MOSES ORGANIZES THEM, APPOINTING HEADS TO JUDGE. Before Moses explains God's standards for those appointed to judge among Israel, he expresses a bit some distress he felt at trying to handle the load of judging the nation by himself, and accepts the advice he had received to delegate this responsibility to many capable, worthy men--what qualities does he look for in them? How does he organize them? Israel then numbered into the millions, and Moses compares their number to the stars of the heavens, and expressing hope that they continue to grow in number. Here are his words:

“9 And I told you at that time, ‘I am not able to carry you by myself. 10 Jehovah your God has multiplied you, and here you are today as numerous as the stars of the heavens.11 May Jehovah, the God of your forefathers, multiply you a thousand times as many as you are, and may he bless you just as he has promised you. 12 How can I bear by myself the burden of you and the load of you and your quarreling? 13 Select wise, discreet, and experienced men of your tribes, and I will appoint them as heads over you.’ 14 You answered me, ‘What you have told us to do is good.’ 15 So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and appointed them as heads over you, chiefs of thousands, chiefs of hundreds, chiefs of fifties, chiefs of tens, and officers of your tribes."

WISDOM AND DISCRETION, ORGANIZATION. Notice what Moses was looking for in those selected to judge and lead Israel: He wanted "wise, discreet, and experienced men." Thus they were to have many of the traits of wisdom, such as discernment, understanding, and prudence, with good thinking ability. With discernment, they could tell true from false, right from wrong, important matters from those less so. They would thus be discreet, showing good judgment. With understanding, they could see the whole of many matters, and how small issues contributed to the big picture, God's view. With experience often comes prudence, to see the consequences of an action or a decision, and think ahead to avoid the problems, grief, etc. of bad choices, finding the rewards of practicing what is right. Such qualities, then, would enable them to serve the needs of those in their care with fair success, and do so lovingly, after the example of Jehovah and His servant Moses. And Moses proceeded to organize them to serve over variously sized groups of 1000, 100, 50, and 10. What a fine arrangement and example for spiritual Israel today, as true Christians should likewise submit to such order in seeking to serve and please GOD. Now, in what way were the appointed men to judge their cases? By whose standards?

“16 At that time I instructed your judges, ‘When you hear a case between your brothers, you are to judge with righteousness between a man and his brother or a foreign resident.17 You must not be partial in judgment. You should hear the small one the same as the great one. You must not become intimidated by men, for the judgment belongs to God; and if a case is too difficult for you, you should present it to me, and I will hear it.’18 At that time I instructed you regarding all the things that you should do."

STANDARDS OF RIGHT, NONFAVORITISM, AND FEARING GOD OVER MEN. Thus, the appointed men were to judge their cases by God's standards of what is right, and to do so impartially, regardless whether the individual in the right was an Israelite or a foreigner. Favoritism was not to be shown in a case of judgment--not to the rich, nor to the poor, the great, nor the small--what was right by God was to prevail in each case. And they were not to fear men, or their threats in a case, but trust God to safeguard them as they did what was right each time. The most difficult cases could go to Moses to judge. He related all the things they needed to do, to maintain good order.

Next, Israel heads toward the land of Promise. What events transpire, and ultimately, how does this reveal some important lessons for us today, paving the way for greater trust and confidence in God?

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Stanza 20B:
157 My persecutors and my adversaries are many; But I have not deviated from your reminders.
158 I look on the treacherous with loathing, Because they do not keep your saying.
159 See how I love your orders! O Jehovah, preserve me alive because of your loyal love.
160 The very essence of your word is truth, And all your righteous judgments endure forever.

157 My persecutors and my adversaries are many; But I have not deviated from your reminders.

PERSECUTORS OR ADVERSARIES. Notice the psalmist distinguishes his persecutors from his adversaries. Apparently, not all who are persecuting him does he believe to be enemies. Some may genuinely be seeking to do right, but are misled perhaps by those in authority who should be leading the people properly. Nevertheless the number of all these are “many,” yet Jehovah has not abandoned him. The psalmist continues to keep God’s reminders faithfully. Whatever challenges we may face in serving Jehovah, may we continue to uphold His law, especially His orders, and loving the reminders we receive to keep His law constantly before us. (v.44)

158 I look on the treacherous with loathing, Because they do not keep your saying.

AVOID TREACHERY, REMAIN LOYAL. Such “treacherous” ones are disloyal, to God and other humans. In Malachi’s day, Jehovah roundly condemned even the people of Judah, for dealing treacherously with Him, and the men for doing the same “with the wife of your youth.” At Malachi 2:13-14 Jehovah explains: “13 “And there is another thing that you do, which results in covering the altar of Jehovah with tears and with weeping and sighing, so that he no longer pays attention to your gift offering or looks favorably on anything from your hand. 14 And you say, ‘For what reason?’ It is because Jehovah has acted as a witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously, although she is your partner and your wife by covenant.” This situation was largely caused by their leaving Jehovah to serve other gods, engaging in the sin of idolatry, which causes spiritual blindness (Psalm 115). Satan's influence may have also been a factor. They needed to humbly return to serve the true God, Jehovah, regaining their spiritual sight, return to “keep [God’s] saying” and with God’s spirit, have loyal love restored to their hearts and marriages. May we likewise avoid treacherous dealings, remaining loyal to Jehovah. Psalm 18:25 says of God: “25 With someone loyal you act in loyalty; With the blameless man you deal blamelessly.”

159 See how I love your orders! O Jehovah, preserve me alive because of your loyal love.

SEEK GOD'S LOYAL LOVE. The psalmist loves God’s orders, for they help him stay focused on doing Jehovah’s will wholeheartedly, and maintaining his close relationship with God. He knows his love for God is well-founded, appreciating God’s tremendous love for His human creation, especially for those proving loyal to Him. On this basis, he seeks Jehovah’s help to be ‘preserved alive’—to come out of his trials with his life and godly reputation intact. Thus Jehovah would preserve him alive, as evidently promised, both physically and spiritually. (v.116). Of course, the psalmist eventually did die, but for any who do die faithfully, surely the resurrection hope is God’s assurance to them of their reward leading to eternal life. Such ones are alive in God’s memory, and He “yearns” to restore them to life. As Job of old recognized, at Job 14:15: “15 You will call, and I will answer you. You will long for the work of your hands.” With faith in Christ, Jesus said to Martha, regarding the time we’re living: “25 Jesus said to her: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life; 26 and everyone who is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all. Do you believe this?” How vital that all learn Christ’s instructions, that Jesus’ teaching and example may be faithfully followed!

