TLDR;
This article emphasizes the importance of not only reading God's Word but also applying it in our lives to achieve happiness and please Jehovah. It addresses the challenges of finding time for Bible reading and applying its teachings, offering practical suggestions to overcome these obstacles. The article encourages setting realistic goals and focusing on gradual improvements to become effective "doers of the word."
- Reading and applying God's Word leads to happiness and strengthens our relationship with Jehovah.
- Overcoming challenges in making time for Bible reading and applying its teachings.
- Setting modest goals and focusing on gradual improvements.
Introduction: The Key to Happiness
Jehovah and Jesus want us to be happy, which comes from observing God's reminders and keeping His word. As worshippers, we find happiness in regularly reading and applying God's Word in our lives.
The Benefits and Challenges of Being a "Doer"
Applying what we read in God's Word pleases Jehovah, improves family life, strengthens friendships, and helps us avoid problems. However, it can be challenging to find time in our busy lives to read, study, and apply the Bible's teachings.
Setting Aside Time for God's Word
Many of Jehovah’s people have busy lives filled with secular work, family responsibilities, caring for relatives, personal health needs, and congregation assignments. To prioritize Bible reading, we must recognize it as one of "the more important things" and set aside specific, regular times for it. Finding a time with fewer distractions, such as early morning, can help with focus and retention.
Considering What You Read
Reading the Bible consistently is a good start, but it's essential to absorb and remember what we read. Avoid speed-reading; instead, slow down and think about the material. Meditating on the verses, even if it means reading fewer verses at a time, allows for deeper reflection and application throughout the day.
Applying What You Are Learning
Regardless of when and how much you read, always look for ways to apply the information. Ask yourself how you can use what you've read in your life immediately or in the near future. Even a few minutes of focused attention can help you become a doer of God's Word.
Setting Modest Goals
When applying the Bible's guidance, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of changes you need to make. If you feel overwhelmed, remember that recognizing the need for improvement is a sign of a good heart condition. Focus on setting a modest number of goals, selecting one or two areas to work on initially, and addressing others later.
Achieving Your Goals
Start with a goal that is easier to reach or addresses an area needing the most improvement. Research the topic in publications like the Watch Tower Publications Index or the Research Guide for Jehovah’s Witnesses, and pray for the desire and power to act. As you make progress, you'll feel more motivated to work on other goals, improving various aspects of your Christian life.
Letting God’s Word Be “At Work in You”
Unlike those who read the Bible without truly believing or applying it, Jehovah’s people accept the Bible as the word of God and strive to let it influence their lives. Despite challenges in finding time, reading effectively, or feeling overwhelmed, with Jehovah’s help, we can overcome these obstacles and become doers of the Word, leading to greater happiness.