09/06/2024
' (1)
*WATCHTOWER PRESENTATION*
STUDY ARTICLE 26
SONG 8 Jehovah Is Our Refuge
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Make Jehovah Your Rock“There is no rock like our God.”—1 SAM. 2:2.
FOCUS Learn why Jehovah is referred to as a rock and how we can imitate his rock like qualities.
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1. To what does David compare Jehovah, as recorded at Psalm 18:46?
David lived in a very unstable world, where things could happen at any moment that would completely change his life. He knew that he could ask Jehovah for help, who was always there to help and support him. That's why he called him my Rock.
2. What will we see in this article?
We will see why the Bible says that Jehovah is like a Rock and what this comparison teaches us. We will also look at several ways to imitate his qualities.
WHY IT IS SAID THAT JEHOVAH IS LIKE A ROCK
3. How does the Bible use the word rock? (See image.)
Jehovah is compared to a Rock to help us understand some of his qualities. Thus, in many Bible passages, when Jehovah's servants praise him for his wonderful qualities, they describe him as a Rock.
The first text in which Jehovah is said to be the Rock is Deuteronomy 32:4.
In 1 Samuel 2:2, Hannah said that there is no Rock like our God.
In Habakkuk 1:12 Jehovah is also called my rock, the writer of Psalm 73 described him using the expression The Rock of my heart and Jehovah himself called himself a rock.
In Isaiah 44:8, all of these verses mention qualities of Jehovah that make his servants feel secure and confident.
ILLUSTRATION
A couple and their daughter looking at a huge mountain in front of them. God's servants see Jehovah as a rock that makes them feel safe and confident. (See paragraph 3.)
4. Why can we say that Jehovah is a refuge? (Psalm 94:22)
Saying that Jehovah is a refuge, because just as a person can take shelter in a cave or under a large rock during a dangerous storm, when we face very difficult situations in life, we can take refuge in Jehovah, he protects us and prevents us from suffering any permanent harm, and he has promised that in the future he will eliminate everything that makes us suffer or robs us of peace.
5. What can we do to take refuge in Jehovah?
What we can do is pray, when we do, we receive the peace of God, which protects our hearts and minds, just as Brother Artiom experienced, when we face difficult situations and pray to Jehovah asking for inner peace and wisdom, he protects us like an unbreakable wall.
6. Why can we always trust in Jehovah? (Isaiah 26:3, 4)
We can always trust in Jehovah, because he is the Eternal Rock, which means that he is always there to help us and never moves from his place. He will also always be alive to fulfill his promises, listen to our prayers, and give us the support we need.
We also trust him because he is loyal to those who serve him and will never forget what we do, always rewarding us.
7. How does trusting in Jehovah benefit us? (See also image.)
It benefits us because it helps us face difficult moments and strengthens our trust in Him. Every time we see how He helps us, this prepares us better to face tests that we could not overcome without His help.
The example of Brother Vladimir illustrates this. He says that the stage of his life in which he felt closest to God was the one he spent in the detention center. There he learned to trust Jehovah more, because he was completely alone and could do nothing to change the situation.
ILLUSTRATION
A brother who is in prison holds a Bible in his hands and looks out the window. We make Jehovah our Rock when we trust in him completely. (See paragraph 7.)
8. a) Why can we say that Jehovah is stable?
Because His personality and purpose never change no matter what happens or what others do. An example of this is when Adam and Eve rebelled, yet Jehovah did not change His loving and just personality nor His purpose for humanity and the earth.
8. b) How does it benefit us to see Jehovah as our Rock? (Psalm 62:6, 7).
It is beneficial because it gives us the confidence that He will always help us when we suffer adversity, and He will fulfill everything He has promised us, as indicated in Psalm 62 verses 6 and 7.
9. What do you learn from Tatiana’s experience?
From Tatiana's experience we learn that keeping Jehovah's qualities and purpose in mind can help us stay calm and emotionally stable even in very difficult situations. Tatiana remembered that everything that was happening to her had to do with her love for Jehovah and her desire to please him. This helped her regain emotional strength and not focus too much on herself. So focusing on Jehovah and his purpose can be key to facing adversity with serenity.
10. How can you make Jehovah your Rock from now on?
I can make Jehovah my rock by reading stories from the Bible, experiences of brothers of our days and meditating on them. I can also observe how Jehovah has always shown himself to be like a rock for his servants, since this will help me to be convinced that he will always give me what I need to endure and be faithful to him.