160 The very essence of your word is truth, And all your righteous judgments endure forever.

BLESSED BY JEHOVAH, THE GOD OF TRUTH. Yes, Jehovah is the “God of truth.” Thus His word is in harmony with the God who hates a lie. (Titus 1:2; Prove 6:16-19). His judgments are “true and righteous.” In Isaiah 65, Jehovah speaks eventual judgment against those choosing to ignore Him—choosing to serve instead gods of “Good luck” and “Destiny.” "15...But his own servants he will call by another name; 16 So that anyone who seeks a blessing for himself in the earth Will be blessed by the God of truth, And anyone who swears an oath in the earth Will swear by the God of truth. For the former distresses will be forgotten; They will be concealed from my eyes.17 For look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be called to mind, Nor will they come up into the heart.18 So exult and be joyful forever in what I am creating. For look! I am creating Jerusalem a cause for joy And her people a cause for exultation.” New Jerusalem encompasses those ruling with Christ in God’s Kingdom. (Revel 21:1-5). May we put faith, or deep trust, in Jehovah and Jesus, following the truth of God’s word, toward an eternity of happiness and peace, in a new world of righteousness—the framework of a happy, successful life and family that accords with God’s right ways and standards! (2Peter 3:13)

Prove 9:15-18 The persuasion of this woman is focused primarily on fleshly desire, rather than anything of lasting value. She claims that "stolen waters are sweet, and food eaten in secret is pleasant." She thus causes ones to believe that stealing and behaving secretly or deceptively leads to real satisfaction in life. Her motives are made clear in verse 18, showing her persuasions lead to such things as sexual immorality or other serious sins that result in spiritual and often physical demise, turning ones away from the path leading to eternal life and true happiness. May we be alert to such persuasions in our personal associations, including the entertainment we allow ourselves to be exposed to. Let's be careful in what we choose to consider, that, avoiding the cunning way Satan deceived Eve, our minds are not "corrupted away from the sincerity and the chastity that are due the Christ." (2Cori 11:3). Proverbs 13:20 thus cautions: "The one walking with the wise will become wise, But the one who has dealings with the stupid will fare badly." Let's be alert to notice if inexperienced loved ones are somehow gravitating toward personalities inclined in such ways, that they may be alerted to helpful cautions, to gain more foresighted shrewdness, or prudence, to realize the potentially disastrous consequences of falling into bad company (1Cori 15:33). While we love all people, wanting as many as possible to gain a foothold on eternal life, many are still inclined otherwise, and need loving guidance to understand how to correct their steps. We might pray about the matter regarding our loved ones or companions needing help, that the human family may largely escape the corruption and disobedient or disloyal spirit that may cause many to lose out on everlasting happiness!

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Psalm 98 (Book 4, 9th psalm) recognizes God's wondrous activity, bringing about salvation to right-hearted mankind. Verse 2 says "Jehovah has made known his salvation; He has revealed his righteousness before the nations." Verse 3 says "He has remembered his loyal love and faithfulness to the house of Israel." Israel, of course, was God's chosen people, whom he loved and favored at one time. But with determined disobedience and rejection of his own son, God's favor shifted toward those having the spiritual faith of Israel's forefather Abraham, rather than simply those born in his lineage. Thus those, including fleshly Jews, walking in line with true Christianity have become the "Israel of God", as God's word explains in Galatians 6:16: "As for all those who walk orderly by this rule of conduct, peace and mercy be upon them, yes, upon the Israel of God." Verses 3,4,9 of Psalm 98 continue: "All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. Shout in triumph to Jehovah, all the earth. Be cheerful and shout joyfully and sing praises...He will judge the inhabited earth with righteousness and the peoples with fairness." Jehovah's favor is now upon those looking to Him and his son for direction and guidance in life, leading to their genuine peace and happiness.
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Romans 9:1-6 The apostle Paul explains that salvation did originate with the Jews. He has "great grief and unceasing pain in his heart," that more Israelites did not or would not accept Christ and fulfill their intended role in the salvation of mankind. In verse 4 Paul says "To them belong the adoption as sons and the glory and the covenants and the giving of the Law and the sacred service and the promises. To them the forefathers belong, and from them the Christ descended according to the flesh." But notice Paul's next words: "However, it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who descend from Israel are really "Israel." Yes, God gave fleshly Israel the opportunity of being the ones from whom the kings of God's kingdom, co-rulers with Christ, would descend. At Exodus 19:5,6 God said this to Moses, to tell Israel: "Now if you will strictly obey my voice and keep my covenant, you will certainly become my special property out of all peoples, for the whole earth belongs to me. 6 You will become to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites.”" Did Israel live up to God's requirement? They did not strictly obey God's voice, but time and again turned to false gods and false worship, resulting in their captivity to Assyria and Babylon, and their ultimate rejection of God's son. Notice Jesus' sentiments, at Matthew 23:37-39: “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the killer of the prophets and stoner of those sent to her—how often I wanted to gather your children together the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings! But you did not want it. 38 Look! Your house is abandoned to you. 39 For I say to you, you will by no means see me from now until you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in Jehovah’s name!’” Still, there were many faithful individuals, and thus many of them did accept Christ and received the privilege of being with Christ in the heavenly kingdom. But God turned to the nations, to allow some of them also to receive this same privilege. God's will is still being accomplished worldwide, toward a united, peaceful Earth. All praise to Jehovah for the outworking of His loving purpose toward mankind!

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

CONFIDENCE IN THE CREATOR AND HIS INSPIRED WORD VITAL FOR TRUE HAPPINESS.

LIFT UP YOUR EYES ...As we began to consider previously, man’s Creator, GOD, has demonstrated great love, power, wisdom, and even a sense of justice in the way He made the Universe, this planet, and all that is on and within it. This includes such an incredible variety of creatures, and food supporting man, who according to GOD’s inspired Word, the Bible, is the only physical, or physiological, creature made “in GOD’s image,” or after HIS likeness, having capacity for the same qualities and full character such as HE has (Genesis 1:26). The Bible opens with these inspiring words: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1). Who has raised their eyes to a clear night sky, away from city lights, and not been impressed by the vastness and the sheer number and presumed order of the stars reaching our planet’s view. Notice what the Bible says regarding this: “26 “Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. Who has created these things? It is the One who brings out their army by number; He calls them all by name. Because of his vast dynamic energy and his awe-inspiring power, Not one of them is missing.” (Isaiah 40:26).

DEEPLY IMPRESSED? If you had all the names of these stars in front of you, how many of them could you recall? How long would it take you to learn a thousand, a million, a billion, a trillion? As GOD created them, He reasonably named them, over aeons of time, and Has the capacity to remain familiar with each one. Can we not be deeply impressed, and inspired, as we contemplate and ponder GOD’s great power? Previous to that verse in the Bible book of Isaiah, comes this question from GOD Himself: “25 “To whom can you liken me to make me his equal?” says the Holy One.” Thus, no creation of GOD deserves the same respect, devotion, even worship that only GOD deserves. And by GOD’s own word, another of His inspiring qualities comes to the fore: He is “the Holy One.” Contrary to some opinion, this quality should be quite attractive—it means GOD is pure, clean, uncorrupt, never abusive of His power. That quality does not make Him arrogant, rather it is as He says at Isaiah 57:15: “15 For this is what the High and Lofty One says, Who lives forever and whose name is holy: “I reside in the high and holy place, But also with those crushed and lowly in spirit, To revive the spirit of the lowly And to revive the heart of those being crushed.” Thus this quality is in agreement with His primary quality, LOVE.

