A Good Reminder!

Written By: Reginald D. Spence

Are you in the process of symbolizing your dedication to Jehovah by water baptism and/or do you know someone who is? My heart could not be happier for you! And, all of Jehovah's people rejoice when someone can come out of this wicked world! (Eph. 2:2-7)

However, did you now that there are other individuals -- some unseen -- that are none too happy with your decision to serve our Grand Creator. (1 Pe. 5:8) Because of your stand, you now have their undivided attention! 

In my almost 40 years of being a servant of Jehovah, I have seen the vicious attacks by Satan, his demons and his henchmen/women on earth in their insatiable desire to stop newly dedicated ones from making any progress AFTER baptism and, unfortunately, he/they have had much success. I'm reminded of the new ones who, in our congregation, recently dedicated themselves and the happiness they shared with their brothers and sisters upon coming out of the water. I remember their faces when their names were announced from the platform as they stood up radiantly when their names were called out and they were introduced as our new brothers and sisters. Sadly, some of these individuals, for various reasons, no longer attend with us any longer. How I hope and pray that they will come back to our meetings, and, most of all, to Jehovah!!!

My point to you is this: we are in a spiritual warfare! Every second -- yes, every minute -- of the day you, as well as the rest of Jehovah's people, are being watched. (1 Co. 4:9) Satan and his demons, because they know that their time is short, are aggressively looking to cause all of us to stop serving Jehovah; however, due to the relative inexperience of newly dedicated ones, like young people, you become a prime target! (Rev. 12:12) 

So, while we rejoice with you, please know that it is imperative -- yes, absolutely vital -- for you to put on the "complete suit of armor from God" right now. (Eph. 6:11-18) Now is the time to go on acquiring power in Jehovah, and not in our own strength. (Eph. 6:10; Phil. 4:13; Pr. 3:5, 6) There was a reason why the perfect man's tears became as drops of blood. (Luke 22:44) And, that was AFTER an angel came to strengthen him! (Luke 22:43) Yes, there was a reason why Jesus admonished his followers to exert themselves vigorously. (Luke 13:24) Yes, he knew that salvation would not be like some "walk in the park." (1 Pe. 4:18)

So, may all of us realize that the fact that we are in a spiritual warfare. I see the many posts on Facebook about when we "do this or that" the Devil get's a headache and/or says expressions like "O crap, she's up again." The perfect man, Jesus, fought Satan the Devil by relying heavily on Jehovah and his teachings. (Mt. 4:1-10) Learn from his example, and oppose him at every turn. (James 4:7) Your everlasting life depends upon it!!! Those Facebook posts are no match for a very smart, and vicious, angel that's bent on getting you to stop serving Jehovah!

Do you read your Bible every day? I'm not talking about just the "Examining the Scriptures Daily." I'm talking about chapters!!! At the risk of sounding righteous overmuch, I read my Bible when I get up and I read my Bible when I retire for the evening. (Eccl. 7:16) While none of us know the day or the hour, do you get a sense that the end of this system of things is very close? (Mt. 24:36) I do!!!

Don't even think about missing another congregation meeting. If you can't go, make sure that your family is represented, and share with them the things you learned when you get back home. Family Worship is NOT an optional meeting based on your personal feelings, whims and desires. It is a requirement from Jehovah! Do you treat it that way, or is watching a 30 minute sitcom rerun that you've already seen a half a gazillion times more important to you? Talk to others about the things that you've learned. See their faces at the end of the great tribulation as they lay dying when they ask you: "if you knew these things concerning the truth, why didn't you tell me about them"? Associate with those who love Jehovah as you do. And, you talk to Jehovah, convene with Him, consult with Him like King David did! (2 Sa. 5:19)

We're almost there, brothers and sisters. Dig in, do what Jehovah has taught us and perhaps we'll get to see one another personally without the technology of Facebook! (Hab. 2:3; Zeph. 2:3)