LET US IMITATE THE QUALITIES OF JEHOVAH
11. Why is it good for us to imitate Jehovah’s qualities? (See also the box “A Goal for Younger Brothers.”)
We should imitate Jehovah's qualities, because by doing so we will be able to help the brothers in the congregation. For example, Jesus called Simon Cephas, which means piece of rock, to indicate that he would be a source of comfort and stability in the congregation. The elders in the Bible are compared to the shadow of an immense rock, because they protect the brothers, but we can all contribute to the stability of the congregation if we imitate Jehovah's qualities.
As for the young men, it is good for them to imitate Jehovah's qualities, for in this way he will cultivate the qualities necessary to serve as elders in the future, possibly soon after reaching 20 years of age. In this way they will be like rocks and will bring stability and firmness to the congregation.
It is good for young people to strive to imitate Jehovah's qualities so that they too may become a refuge for their brothers. To develop these qualities, they should talk with others at meetings and show interest in their older brothers. They also do this by helping others feel welcome in the congregation, by striving to be trustworthy, by volunteering, by following instructions, and by showing responsibility.
Young people also demonstrate that they are striving to imitate Jehovah's qualities to become stable and reliable people in the congregation by reading the Bible daily, making decisions based on Bible principles, and doing everything necessary to continually strengthen their faith.
ILLUSTRATION
At the Kingdom Hall, an elder teaches a young brother how to change batteries in wireless microphones.
12. What can we do to be a refuge?
We can offer literal shelter in our homes to brothers and sisters who are suffering due to natural disasters, violent unrest, or war. We can also provide emotional and spiritual support by welcoming brothers and sisters into the Kingdom Hall and by coming to a caring atmosphere in the congregation. In a world where people are treated coldly and cruelly, it is important that brothers and sisters feel safe and loved when they come to the meetings.
13. How can the elderly be a refuge? (See also image.)
Whether it's organizing practical help during disasters or medical emergencies or offering spiritual support, if brothers know that an elder is kind, empathetic, and willing to listen, they will be more likely to turn to him for help. These qualities make the brothers feel more loved and find it easier to put into practice any biblical advice the elder gives them.
ILLUSTRATION
The elderly are a refuge for brothers who are going through difficult times. (See paragraph 13.)
14. How can we show that we are trustworthy?
We can show that we are trustworthy by imitating Jehovah's qualities every day, including keeping our promises and being punctual. We can also offer our help to those who need it, and if we are assigned a task, we can complete it following instructions. In this way, others will know that they can count on us, especially in difficult times.
15. How does the congregation benefit when the elders are trustworthy?
It benefits in many ways, when the elders are trustworthy, when an elder generates confidence in the publishers of his group, they feel well cared for and supported, in addition, by always being willing to help the elders make their brothers feel loved, by basing their advice on the Bible and on the publications of the faithful slave, instead of on their own opinions, they foster the confidence of the brothers.
Likewise, by maintaining confidentiality and keeping their word, they further strengthen that trust in the congregation.
16. How does being stable benefit us, and how do we benefit others?
In many ways, when we obey Jehovah and make decisions based on Bible principles, we stand firm and are not swayed by the changing ideas of this world.
This gives us emotional stability even when we receive bad news. In addition, our faith and stability allow us to help others who may be going through difficulties by giving them support and strength. In this way, we not only benefit ourselves, but we can also benefit the congregation.
17. What helps elders give stability to the congregation?
They help us to give stability to the congregation in several ways, by holding on to the faithful word they give stability and strengthen the congregation, by giving a good example and shepherding the publishers, they help them to be constant, in attendance at meetings, preaching and personal study, and when the brothers face situations that overwhelm them, they encourage them to always keep Jehovah and his purposes very present.
18. Why do we want to praise Jehovah and draw closer to him? (See also the box “A Way to Draw Close to Jehovah.”)
Because he is our rock in whom we can trust, throughout our entire life. Even in old age, Jehovah will always help us stay close to him, so we can have complete confidence in him.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
Why does the Bible say that Jehovah is like a rock?
The Bible compares Jehovah to a Rock, because like a rock he is stable, reliable, and protective, his servants can take refuge in him during difficulties knowing that he will never change or fail.
How can we make Jehovah our Rock?