THE GOD WHO “IS LOVE”

LOVING GOD AND NEIGHBOR. Not only has GOD revealed tremendous love in the way He made mankind and this earth, but His Word, the Bible, actually goes into greater detail on how this quality is cultivated and demonstrated. Other qualities come together to make up this crowning quality of LOVE, which is not only shown by GOD, but should be shown by humans for GOD and for other humans. GOD’s Son Jesus, revealed the greatest commandments of GOD’s law to descendants of HIS servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, renamed Israel, whose lives are depicted in the first Bible book of Genesis. That law is detailed in the Bible books of Exodus and Leviticus. The fifth book of Deuteronomy explains some of that law, in encouraging GOD’s people at that time to love and obey Him implicitly, en route to the Promised Land of their inheritance. GOD had loyally promised Abraham that his descendants would acquire a land of Promise, a land “flowing with milk and honey.” (Exodus 3:8). The commandments Jesus said were greatest had to do with LOVE—we are to love GOD with all we have, and then our neighbor as ourselves. (Matthew 22:37-39). We show our love for GOD by obeying Him (1John 5:3). IT IS GOD WHO KNOWS BEST HOW HUMANS CAN DWELL TOGETHER IN TRUE PEACE AND HAPPINESS—BY OBEYING GOD FIRST WE THUS MAKE HIM HAPPY, SHOW MORE COMPLETE LOVE TO OTHERS, AND PROMOTE GENUINE UNITY.

BLESSED FOR OBEDIENCE. Abraham’s descendants eventually ended up in Egypt, as slaves, but at GOD’s appointed time, HE loyally saved them from their plight, and keeping His promise to His faithful servant Abraham, eventually brought them into the Land Promised to them. When they obeyed GOD, they were blessed, and under the rule of David’s son Solomon, there was extraordinary peace and prosperity, as a foregleam of earthwide promises GOD has made for the near future in our day, under the promised rule of “a son of man,” born in the line of David, with even greater blessings by GOD. (1Kings 4:25; Jeremiah 23:5; Daniel 7:13-14; Psalm 72:7-8; Psalm 132:10-11; Luke 18:7-8). The Bible book of Revelation, among other Bible books, foretells blessings of a government on earth having HIS approval.

GOD’S PURPOSES LOVING, BENEFICIAL, ENLIGHTENING AND TRUSTWORTHY

HE WILL WIPE OUT EVERY TEAR. Revelation makes this promise: “3 With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4). Must all people ascend to heaven for true happiness and peace, or is it possible that such conditions could, with GOD’s blessing, come about right here on planet Earth, “with mankind?”!! The Creator, GOD Himself, has an incredible record of reliability regarding His purposes, just as HE was able to rescue His people Israel out of slavery in Egypt, out of the hands of Pharaoh’s army, parting the Red Sea for their escape, where to this day is evidence of Pharaoh’s chariots and chariot wheels, which God’s word stated HE was removing from the chariots as HE fought against them to protect Israel. (Exodus 14:25, KJV).

TRUST GOD AND HIS WORD FOR SALVATION. What of Pharaoh’s army, who perished in the Red Sea? This story makes it clear that people need FAITH, or CONFIDENCE IN GOD AND HIS WORD for salvation and happiness. How so? You may recall that this occurred only after the Tenth Plague on Egypt, the striking of the firstborn. JEHOVAH is a GOD of freedom—so HE allows people to choose their own course, although there are often consequences to bad decisions. God allowed Pharaoh to become so stubborn, despite all the proof of GOD’s great power over the other gods of Egypt. Still, all that was necessary was the placing of the blood of a lamb or a goat on the doorposts of a home, likely using the animal as for a life-saving meal, for the angel to “pass over” the house and not strike the firstborn. Those showing no faith in GOD or HIS WORD, and didn’t heed the warning, did suffer loss. Still, the seriousness of the matter of letting GOD’S PEOPLE GO and worship Him was also made clear—it had become a life or death matter to GOD. It was the Hebrew Joseph that GOD used to save countless lives in Egypt and elsewhere during the great famine. (Genesis 41:54-57). For hundreds of years Egypt had benefitted from Hebrew labor and toil. Yet, that time was up—rather, it was time for GOD to keep His promise to His Hebrew servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Thus, chasing after GOD’s people, showing no faith in GOD’s power, was risky business. Israel, however, left with a vast mixed crowd of EGYPTIANS—WHO DID PUT FAITH IN GOD, and wanted to worship HIM among GOD’s people. (Exodus 12:38). Thus it was an individual choice to love and obey GOD or not. It is ultimately ENDLESS LIFE IN TRUE HAPPINESS that GOD PURPOSES for obedient mankind. (Psalm 37:29).

CONCLUSION:

JESUS’ SIMILAR PLEA. Did Jesus support this recommendation? Absolutely! Among the important statements He made when being tempted by God’s enemy Satan at the time was this: “It is written: “ MAN MUST LIVE, NOT ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY WORD COMING FROM JEHOVAH’S MOUTH. ” (Matthew 4:4). Thus, all should aim to become keenly aware of GOD’s instruction and guidance, benefitting from it regularly, just as we benefit from life-promoting food on a daily basis. Another Scripture stating the value of GOD’s written word, is found at 2Timothy 3:16-17.

Here it is from a simplified translation: “16 God has breathed life into all of Scripture. It is useful for teaching us what is true. It is useful for correcting our mistakes. It is useful for making our lives whole again. It is useful for training us to do what is right. 17 By using Scripture, a man of God can be completely prepared to do every good thing. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 | NIRV)

UNDER THE RULE OF GOD’S GOVERNMENT, THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN HIS WORD WILL MAKE POSSIBLE PUBLIC POLICIES THAT PROMOTE HONESTY, FAIRNESS, REASONABLENESS AND HAPPINESS.

It may be that even now adherence to GOD's word is allowing some success in policy-making and follow-through. Many of GOD’s policies are clearly set forth in His Word. Still, some questions remain: Is GOD’s word meant to be understood accurately? How so, and how might misunderstandings have hindered confidence in GOD? Also, how is GOD’s purpose Universal in scope, but what should come first? And, HOW IS IT THAT GOD’S STANDARDS ARE REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE AND REWARDING?

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

CONFIDENCE IN GOD AND HIS WORD PROMOTES GENUINE PEACEFUL UNITY.

GOD’S WORD MEANT TO BE UNDERSTOOD ACCURATELY BY SINCERE, DILIGENT STUDENTS

TRUTHFUL GUIDANCE? Did GOD intend for so many things to remain confusing, or did HE give us enough truthful instruction that those loving HIM and HIS Son may really get to know them well enough to understand GOD’s loving and just purposes for mankind, and to practice qualities that contribute to lasting peace, unity, and happiness, endearing ones to them? We needn’t wonder, for GOD’s Word itself has the answer. Notice, for instance, the desire of GOD expressed at 1Corinthians 1:10:

“10 Now I urge you, brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you should all speak in agreement and that there should be no divisions among you, but that you may be completely united in the same mind and in the same line of thought.”

TRUE UNITY POSSIBLE. What can bring about such unity? Notice, respect for the Lord Jesus Christ is involved. Accordingly, adherence to the truth of God’s word and will. Jesus said in prayer to GOD, for instance, regarding his disciples: “17 Sanctify them by means of the truth; your word is truth.“ (John 17:17). Loyal love for GOD is involved, and 1John 5:3 says: “3 For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” Likewise, Isaiah 48:17-18 says: “17 This is what Jehovah says, your Repurchaser, the Holy One of Israel: “I, Jehovah, am your God, The One teaching you to benefit yourself, The One guiding you in the way you should walk. 18 If only you would pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would become just like a river And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.” Thus peace would flow abundantly, and adherence to GOD’s right laws and standards would be shown consistently. This is made possible by getting to know GOD and Jesus through attention to GOD’s inspired word, the Bible. As John 17:3 says: “3 This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” Therefore, both Jehovah and Jesus are involved in eternal salvation, and their personalities are similar, according to the Bible.

