what they're saying, it's like taking the leap from theory to practice. Sometimes, when we hear theory, we tune out because we've heard it so many times. But when someone shares a personal thought they've taken time to reflect on, it's easy to connect and feel like we want to apply that insight.

12. Why is it important to speak naturally when giving a speech?

Because speaking naturally helps the audience concentrate and benefit more from the information. Furthermore, when we speak sincerely and from the heart, we can convey our interest in the topic and in those listening, making the speech more interesting, motivating, and memorable.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This is very important because it allows the speaker to convey their feelings about the topic, and the listeners will feel what is being discussed in their hearts. Therefore, when done this way, the speech comes alive and becomes more interesting and motivating for the audience.

Often, when we give a talk or have a part on the platform, the brothers already know us. So, if we're reading, they know we're reading. But when we're natural, we achieve what the paragraph says: the brothers can concentrate and benefit more, because they know what we're like when we're not giving a talk.

The advice given at the beginning of the paragraph is that it would be beneficial for anyone preparing a speech to practice it aloud at home, and even better, to do so in front of a mirror. This allows them to hear themselves and see their facial expressions. In this way, when they later deliver the speech, they will have greater skill and confidence in conveying the information they have prepared.

Focusing on the last sentence of the paragraph: if we speak from the heart, we will motivate hearts. But how do we speak from the heart? Let us remember that what comes out of our mouths is what is in our hearts, figuratively speaking. For example, there are brothers and sisters who set such a good example that we want to learn from them and, in this way, become like them to give glory to Jehovah.

A speech isn't like delivering the news; it's like having a face-to-face conversation. The audience needs to feel like you're speaking directly to each of them, and to achieve this, you must express yourself naturally and from the heart. The key is not to focus so much on how you look or how you speak, but on how valuable the information is to those listening. When you focus on the benefit the audience will receive, you speak from the heart and manage to convey genuine love in what you say.

13. If we have a speech to give, why should we ask experienced speakers for advice? (See also the image.)

Because they can help us identify our "blind spots"—aspects we ourselves may not perceive. Their advice can help us improve the clarity and practicality of how we present information. In this way, we can become better speakers and teachers, and help those who listen to us benefit more from the teachings of the Bible.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because, as Proverbs 1:5 says, the wise listen, and the discerning accept expert guidance. Therefore, those brothers and sisters who are more prepared, who have been around longer, and who have more experience can tell us where we can improve. Sometimes it's good for them to let us know, because then we can put it into practice and continue to improve.

Every athlete wants a good coach because, from an outside perspective, they can help them see where they can improve and, moreover, they have a lot of experience. The same is true for us: sometimes we don't see what we need to improve on, but someone from the outside can help us see it.

Sometimes we feel a little scared or uncomfortable when we receive advice and are told how we can improve. But, as you can see in the picture, the atmosphere in which this happens is very positive. What motivates us to listen in the meetings is love, and the same is true for the brother who helps us: he is also motivated by love.

Looking at the picture, it appears that the two brothers went to the Kingdom Hall to rehearse, because the lectern is visible. This shows us that the experienced speaker not only helps with the presentation and how to develop the information, but also advises on posture and any other aspects of the speech and presentation that could be improved. This can even help the brother become familiar with the venue.

In the picture, we can see how valuable this brother is as he accompanies the young man. He's holding a copy of the outline and a pen, jotting down ideas as they come to mind so as not to interrupt him and to be able to discuss them later. It's wonderful to have brothers like this, so willing and capable, who offer to help and then, in a very practical way, remind the young man of the areas where he can improve.

In the image, we see the Bible open as the two brothers rehearse. Again, this highlights the importance of basing our teaching on the Bible. If the Bible is our primary foundation for teaching, then when we read biblical texts, we also have the responsibility to read them correctly in order to faithfully convey what the Bible says.

The paragraph mentions that we want to improve as speakers and teachers. Therefore, teachers also need to improve in some areas. Sometimes, when they are helping other brothers and sisters, they can also improve their teaching methods.

The paragraph doesn't mention whether you're an experienced or a novice speaker. This is an interesting detail because, ultimately, no matter how many years we've been speaking, we all need to improve. But one very important thing is that by asking others for advice and being open to their feedback, we cultivate valuable qualities like humility and modesty.

Ultimately, what we project through our platform is who we are. So, it's not just about knowing how to give a good speech, but also about cultivating qualities and being approachable, humble, and modest. That's also very important.

The asterisk also leads us to other tools we have to prepare ourselves, such as "Be Better Teachers" and the book Benefit from the Theocratic Ministry School, which is fabulous because it mentions all facets of ministry and how we can improve.

