Let us examine the Scriptures every day
Saturday, October 3, 2026
He does not slander with his tongue (Psalm 15:3).
The psalmist specifically mentions slander. What is slander? Generally speaking, it is a false accusation that can damage someone’s reputation. Psalm 15:3 also reminds us that Jehovah’s guest “does nothing wrong to his neighbor and does not defile the reputation of his friends” (Psalm 15:1). How might we defile the reputation of our friends? Unintentionally, we could slander someone by saying negative things about them.
Consider the following situations: (1) a sister leaves the full-time service, (2) a married couple leaves Bethel, or (3) it is announced that a brother is no longer an elder or a ministerial servant. Should we speculate about the reasons for these changes and share our opinion with others? We may not know all the details. And let us remember that a guest in Jehovah’s tent “does nothing wrong to his neighbor and does not defile the reputation of his friends.” w24.06 11, 12 pars. 11-13
How does Jehovah's guest know if someone is "despicable" and should be rejected?
Psalm 15:4 says that a friend of Jehovah “rejects everyone who is despicable.” But how do we know if someone is “despicable”? Since we are imperfect, we cannot rely on our own judgment. Why? Because, based on their personality, some people simply appeal to us, while others irritate us. So we should reject only those whom Jehovah considers despicable (1 Cor. 5:11). These include those who practice sin and do not repent, those who treat our faith and beliefs with disrespect, and those who try to damage our friendship with Jehovah (Prov. 13:20).
What is one way to honor “those who fear Jehovah”?
On the other hand, Psalm 15:4 tells us to honor “those who fear Jehovah.” Therefore, we look for ways to show kindness and respect to God’s friends (Rom. 12:10). What is one way to do this? Psalm 15:4 says that the guest in Jehovah’s tent “does not fail to keep his promise even if it comes at a loss.” If we were to break our promises, we could hurt others (Matt. 5:37). For example, Jehovah expects his guests to keep their marriage vows. He also wants parents to strive to keep the promises they make to their children. Because we love God and our neighbor, we will do our best to keep our word.
In what other ways do we honor Jehovah's friends?
Another way to honor God’s friends is by being hospitable and generous (Rom. 12:13). When we include our brothers and sisters in our leisure time, our bonds of friendship with them and with Jehovah are strengthened. Moreover, by being hospitable, we are imitating Jehovah.
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