Bible Grammar and Translation Sometimes a Factor

MISUNDERSTOOD GRAMMAR. There are instances where incorrect grammar translation has resulted in confusion about an important spiritual matter, even hindering the faith of some in the Creator. Here is a significant example, involving a common mistranslation that affects our view of prayer. Have you ever prayed for something once, perhaps a reasonable request of God, expecting it to come to you soon afterward? Were you then disappointed, left questioning the Creator’s power or love or justice or wisdom, or His rightful authority as the “Hearer of prayer?” (Psalm 65:2). You may have read in the Bible Jesus’ own words, such as at Luke 11:9, in the King James Version: “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Would this not give credence to your thinking? Yet, is this really the correct grammar for this verse, and does the context support it?

CONTEXT REVEALS TRUTH. The actual correct grammar here is known as the “present imperative” in Koine Greek, the original language of this Bible book. Notice how the NWT, the New World Translation, translates this text: ““9 So I say to you, keep on asking, and it will be given you; keep on seeking, and you will find; keep on knocking, and it will be opened to you.” The emphasis here is on persistence, which is the lesson Jesus had just taught in the preceding parable! Many Bible versions mistranslate this verse, after the pattern of the KJV. Notice the parable Jesus uses in verses 5-8, KJV: “5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? 7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.” Now, we must understand “importunity” to comprehend this—to be importunate is “troublesomely urgent: overly persistent in request or demand.” (Merriam-Webster, 2018) So as verse 8 says, because of his urgent and persistent requests the friend gave him what he needed. Therefore, God wants us to be persistent in our requests that really matter to us in harmony with His will, in faith trusting in Him to hear and supply what’s needed as He deems appropriate. Might this not help to bolster the faith of some who didn’t realize the correct translation of that important Bible verse? Of course, other factors are involved in the answering of prayers by God, but clearly this point is more than trivial. This provides evidence as well that Bible translators are not infallible—they can make mistakes in their translating work. Yet, the Bible has largely been translated rather faithfully from it’s original languages of Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Most mistakes are usually minor in importance, although some serious discrepancies have crept in. (For a better understanding, see the article “ Finding Truth ” or “ Bible Translations—Are Their Translators Infallible ” elsewhere on this website).

CHRISTIANITY A MARCH OF LIFE

MANY TO MAINTAIN LIFE INTO ETERNITY! It appears that some have the notion that embracing Christianity is signing on to martyrdom. THAT IS NOT THE WILL OF GOD! They may get this notion by misinterpreting Scriptures such as 1Peter 2:21, where Peter, in the context of enduring hardships and insults from others, writes: “In fact, to this course you were called, because even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to follow his steps closely.” It is not his death that Christians are to follow closely, but his faithful obedience to God and his patient endurance of wrong. While Christians should be willing to loyally obey God even in the face of threats and death, as some early Christians did, this was largely done by those having a hope of heavenly life as faithful rulers with Christ—not that of an earthly Paradise, under Christ’s rulership. The truth is, Christ actually died for others, that many may not even EVER have to face death! Notice a few Scriptures: 2Corinthians 5:14-15 says this: “14 For the love the Christ has compels us, because this is what we have concluded, that one man died for all; so, then, all had died. 15 And he died for all so that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for him who died for them and was raised up.” And when Jesus’ friend Lazarus had died, Martha acknowledged to Jesus: “I know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” She was restating Jesus’ own teachings regarding the condition of the dead, the majority of whom are “sleeping in death,” and awaiting a future resurrection (Matthew 9:24; John 11:11,14; 1Thessalonians 4:13). Jesus then said this: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life; and everyone who is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all. Do you believe this?” Thus Jesus showed that many may even survive “the great tribulation” foretold in GOD’s word, by heeding the the word of GOD and HIS son. (Revelation 7:9-10,13-15).

FAITH VITAL! Thus it would be those having FAITH, OR DEEP TRUST, IN GOD AND THE PROMISED SEED, like Israel’s forefather ABRAHAM, that would lead them to eternal life. Thus, after fleshly Israel largely opposed and rejected the son of God, the “ISRAEL OF GOD” became “all those who walk orderly by this (Christian) rule of conduct, peace and mercy be upon them, yes, upon the Israel of God.” (Galatians 6:16; Mathew 23:37-39). Of course, many of fleshly Israel did have faith in Jesus, and these made up the first of those chosen to rule with Christ above. Yet GOD clearly purposed for those of all nations to have opportunity for eternal life through such faith. Thus GOD had told Abraham: “I will surely bless you and I will surely multiply your offspring like the stars of the heavens and like the grains of sand on the seashore, and your offspring will take possession of the gate of his enemies.” (Genesis 22:17). In referencing the “stars of the heavens” and the multitudinous “grains of sand on the seashore,” JEHOVAH GOD doubtless had in mind HIS purpose to fill the entire Universe with people deeply trusting HIM as did HIS “friend,” Abraham (Isaiah 41:8). GOD’S PURPOSE IS THUS UNIVERSAL, BUT FIRST THINGS FIRST: GOD first purposes for those of earth to return to human perfection and health, and clean man’s home planet, the earth, to make it the gem GOD originally intended it to be, welcoming back our ancestors of times past, and helping them learn of GOD’s right ways. To properly care for Earth, global warming must be halted, so the earth can return to it’s normal healthy cycles. In fact, GOD has judgment against those who refuse to cooperate with HIS purpose to protect Man’s earthly home, both spiritually and physically. (Revelation 11:18).

Thus, to reiterate from last week’s post:

UNDER THE RULE OF GOD’S GOVERNMENT, THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN HIS WORD WILL MAKE POSSIBLE PUBLIC POLICIES THAT PROMOTE HONESTY, FAIRNESS, REASONABLENESS AND HAPPINESS.

Such happiness of course includes a healthy home environment, both physically and spiritually, cared for properly by Earth’s inhabitants, those who will respect our planetary home.

GOD’S STANDARDS REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE, REWARDING

REALISTIC. The laws and pure standards that GOD sets forth in His word the Bible are “not burdensome” to keep, but rather “healthful” and capable of being practiced. Notice the opening words of Psalm 119, clarifying this in verses 1-4: “119 Happy are those who are blameless in their way, Who walk in the law of Jehovah. 2 Happy are those who observe his reminders, Who search for him with all their heart. 3 They practice no unrighteousness; They walk in his ways. 4 You have commanded That your orders be carefully kept.” Thus there are many truly heeding GOD’s word and law, living by it day to day, delighting in integrity to GOD, loving HIM and others, and finding true happiness in doing so!