We can help others to be attentive by preparing well, paying attention to the details to capture the audience's attention, making what we say practical and heartfelt, so that they will always remember it.

ILLUSTRATION

A brother is practicing his talk in the Kingdom Hall in front of an experienced brother, who is taking notes.

Ask an experienced speaker to help you become a better teacher. (See paragraph 13.)

WHAT WILL HELP US LISTEN CAREFULLY?

14. Why should we copy the attitude of the writer of Psalm 119? (Psalm 119:24, 111, 167).

Because we need to value and appreciate Jehovah’s reminders, especially in dealing with the problems of these “critical times hard to bear.” Even if we hear information we already know, we should view it as an opportunity to strengthen our spirituality and remember the things Jehovah wants to teach us. In that way, we imitate the good attitude of the writer of Psalm 119, who was deeply grateful for Jehovah’s reminders.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Jehovah sees who appreciates his reminders. We should be grateful for the assignments our brothers have lovingly prepared, showing respect for Jehovah’s commandments. In this way, we demonstrate how much we value what Jehovah teaches us, as the Psalm writer says.

As the paragraph states, it's true that we hear the same topics or analyze the same information multiple times. As the Psalm says, these are reminders. But when we love and value them, we won't view them negatively, but positively.

15. What will help us to continue to value the spiritual food we receive at meetings?

It will help us to remember that spiritual food comes from Jehovah and that the organization prepares it with great care. Even if information we already know is sometimes repeated, we should not grow weary of it or cease to appreciate it. Rather, we should remember that what we learn gives us the wisdom we need to live forever.

We don't want to end up like the Israelites, who, eating manna day after day, grew weary and lost their appreciation for it. We want to value the spiritual food we receive and, even if it's repeated, not grow tired of it or stop appreciating it.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

We must remember that information always comes from Jehovah, so we do not want to imitate those Israelites who, in time, grew tired of eating the manna that Jehovah provided and stopped appreciating it. Therefore, let us not make the same mistake: even if the information is repeated, let us not cease to appreciate the spiritual food we receive at the meetings.

John 17:3 says: “This means everlasting life: to come to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you sent forth.” This helps us understand that even if the information we learn at the meetings is repeated, it will always be very beneficial for our lives. Jehovah wants us to never forget what he teaches us and to always keep his Word in mind.

When Jehovah gave the Israelites manna, he gave them something pleasant. Today, when we watch the programs or attend our meetings, we also receive very pleasant spiritual food, because it is certainly very well prepared. We should not tire of it, even though we receive it often and it may be reminders we have heard before. We certainly need it, not only as spiritual food for our lives, but also to enjoy it, because it is truly worthwhile.

Sometimes we might fall into a routine and forget things. So, if we are reminded of them, it is surely for our benefit and because we need them. Therefore, let us not be like the Israelites, who fell into a routine and despised what Jehovah offered them.

16. What has helped some Witnesses who have served Jehovah for many years to pay attention during meetings? (See also the box “Suggestions for Listening Attentively.”)

Several practical suggestions have helped them:

Prepare well before meetings, because it makes it easier for them to concentrate and participate.

Listen to the same topics with an open attitude, looking for new points of view and things to learn.

Focus on what the Bible teaches, instead of paying too much attention to the quality of the speaker.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Sister Ashley points out that preparation is very important. She says that if she doesn't prepare, it's very difficult for her to speak and she also gets distracted. And it's true: when you prepare and have points to make, you're much more attentive to the meeting. It's also very important that we pay attention to others' comments when we want to speak, so we don't repeat ourselves and can get more out of the information.

One suggestion is to avoid sitting in the back rows, where you might be more likely to lose focus or become distracted, and instead sit as far forward as possible. This way, you can concentrate on both the speaker and the information.

As the introduction states at the beginning, these are not simply suggestions for us to try and see if they work for us, but suggestions that have been tested and experimented with in the case of many brothers, and that have really given good results in staying alert.

We can ask Jehovah to help us concentrate. We should recognize that concentrating and listening attentively at meetings is also a form of worship.

Something that can also help us is having the goal of congratulating or thanking someone who has participated for something specific, because, if we have that goal, then we will have to listen carefully.

17. What else can you do to concentrate in meetings? (See also the image.)

We can follow several practical recommendations: eat something light before the meeting, arrive on time, silence electronic devices, and avoid distractions. We can also visualize the points that will be discussed, focus on the speaker, take brief notes, and think about key biblical texts and how they relate to one another.