Trusting Him Completely. When we read Bible stories, the experience of our brothers in these days, we should look at how Jehovah has always proven to be a rock for his servants. So we can trust that Jehovah will give us what we need to endure and be faithful to them.
What are some ways to imitate Jehovah’s qualities?
Being a source of comfort and stability in the congregation. Supporting our brothers when they go through difficult times. Making us feel safe and loved in the kingdom hall. Being reliable when fulfilling the tasks assigned to us. The elders provide a good axis in their hands and I feel a good example of stability.
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' (2)
*WATCHTOWER PRESENTATION*
STUDY ARTICLE 26
SONG 8 Jehovah Is Our Refuge
===================================
Make Jehovah Your Rock“There is no rock like our God.”—1 SAM. 2:2.
FOCUS Learn why Jehovah is referred to as a rock and how we can imitate his rock like qualities.
===================================
1. To what does David compare Jehovah, as recorded at Psalm 18:46?
In this text David compared Jehovah to a rock, because a rock is a symbol of stability, protection, and refuge. The reference to Jehovah as my rock has deep spiritual connotations.
This symbol is recurrent in the Bible and underlines the idea that Jehovah is a refuge and a place of safety for his servants. David had clearly experienced Jehovah's protection during his numerous battles and persecutions, and found in Jehovah a solid foundation on which to rely. By referring to Jehovah as his rock, David expressed not only his confidence, but also his recognition that Jehovah is a source of stability in his life.
2. What will we see in this article?
This article will explain why the Bible compares Jehovah to a rock, exploring the meaning and teaching behind this analogy.
In addition, the article will address how we can make Jehovah our rock, that is, how we can fully trust in him and seek his protection in our daily lives. Finally, we will analyze various ways in which we can imitate Jehovah's qualities, allowing his character and principles to guide our actions and decisions.
WHY IT IS SAID THAT JEHOVAH IS LIKE A ROCK
3. How does the Bible use the word rock? (See image.)
The Bible uses the word rock to describe Jehovah in relation to some of his most outstanding qualities, such as his stability, protection, and reliability.
In Deuteronomy 32:4, Moses praises Jehovah as the Rock, highlighting his perfect work and incorruptible justice. Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2:2 reinforces this idea by declaring that there is no other Rock like Jehovah.
In Habakkuk 1:12 the prophet expresses his absolute trust in Jehovah, calling him “My rock,” a personal declaration of faith in God’s strength.
The psalmist in Psalm 73:26 describes Jehovah as the rock of my heart, and finally Isaiah 448 shows Jehovah himself reaffirming his identity as the Rock. Therefore, the use of the word Rock to describe Jehovah indicates that despite the changes and challenges in life, God remains constant and firm.
ILLUSTRATION
A couple and their daughter looking at a huge mountain in front of them. God's servants see Jehovah as a rock that makes them feel safe and confident. (See paragraph 3.)
4. Why can we say that Jehovah is a refuge? (Psalm 94:22)
The metaphor of Jehovah as Refuge is profound and meaningful in times of distress and danger. The image of seeking protection in a cave or under a rock resonates with the human experience of seeking safety in the midst of adversity. The text we have read clearly expresses this confidence by describing Him as a refuge and a Rock in which we can take refuge.
This comparison underlines the protective nature of Jehovah, who not only offers us security in the present, but has also promised a future where he will eliminate everything that causes us suffering.
Furthermore, Jehovah's protection is not only physical, but also emotional and spiritual, giving us peace in the midst of life's storms.
5. What can we do to take refuge in Jehovah?
Taking refuge in Jehovah means seeking his support and protection, especially in times of distress. One of the most effective ways to do this is through prayer. Philippians 4:6,7 assures us that when we take our worries to Jehovah in prayer, he grants us a peace that surpasses all understanding and protects our hearts and minds. This peace is an emotional and spiritual refuge that helps us face even the most difficult trials.
The experience recounted in the paragraph is a clear example of how prayer can be a refuge in times of extreme pressure. Despite the intense interrogations and anxiety he felt, Artiom resorted to prayer, which allowed him to remain calm, wise and faithful under adverse circumstances.
6. Why can we always trust in Jehovah? (Isaiah 26:3, 4)
Isaiah Chapter 26 verses 3 and 4 assures us that Jehovah is the Eternal Rock, this metaphor highlights his stability and permanence, since he will always be alive, in a world where everything changes, the immutability of Jehovah provides a secure foundation for our faith, his eternity means that he will never stop fulfilling his promises, nor answering our prayers.