REASONABLE. Those who have determined to live by GOD’s standards have found that they are indeed, reasonable. Our loving GOD does not ask more of us than we can offer. He requires our best effort to obey Him, aiming for a good target of righteousness, or HIS right standards. Our occasional, unintended misses, may then be forgiven on the basis of Christ’s ransom sacrifice. Notice Moses’ words to the people regarding the reasonableness of GOD’s requirements for them: “11 “Now this commandment that I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you, nor is it beyond your reach. 12 It is not in the heavens, so that you have to say, ‘Who will ascend to the heavens and get it for us, so that we may hear it and observe it?’ 13 Nor is it on the other side of the sea, so that you have to say, ‘Who will cross over to the other side of the sea and get it for us, so that we may hear it and observe it?’ 14 For the word is very near you, in your own mouth and in your own heart, so that you may do it.” And Christians are likewise commanded, at Philippians 4:5, “5 Let your reasonableness become known to all men. The Lord is near.” Thus GOD wants many to see that true Christians who live GOD’s way are living proof of HIS reasonable standards.

RELIABLE AND REWARDING. JEHOVAH GOD wants all to recognize that HE, as man’s CREATOR, understands us like no other, and that we can TRUST HIS instructions and guidance is truly for our long-term happiness and benefit. Proverbs 3:5-8 thus exhorts: “ 5 Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways take notice of him, And he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not become wise in your own eyes. Fear Jehovah and turn away from bad. 8 It will be a healing to your body And refreshment for your bones.” Thus living by GOD’s standards promotes health and refreshing happiness! Notice the description of GOD’s law found at Psalm 19:7-11: “7 The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring strength. The reminder of Jehovah is trustworthy, making the inexperienced one wise. 8 The orders from Jehovah are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice; The commandment of Jehovah is clean, [“enlightening the eyes”, AMP]. 9 The fear of Jehovah is pure, lasting forever. The judgments of Jehovah are true, altogether righteous.10 They are more desirable than gold, Than much fine gold, And sweeter than honey, the honey that drips from the combs.11 By them your servant has been warned; In keeping them, there is a large reward.” The faith, or deep trust, in GOD mentioned earlier is indeed necessary to please HIM, and notice this aspect, at Hebrews 11:6: “6 Moreover, without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” Thus, GOD is eager to reward and bless HIS faithful people. May we find the blessing of GOD on our activities, as we seek to know HIS right way of doing things, that we may be successful, acting in harmony with GOD’s loving will and purpose. Proverbs 10:22 says: “22 It is the blessing of Jehovah that makes one rich, And He adds no pain with it.”

CONCLUSION:

MAY JEHOVAH, THE GOD OF LOYAL LOVE, PREVAIL THROUGH CHRIST! Will not GOD ensure we can understand the truth of HIS word, in a way allowing for cooperation and unity regarding HIS purposes for mankind and this planet? Is HE not the worthy one to look to for guidance, being our Creator giving us "life and breath and all things?" He also holds the lives of our loved ones and ancestors of the past in HIS hands. GOD's right as Universal Sovereign has already been challenged by enemies for some thousands of years, but as Creator, with proven love, is HE not the One with primary right to govern HIS creation, with love, compassion, and the protection of peace-loving lives earth-wide? As Revelation 4:11 states: "You are worthy, Jehovah, even our GOD, to receive the glory, and the honor, and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they existed and were created." May we place full trust and confidence in our Creator to know what is best for mankind, and to use HIS great power to protect innocent ones and our ancestors, such as Abraham, whom GOD called "my friend." (Isaiah 41:8). GOD longs to restore them to life--let GOD prevail according to HIS right to govern us with such love and fairness!

RULE THROUGH CHRIST SATISFYING! Psalm 145:16-17 says: "You open your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing. 17 Jehovah is righteous in all his ways And loyal in all that he does." Can we not trust GOD to arrange HIS government to exercise a loving dominion over those submitting to HIS rule? Jesus' example, as shown in GOD's word proves his rule in GOD's government will be fair, just, and loving. May misunderstandings of GOD's word not distract us from our confidence in GOD, trusting HIM to help all willing ones of mankind to embrace the truth found therein, as we work together to clean up the earth and assist one another spiritually to advance and grow to human completeness and good health. And may we trust GOD's standards of fair and honest conduct to prove to be for us REALISTIC, REASONABLE, RELIABLE, AND REWARDING! And learning to adhere to such standards, may we thereby come to find genuine PEACEFUL UNITY earth-wide under GOD's fair and benevolent rulership through GOD's firstborn son!

MAIINTAINING A WHOLESOME ENVIRONMENT. The extreme importance of maintaining a morally clean environment throughout these formative years cannot be overstated. The experiences you have and the stories you can pass on to your children when they become of age to embark on their own journey toward a faithful, responsible life course before Jehovah God, will be passed down for generations to come. This arrangement, while challenging for both the youth involved and his/her parents, will end up creating some of the most inspiring testimonies of holding a faithful course of integrity to God, showing loyal love for both Him and one's parents for having cared so much for so many years to do their very best at raising them in a right, loving way. May the resulting experience gained over the next 3+ years of chaste singleness bring delight to lovers of righteousness everywhere and contribute immensely to the wonderful spiritual condition God has purposed for all to enjoy in His new world of peace. (Psalm 37:7-11,29; 2Peter 3:13) Psalm 37 may be of tremendous encouragement, reminding all of the value of proving blameless before Jehovah, doing nothing that could stumble others away from faithfulness and loyal integrity to our loving God and Father Jehovah.Psalm 37:37-38, for instance, says this: "Take note of the blameless one, And keep the upright one in sight, For the future of that wo/man will be peaceful. But all the transgressors will be destroyed; The future of wicked people will be cut off." When we treasure fondness for Jehovah, we remain determined to uphold HIS standards in our life, including vital moral laws and principles. ( WHAT IT MEANS ) As we do so, we cultivate the proper desires that are indeed IN HARMONY with the will of Jehovah God, which He will bless.

VITALLY IMPORTANT! The Scriptures help us see this matter in the proper light: With compassion, none of us wish to see another suffer a terrible disaster. Jesus understood this, but made a serious point, for the purpose of helping us strongly hate giving any consideration to tempting others to violate God's law: At Luke 17:1-4, NLT we read: "One day Jesus said to His disciples, "There will always be temptation to sin, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting! 2 It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around your neck than to cause one of these little ones to fall into sin. 3 So watch yourselves! If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. 4 Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive." Therefore, while we understand that God is merciful, we must not take that mercy for granted, but always strive to please God in what we do. Then God will ensure you have the advice you need to remain faithful. At Psalm 32:8 God says: "I will give you insight and instruct you in the way you should go. I will give advice with my eye upon you. 9 Do not become like a horse or mule, without understanding, whose spiritedness must be controlled with a bridle or a halter before it will come near to you." Ultimately, it is Jehovah God who can help a youth to prosper and assist one in eventually finding a suitable marriage partner that will make possible decade after decade of sharing life's joys together within the realm of God's Kingdom, with great love for our Creator, shown by obedience to Him (1John 5:3).

MORE 'INSIGHT AND INSTRUCTION.' Recall that the new dwelling is to be an extension of the parental home. As such, it is fine to look forward to much that can also be examined by reading and study. Why not, for instance, have some study material on improving your reading comprehension and perhaps even reading speed? This will certainly come in handy the more you study. Also, this would be a good time for giving attention to an overview of the inspired word of God, with helpful materials, as it instructs us in making good decisions in practically every area of life, and getting to know better the world at large, as God shows His care for all those who will repent and appreciate His love for them. There will be other beneficial matters you can enjoy considering in this new environment, that you can learn to maintain according to God's standards of orderliness and cleanliness.