In addition, we can ask ourselves how we can apply the information to help someone in the congregation or territory. Before an assembly, it is helpful to review the day’s theme, the titles of the talks, and the main scriptures. And when the program begins, we can prepare our hearts by sitting quietly and paying attention to the introductions and music videos.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

From the moment we decide to attend the meeting, we can do a few things to prepare ourselves mentally and enjoy it. For example, point one suggests that if we eat something beforehand, it shouldn't be anything too heavy, so we don't get sleepy during the meeting.

Another point is that, when we are in meetings, we can listen quite attentively to the biblical texts that we might be able to use, not only to help ourselves, but also to help people in preaching and even our own brothers and sisters.

Point 10 addresses the platform when reminders for the assembly are posted. This point is relevant because we must remember that the preludes and music videos are already part of the assembly program. Therefore, we are always asked to listen to them while seated and attentively, so we can make the most of the meeting.

One thing we can do is stay focused on the speaker, because we learn more from them each time. It's also good to note down the good comments and suggestions they make, so we can use them later in our preaching, in our territory, and also in our congregation.

Our devices are designed to capture our full attention, and sometimes we use them during meetings. That's why we need to put them in a mode that helps us avoid distractions.

ILLUSTRATION

A brother is writing a text message to a friend during the Watchtower Study.

Let us not allow electronic devices to distract us; let us continue to listen attentively to Jehovah’s reminders. (See paragraph 17.)

LET US KEEP LISTENING TO JEHOVAH

18. Why should we continue to listen carefully in meetings?

Because by listening attentively, we allow Jehovah to guide us along “paths of righteousness” and help us to stay on the right path. Therefore, we should pay attention to how we listen and apply what we learn at the meetings. If we listen to Jehovah, we will be happy now and have the hope of enjoying everlasting life in the future.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

If we listen carefully at the meetings, we will allow Jehovah to guide us on the right path and avoid straying. Furthermore, we will be able to apply all the counsel Jehovah gives us through the meetings. Thus, if we listen attentively, we will be happy now and have the hope of living forever in the future.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

Why do we need to listen carefully in meetings?

We need to listen carefully for three main reasons:

Because we love Jehovah:The more we learn about him, the more we love him. That love compels us to listen to him, obey him, and worship him in the way that pleases him.

Because we love people:At the meetings, Jehovah teaches us how to help our brothers and sisters and those who do not yet know him. We can learn by observing how other brothers and sisters put into practice what is taught.

Because we love life:Obeying Jehovah’s instructions helps us to be happy now and allows us to maintain the hope of living forever. In addition, the meetings give us the encouragement we need to endure while we wait for the new world and help us to stay spiritually alert.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Because in that way we show love for Jehovah. And that love moves us to listen to him, to obey him, and to worship him in the way that pleases him.

Because we love people, and Jehovah teaches us how to treat them, as well as our brothers and sisters. Also, because we love life. So, by paying attention at the meetings, we receive encouragement and endurance until the new world arrives.

What can speakers do to help us stay attentive in meetings?

Speakers can help us in the following ways:

Prepare speeches with a clear structure, stating the main points from the beginning, developing them one by one, and briefly reviewing them at the end.

Be moved by the information, meditating on biblical texts to convey the content with enthusiasm and make the speech more interesting and motivating.

Consider the needs of the audience and offer practical and specific suggestions that help put what has been learned into practice.

Speak naturally and sincerely, instead of simply reading a speech word for word. This will make it easier for the audience to concentrate and benefit from the information.

Seek advice from experienced speakers to identify your "blind spots" and improve as a teacher. In this way, they can help you get more out of the Bible's teachings.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

They can ask Jehovah for help, prepare thoroughly, and consider the audience they will be helping. At 2 Timothy 4:2, we find counsel to cultivate the art of teaching. For this, we can also ask an experienced speaker for assistance.

What will help us listen attentively?

It will help us to deepen our appreciation for Jehovah’s reminders and to remember that we need them to cope with the problems of these difficult times. Even when we hear information we already know, we can imitate the attitude of the writer of Psalm 119 and be grateful for Jehovah’s reminders.

It will also help us to prepare for meetings, listen to the same topics while looking for new points of view, and focus primarily on what the Bible teaches, rather than paying too much attention to the speaker's ability.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

First, we should appreciate the effort the brother or sister has put into preparing and presenting. Then, we can reflect on what we have learned and apply it in our preaching or when speaking with others.

The article also mentioned some practical suggestions, such as sitting in the front, taking notes, paying attention to the speaker to congratulate them on their good preparation, arriving early to the meeting, and putting our devices on silent.