Therefore, Jehovah's loyalty is a guarantee that despite our imperfections, if we strive to serve him sincerely, he will never abandon us. This certainty gives us the confidence that we can completely depend on Jehovah in any circumstance of life.
7. How does trusting in Jehovah benefit us? (See also image.)
Trust in Jehovah is a fundamental pillar for facing life's challenges. Isaiah 48:17 and 18 emphasizes that Jehovah, as our instructor, guides us on the right path, which results in peace and well-being. Trusting in him implies obeying his commands, even when circumstances are adverse.
Vladimir's story of finding comfort and a deeper relationship with Jehovah while in a detention center shows that even in the most difficult circumstances, trusting in God brings us closer to Him and gives us an inner peace that the world cannot offer.
Therefore, as we see His intervention in our lives, our faith solidifies and we feel more secure and calm, knowing that we have a God who always accompanies us and never abandons us.
ILLUSTRATION
A brother who is in prison holds a Bible in his hands and looks out the window. We make Jehovah our Rock when we trust in him completely. (See paragraph 7.)
8. a) Why can we say that Jehovah is stable?
Jehovah's stability is reflected in his firmness. In the Bible, he is compared to a rock or mountain. Malachi 3:6 states that Jehovah does not change, which guarantees that his character and purpose remain constant. This means that throughout history, and despite changing circumstances, Jehovah remains faithful to his promises and standards.
The fact that Jehovah cannot deny himself reinforces this idea by showing that his integrity is unquestionable, and that his purposes remain firm, regardless of human rebellion or change.
8. b) How does it benefit us to see Jehovah as our Rock? (Psalm 62:6, 7).
This text highlights that seeing Jehovah as our Rock has multiple benefits. This psalm emphasizes that Jehovah is a constant source of strength and salvation. By trusting in Jehovah as our rock, we find security and stability, since he does not change and is always willing to provide us with support in difficult times. This recognition helps us face challenges with the certainty that Jehovah will fulfill his promises and protect us no matter what adversities we face.
9. What do you learn from Tatiana’s experience?
Tatiana's experience teaches how perspective in our relationship with Jehovah can influence our ability to face difficult situations. In her case, house arrest and initial loneliness caused feelings of discouragement. However, Tatiana found strength in focusing her mind on Jehovah and his purpose for humanity, rather than concentrating solely on her own difficulties. This approach allowed her to see her situation from a broader perspective, remembering that her trials were related to her love and loyalty to Jehovah.
10. How can you make Jehovah your Rock from now on?
To make Jehovah our rock, it is crucial that we prepare ourselves spiritually from now on to face the difficulties that lie ahead. This is achieved by strengthening our faith and trust in him, through meditation and study of ancient and contemporary biblical examples that show his faithfulness and support. These examples demonstrate how Jehovah has been a solid Rock for his servants in times of trial. These stories not only serve as inspiration, but also provide a solid foundation for our trust in Jehovah.
Furthermore, these studies and reflections will help us to be even more convinced that Jehovah will always give us what we need to be faithful to him and overcome the trials we will face in the future.
LET US IMITATE THE QUALITIES OF JEHOVAH
11. Why is it good for us to imitate Jehovah’s qualities? (See also the box “A Goal for Younger Brothers.”)
Imitating Jehovah's qualities is essential to strengthening and supporting the congregation. The Bible describes Jehovah as a rock because of his stability, firmness, and protection. In John 1:42, we read how Jesus gave Peter the name Cephas, which means piece of rock, indicating that Peter would be a source of stability and comfort for the congregation.
Similarly, Isaiah 32:2 compares elders to the shadow of a mighty Rock, highlighting their protective and stabilizing role for the brothers. Imitating these qualities in our own lives enables us to effectively help others and create a supportive environment in the congregation.
ILLUSTRATION
At the Kingdom Hall, an elder teaches a young brother how to change batteries in wireless microphones.
12. What can we do to be a refuge?
To be an effective refuge for our brothers and sisters, we must be determined to offer both physical and emotional support in crisis situations, such as natural disasters or conflicts. Providing literal shelter in our homes is one concrete way to help.