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: IMMIGRATION

Last week’s conclusion included this thought: Tears of sorrow will all but vanish as we address issue after issue needing attention to be in harmony with GOD’s loving ways and wondrous Word! Let’s look at another issue that needs to be addressed in this nation, the United States, in a reasonable and fair way:

IMMIGRATION

JUSTICE? There is a heavy backlog of cases for those wishing to enter our country properly. In fact, last August, the load of cases reached 1 million, not counting an additional 0.3 million “pending” cases. Most must wait months or years for their cases to complete, and many (not all) cases drag on for nearly two years time! At that time, these cases were evidently being handled by less than 500 judges in the court system. With respect to the president, this may have increased since then, and of course these judges work tirelessly to do what they can, and deserve much commendation. How did God feel about such foreigners in His land of Israel? The people of Israel had become foreign residents in the land of Egypt, before God saved them from slavery there. Likewise many early settlers in the land of the United States had been persecuted religiously in their former land, and were able to escape from such to serve God freely in this land. Thus, in this setting, God told Israel they must view them as He views them:

Deuteronomy 10:18-19 “He executes justice for the fatherless child and the widow and loves the foreign resident, giving him food and clothing. You too must love the foreign resident, for you became foreign residents in the land of Egypt.”

When a case arose involving a foreigner, it was to be handled fairly—impartially, the foreigner was not to be misjudged, but treated as fairly as a native of the land. As Moses had instructed Israel:

Deuteronomy 1:16 “At that time I instructed your judges, ‘When you hear a case between your brothers, you are to judge with righteousness between a man and his brother or a foreign resident.”

How might issues involving immigrants or the increasing migrants at our border looking for a safe refuge be resolved adequately? Supposing God’s Kingdom was to begin rule first in this land, before gradually extending to other lands? How might this potentially grievous situation be handled?

FIRST , the case process needs to be streamlined. It is taking far too long to resolve many cases. The qualifications and standards to be met need to be clarified to all, that they may have all necessary information in order and receive judgment more quickly. Would it not be reasonable for any who wish to apply to enter this country legally to be able to be heard in a matter of weeks at most, and have a resolved case within a week or two afterward? Let’s streamline the process early on, so the cases do not unnecessarily drag out.

NEXT , it will take some time to reduce the caseload. We need additional experienced or qualified judges to handle more cases, to speed up this process. While taking some time, even several years, certain cases may still be earmarked for more urgent attention, as with those in special need of refuge. It really shouldn't take this long, but let’s set a maximum goal of 8 years time to resolve all cases, until most every case can be handled in a matter of 1-2 weeks time. Let’s find all those recently retired judges who are now receiving their due social security payments, who are willing to come back for a time, receiving wages along with their SSI payments, to reach a total of 110% of their former wage before retirement. Any who would come back for 4 years may receive this wage for that entire time. Thus there may be some monetary incentive to returning to help with this caseload, but should still be considered a labor of love. Also, let those judges who are in their last 4 years of service consider as well extending their work for an additional 4 years, at 110% of their wages at the time they would otherwise be retiring. Thus, there can be, with God’s blessing, an adequate number of experienced judges to handle the additional caseload.

THEN , where are they to work, when the normal legal process must take place in the courts during the day? Why not arrange for a night court to handle these additional cases, in the same courtrooms as being used in the daytime? Additional security can be hired and provisions put in place to reasonably handle this new arrangement. The number of additional judges should not exceed the available courtroom space for night-time work.

HOW will all this be paid for? Remember, most of those wishing to immigrate to this land are coming from a place of meager means—often they are barely able to feed their families. Getting even a menial job in this land can be far more lucrative than employment in their former land. Why not require family heads to pay a percentage of their wages over 5 years time, gradually reducing the amount each year, until they are free of such? Let’s start with 10% the first year, then drop to 8% the next, and so on until the fifth year they need only give 2%. This will not only pay for the additional judges and costs of running the night court system, but may also make possible a fund for some sort of social intervention where needed in some cases. This 5-year time is evidently also the minimum time someone must hold a green card before they may qualify to become a U.S. citizen. Thus when they’ve paid their last dues, they know they now meet at least that part of the criteria.

ALSO , during the time that a family’s case comes up to be heard, and is ongoing, why not take this opportunity to educate this family as regards the laws and value system of our country? We might ensure computer/internet access and a series of instructional tutorials etc. to accomplish this. After all, God required foreign residents of Israel to keep the same laws, and suffer the same penalties for violating them. Thus, they will need to learn these things to live in our land, and abide by such. Thus, God instructed Israel:

Deuteronomy 31:12 Gather the people together, the men, the women, the children, and your foreign resident who is within your cities, in order that they may listen and learn about and fear Jehovah your God and take care to carry out all the words of this Law.

CONCLUSION

JUSTICE. While other aspects of immigration also need to be addressed, certainly a program such as this could be a fine starting point for dealing with the current situation. Why, there may even be enough money in the immigration fund to assist with payment of a hotel stay for those having their cases heard in the court. And no doubt some of them are eager to get to work--we might even have some perform duties during their stay, to acknowledge their work ethic, and disprove any ideas that immigrants are somehow lazy. This may result in a new hotel chain, for highly clean and inexpensive nightly or even weekly stays for those in need of such accommodations. God’s Kingdom will no doubt lovingly address all such issues in an adequate way, that the conditions foretold for the earth can become a reality—a lovely just and peaceful Paradise, both spiritually, and physically!

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

Week 8:
ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIPS

Philippians 4:5 “Let your reasonableness become known to all men. The Lord is near.”

Hebrews 13:4a “Let marriage be honorable among all...”


MARRIED LIFE. For true Christians generally, God’s word throughout encourages married life.[For those struggling with such a view of marriage, the paragraph headed “OTHER SITUATIONS” below may contain some helpful information.] While the apostle Paul once recommended singleness, he was then speaking to original anointed Christians with the heavenly calling, as their circumstances would change sometime after their death. Even at that, marriage while on earth was still an option. For God’s eternal universal purpose, clearly marriage may be considered a gift—to share life’s experiences with a beloved married companion. Who will be your partner, as we clean up our planet, and welcome our ancestors back to life on earth? Who will this partner be if afterward, God wishes you to start a family, even elsewhere in the universe? Supposing there is nothing interfering with the typical romantic feelings experienced by men and women, we might ask: What of one nearing marriageable age—a young man or a young woman?

YOUNG MEN. Considering a restored standard of marriage for most every person, trusting God to help one find a suitable partner, or to help two near marriage to take that step, how might we view the growth process in preparation for this potentially joyful relationship? A young man who is able to work to support himself, upon reaching a marriageable and responsible age, might choose to leave his parents’ home and begin to find and manage a home of his own. He could certainly have begun preparing for such a step years before, with the help of parents and others. All such men should learn how to manage their own home, as they will need to do this well in the caring of a wife and children. If he has not yet found a suitable wife, or a woman that is yet ready to take the step of marriage, how might he proceed? If he has a well-paying job that can support him alone and the paying of taxes for a single person, he may choose this course, while looking for the one to become his wife. However, many young men find it a challenge to rent a place or even pay mortgage on a home early in their working careers.

PARTNERSHIPS. What if two such men, perhaps already friends, neither yet having a marriage relationship, could take a stance as partners—let’s call them “Term Growth Partners.” One could take the lead in finding and paying for the home, being the primary owner or renter, while both work and contribute financially to the home and various expenses and needs that come up. Both are learning or practicing skills necessary for the management of a home that will be essential to begin a marriage and family. Neither one should practice laziness or shirk responsibility. Both should contribute almost equally for the benefit of one another, learning to be considerate of others as if having a family of one’s own. Why not allow such T.G.Partners to receive a tax credit similar to that of married folk, as these men are seeking and readying themselves for this relationship? And if they qualify, why not allow these responsible men even, if they wish, to foster a child who is without loving parents, either a young boy or girl, as long as one of the two men take primary responsibility for the child, and continue looking for a suitable wife, as a mother to the precious child? It should probably be the owner of the home, or primary renter, that be the responsible caregiver and provider for the child, but both should qualify to provide responsible care for the child in this partnership. Once again, a tax credit should be provided as in a family situation.

YOUNG WOMEN. What about a young woman, who herself has reached a marriageable and responsible age, and yet has not found a suitable partner? Why must she be burdened with the care and management of a home, that most young men are already preparing themselves for? Why shouldn’t the young woman remain, if possible, with her parents at their home, while perhaps finding suitable work, also practicing the skills that will be beneficial in support of her husband and children, when she finds him, with God’s blessing? With work, she may contribute to the parents’ expenses while hopefully having something to save for her own family’s needs in the future. This arrangement would prevent unnecessary burdens and expenses on the would-be new family, once she finds a suitable marriage partner! She may have been able to save up more for the family, that otherwise may have been lost to rent or mortgage costs. What does a new family do with two homes, two mortgages, or two rented properties—how much work goes into selling one of them, selling and/or consolidating furniture and other items accumulated in each home? Of course, this must be done in the case of those already on their own, and it may be considered a task helping the two to work out any differences fairly and agreeably between them. However, if the young woman can be free from such unnecessary burdens, how much more easily will be the transition to married life! Perhaps depending on her work situation, she may or may not be considered a dependent for tax purposes, the parents possibly receiving a tax credit to make up for the added expenses associated with her stay. Either way, this would appear to be the most beneficial situation for a young woman looking to marry. Evidently, “Philip the evangelizer” was able to support his four virgin daughters, even as they shared with him in the Christian ministry. (Acts 21:8-9). There are many examples throughout the Scriptures of women remaining at home until marriage—if this is possible in a given situation, we’ve seen many advantages to this. (Genesis 24; 29).

A PRECIOUS CHILD. Considering the foregoing, might there be adequate young families to care for a child who may have been born to a mother that is unwed and is not yet adequately prepared to raise him or her, if there are no relatives in a position to accept this responsibility either? Even if the child was conceived in rape or incest, is he or she not still a precious life? Certainly every precaution should be taken to prevent such a situation, but in the case that it does occur, how does God feel about any child conceived in or out of wedlock, according to His inspired word? Even God’s servant David wrote about his pre-birth self, in Psalm 139.

Notice verses 13-16: “13 For you produced my kidneys; You kept me screened off in my mother’s womb.14 I praise you because in an awe-inspiring way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, I know this very well.15 My bones were not hidden from you When I was made in secret, When I was woven in the depths of the earth.16 Your eyes even saw me as an embryo; All its parts were written in your book Regarding the days when they were formed, Before any of them existed.”

EVEN “AS AN EMBRYO.” David refers to his time in the womb of his mother, and even as an embryo, before any body parts even existed! It was still David, who would go on to become King of Israel! There is another Bible passage, in the Mosaic Law, that reveals God’s view of an unborn child. This is found at Exodus 21:22-23:

“22 “If men should struggle with each other and they hurt a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely but no fatality results, the offender must pay the damages imposed on him by the husband of the woman; and he must pay it through the judges. 23 But if a fatality does occur, then you must give life for life”

GOD’S VIEW OF THE UNBORN. Yes, the unborn child was considered a life to God, such that if it was harmed before birth, the one causing the harm was even to die, if the child died as a result, according to the principle of eye for an eye, and in this case, life for a life. The purpose of such a strong penalty is so that those knowing the Law would AVOID becoming guilty of such things, so as NOT to receive such a harsh outcome. But as mentioned this reveals God’s view of the unborn child—just as much a life or a person as the one causing harm to a pregnant woman. Many women have suffered emotional pain after going through an abortion procedure—why not rather have this precious child, and give it up for adoption if the mother or a relative is yet unready to care for him or her? Yes, God did increase the pain of pregnancy after sin entered the human family, but it wasn’t done so as to prevent a woman from giving birth—it can be a tremendous bonding experience, even talking to or reading to the child before birth. And that increase of pain may well be ending, as the start of God’s Kingdom nears! It may well be that many aborted children will be resurrected by God and Christ in the new world, that they may see the light of day and the love of their parents, if possible, having renewed appreciation for this gift of life! Let’s consider God’s gift of life sacred and precious, and do what we reasonably can to protect it!

OTHER SITUATIONS. Now, of course not everyone is in the same position as the young men and women mentioned previously. Many are happily married, and have families of their own. Of course, those with more experience in life and a strong Christian faith would also be suited to accept foster children, if their hearts were ready for such a gift. And why wouldn’t two older men, unmarried, qualify as T.G.Partners as well, having even more experience in life, each looking for a married partner, and also perhaps qualifying to care for a foster child, if desired? Also, as God’s Kingdom nears, His power will certainly be available upon the human family, manifested in various ways. He can, for instance, restore transgender persons back to their original gender, but this time with the proper feelings appropriate for them, as “male and female He [God] created them.” (Genesis 1:27; Matthew 19:4). Recall that humans are not just spirits—we are physiological creatures, affected by various chemical processes and substances, some of which could create imbalances or disturbances if left unchecked. Some petroleum and plastics molecules, for instance, mimic hormones such as estrogens. As discussed previously in another article, one such substance, a pesticide called atrazine, has been used on some 75% or more of corn crops in the U.S., and can cause male frogs to turn female! Just what effect could it be having on humans? There are similar chemicals no doubt having a similar effect on many, even from a young age. Jesus spoke of a time of “re-creation.” (Matthew 19:28). So why wouldn’t Jehovah God be able to restore precious humans to the condition He intended them to be in for their genuine happiness and satisfaction in life? And let the Kingdom investigate to find alternatives to things that would contribute to “ruining the earth.”

CONCLUSION

GENUINE HAPPINESS. With God’s unfolding eternal purpose in view, brought about through His Kingdom, He doubtless intends many, if not all persons, to be happily married, sharing life’s experiences with a beloved partner. Thus the exhortation to “let marriage be honorable among all...” (Hebrews 13:4). God and Christ are also reasonable and understanding of various factors inhibiting the proper feelings of some men and women toward one another, and can correct such matters. May even young men and women be blessed by God to prepare for married life, and then to find that suitable marriage partner, delighting in the joys associated with that precious bond of union. May all others likewise appreciate this gift of God, and come to bring their lives into harmony with God’s loving purpose for humans, that we may look forward to genuine happiness, in a new world of peace and righteousness, by God’s divine standards!