In addition to emotional and spiritual support, it is equally essential to welcome brothers and sisters with a warm and welcoming attitude at the Kingdom Hall, helping to build an atmosphere of love and support, something vital in a world that often lacks empathy and warmth.
Offering emotional and spiritual support contributes to the overall health of the congregation. This type of support not only helps brothers feel valued and secure, but also strengthens bonds within the congregation.
13. How can the elderly be a refuge? (See also image.)
The elderly are essential as a refuge for their brothers and sisters in times of difficulty, combining practical and spiritual support in critical situations such as natural disasters or medical emergencies.
Elders are responsible for organizing and coordinating the necessary help, ensuring that siblings receive the immediate support they need. In addition, the spiritual support they provide is equally vital, as they are accessible, kind and empathetic.
Elders create an environment of trust where siblings feel comfortable sharing their problems and seeking advice.
ILLUSTRATION
The elderly are a refuge for brothers who are going through difficult times. (See paragraph 13.)
14. How can we show that we are trustworthy?
Demonstrating trustworthiness involves a combination of integrity, responsibility and willingness to help. According to Proverbs 17:17, being a person that others can rely on is essential, especially in times of difficulty. This is achieved by imitating Jehovah's qualities such as faithfulness and punctuality.
In addition, offering help to those who need it and fulfilling our responsibilities efficiently strengthens our reputation for being reliable. Reliability is built through consistent actions that demonstrate our commitment to others.
By following these principles we not only gain the trust of those around us, but we also reflect the qualities of Jehovah.
15. How does the congregation benefit when the elders are trustworthy?
The trustworthiness of elders offers numerous benefits to the congregation. First, when an elder demonstrates availability and willingness to help publishers, it strengthens the sense of support and appreciation in the preaching group.
The trust that elders inspire in congregation members translates into greater cooperation and an atmosphere of unity. Secondly, their constant willingness to help and the genuine care they show contribute to an atmosphere of caring and security, which is crucial for the spiritual well-being of the congregation.
Furthermore, elders who base their advice on the scriptures and publications of the faithful slave provide a safer and more reliable guide, which reinforces the confidence of the brothers.
16. How does being stable benefit us, and how do we benefit others?
Stability is crucial for our spiritual well-being and that of the congregation. By being constant and obedient to Jehovah, we show how to live according to solid biblical principles, which is reflected in our ability to make good decisions and remain firm in the truth.
According to Ephesians 4:14, stability protects us from being swept away by erroneous doctrines and changing teachings. A solid faith provides stability in times of adversity. In addition, by remaining stable, we become models of constancy for others. This stability not only benefits us, but can also be a source of encouragement and support for those going through trials.
17. What helps elders give stability to the congregation?
Elders play a crucial role in the stability of the congregation, by exhibiting qualities such as moderation, good judgment, and organization. According to Titus 1, elders must hold fast to the faithful word, which implies a firm adherence to biblical teachings and principles that strengthen the faith of the congregation. This is essential to maintain unity and stability in times of trial or challenge.
An elder must also be moderate and reasonable, qualities that enable him to make prudent and balanced decisions. Furthermore, by setting a good example in meeting attendance, preaching, and personal study, elders inspire publishers to follow their example.
18. Why do we want to praise Jehovah and draw closer to him? (See also the box “A Way to Draw Close to Jehovah.”)
We want to praise Jehovah and get closer to him, because by meditating on his wonderful qualities, we realize how reliable and constant he is in our lives as David expressed in Psalm 144:1 when he said, "Praise Jehovah my Rock."
We recognize that Jehovah is a source of stability and protection. The Bible shows us that Jehovah is not only worthy of our praise, but that he is also always ready to support us at every stage of our lives. Even in old age, Jehovah will not abandon us, nor will he cease to be our Rock.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
Why does the Bible say that Jehovah is like a rock?
The Bible compares Jehovah to a Rock, because like a rock he is stable, reliable, and protective, his servants can take refuge in him during difficulties knowing that he will never change or fail.
How can we make Jehovah our Rock?
We can make Jehovah our Rock by trusting in him fully, praying to him in times of need, and meditating on Bible stories and experiences that demonstrate his faithfulness and protection.
What are some ways to imitate Jehovah’s qualities?
We can imitate Jehovah's qualities by being a refuge for others, showing trustworthiness in our actions, being stable in our faith, and making decisions based on biblical principles.