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

COME TO CONSENSUS CORNER

Week 10: ISSUE AFTER ISSUE ADDRESSED BY GOD’S KINGDOM: PROPER VIEW OF LAW

Psalm 1:2 “But his delight is in the law of Jehovah, And he reads His law in an undertone day and night.”

Joshua 1:8 “This book of the Law should not depart from your mouth, and you must read it in an undertone day and night, in order to observe carefully all that is written in it; for then your way will be successful and then you will act wisely.”

Jeremiah 31:33 “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days,” declares Jehovah. “I will put my law within them, and in their heart I will write it. And I will become their God, and they will become my people.”


NEED FOR LAW. The need for some code of law became apparent with time in man’s history. Before the advent of such laws, humans, closer to the perfection originally present in our first parents, Adam and Eve, generally lived by their consciences. Likely, discussions of right and wrong actions were among the conversations our first parents had with their children. It was possibly even before a law code existed that Joseph fled from having an adulterous affair with his Egyptian owner’s wife, saying “How could I commit this great badness and actually sin against God?” In the oral history handed down, he knew God had brought the first man and woman together in marriage, and at this, God’s word says: “That is why a man will leave his father and his mother and he will stick to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24). Thus respect for the covenant of marriage was engendered early on, especially among God-fearing persons.

AN EARLY CODE. One early law code was the code of Hammurabi. This was before the time of Moses. Hammurabi’s code laid down some 282 laws, having been written upon stone pillars within the kingdom of Babylon, so everyone would know the law. Hammurabi is known as the sixth king of Babylon, and is believed to have ruled between 1792 BCE and 1750 BCE. Hammurabi evidently did not write these laws, but brought together and organized existing laws. It became the standard of judgment throughout his empire. Of course, there were some similarities and differences when comparing his law to that of God’s law through Moses. Both codes stated, for instance, that kidnapping a child would bring the death penalty.*

WHY SEVERE PENALTIES? Why do such laws of man and even God, even today, have severe punishments associated with certain wrong actions? If everyone is aware of the law code, and know how severe the penalty would be for a specific harmful, criminal act, this should serve as a powerful deterrent from engaging in such conduct, thus enabling a peaceful existence to be maintained in society. Just as violating a law of physics, such as gravity, you know could mean your death, so serious moral laws should never be violated either. God reveals at 2Peter 3:9 that He “...is patient with you because he does not desire anyone to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.” Thus, He wants everyone to understand and respect His laws, which promote genuine peace and happiness among society. Hammurabi’s code even included death for robbery, while God’s law through Moses generally only required returning the item stolen, if possible, and added compensation, totaling up to four or even seven times the amount, depending on what it was. Thus, God’s law was more reasonable in this case, while the penalty still serves to deter the crime. Also, God’s law promoted fairness and equality, whereas Hammurabi’s law considered a crime less serious if it was committed by one with higher social status. More than a crime against man, God’s law made it clear that crimes such as robbery were also being committed against God—who loves His human creation, and wants the peace and happiness of all. They thus were sins against God, requiring forgiveness by Him.

OTHER PURPOSES OF LAW. We’ve seen that laws can be set as a deterrent from bad actions. But laws can also promote and accentuate good practices and standards. It can be used to set certain payments for government, legal and business services, for instance. It can outline fair practices between entities, whether governmental, commercial, or personal. It can outline a path to help various peoples overcome some disappointing or failing circumstances, to regain their peace, security, prosperity, freedom and/or happiness after some disaster or unfortunate occurrence(s). Laws can thus be used for much good, and contribute to the above-mentioned conditions that human hearts long to experience and maintain. And contrary to the notion that laws are only restrictive, in truth law can even protect various freedoms that promote such happiness among humanity. God’s word reveals that “where the spirit of Jehovah is, there is freedom!” (2Cori 3:17). And James speaks of God’s law as a “perfect law that belongs to freedom.” He writes: “But the one who peers into the perfect law that belongs to freedom and continues in it has become, not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work; and he will be happy in what he does.” (James 1:25). Thus, God’s law can promote wise and good conduct, and help those who adhere to it act with greater wisdom, and find greater happiness. Psalm 19:7-8 says: “7 The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring strength. The reminder of Jehovah is trustworthy, making the inexperienced one wise. 8 The orders from Jehovah are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice; The commandment of Jehovah is clean, making the eyes shine [“enlightening the eyes”, AMP].” Therefore, God’s commands support truth and true worship in a way that enables obedient ones to find wisdom and joy, to see more clearly where they are on the path of life, and where they are going.

WHAT OF THE RANSOM? Therefore, the ransom of Christ, while a merciful gift of God, does not do away with law, but rather establishes it. It is having faith, or deep trust, in that merciful provision for forgiveness that enables ones to gradually grow to greater adherence to the law of God. With a deep faith in God and His word and law, we are moved to respond to God’s love by loving Him in return. And 1John 5:3 explains: “3 For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” Thus by such faith in God’s love, seeing God’s law as a way to know how to love Him in return, true righteousness is made possible, even a complete obedience of the heart of a person. This was not always understood. Some Jews felt that their own circumcision of the flesh itself gave them divine favor. Romans 3:23-24, 29-31 says: “23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and it is as a free gift that they are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus...29 Or is he the God of the Jews only? Is he not also the God of people of the nations? Yes, also of people of the nations. 30 Since God is one, he will declare circumcised people righteous as a result of faith and uncircumcised people righteous by means of their faith. 31 Do we, then, abolish law by means of our faith? Not at all! On the contrary, we uphold law.” Likewise, for true Christians, baptism itself is not an automatic sign of divine favor, but it is a “request made to God for a good conscience.” (1Peter 3:21). Holding a good conscience, that is eagerly trained by God’s word, with an obedient and loyal heart, brings divine approval, not as something we earn, but as a free gift, by God’s kindness, through the ransom of Christ.

CONCLUSION

FAITH IN GOD AND HIS LAW. Jesus when on earth taught many principles of divine truth, that aid one to understand God and His ways better, so as to WANT to live by them. Christ’s teachings help us to address our loyalty and faithfulness to God in a heartfelt way, becoming obedient from the heart to God’s standards and laws, promoting true peace, righteousness, and happiness. May we therefore come to delight in the law of God, as others throughout history, and look forward to God’s favored blessings and rewards. This requires faith, or deep trust, in Him, as explained at Hebrews 11:6: “6 Moreover, without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” God’s Kingdom will thus help people to comprehend God’s law in a way that they can understand and live by it, seeing it’s wisdom and value in their life. Perhaps books will be published, with the aim of addressing a certain aspect or topic of God’s law, revealing insight into how it functions to contribute to earth-wide or even universal peace, security, prosperity, freedom, and happiness. They can be written with warmth and understanding, in “plain English” so-to-speak, in a way that may bring delight and satisfaction. May we continue learning of God’s perfect law, that we may live by it, respecting His law and His Son’s teachings, thus honoring our loving God and Father, Jehovah, as the rightful Sovereign of the Universe.

* WORLD HISTORY for Christian Schools, 1984 ed. pp. 24-25