Wednesday, April13

Keep abstaining ... from blood.Acts 15:29.

Any one of us could suddenly find ourselves facing the blood issue. Or a family member or dear friend could unexpectedly be confronted with the issue of whether to accept a blood transfusion or not. During such a crisis, decisions also need to be made regarding blood fractions and medical procedures. Therefore, it is very important to do research and prepare for a possible emergency. Along with prayer, such measures will help us to take a firm stand and avoid compromising on the matter. Surely we do not want to sadden Jehovahs heart by accepting something that his Word condemns! Many medical professionals and other advocates of blood transfusion appeal to people to donate blood in hopes of saving lives. However, Jehovahs holy people acknowledge that the Creator has the right to say how blood is to be treated. To him, any sort of blood is sacred. (Lev. 17:10) We must be determined to obey his law on blood. w14 11/15 2:10, 15

God made you alive.Eph. 2:1.

What a contrast there is between young servants of Jehovah and youths of this world! Many who do not serve Jehovah lead a self-centered way of life, focusing only on what they want. Some researchers call them Generation Me. By the way they talk and dress, they give evidence of disdain for the older generation, whom they view as not with it. That spirit is all around us. Thus, young servants of Jehovah find that it takes real effort to avoid it and to accept Gods view. Even in the first century, Paul found it necessary to urge fellow believers to avoid the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience and in which they at one time walked. (Eph. 2:2,3) Young ones who see the need to avoid that spirit and to work unitedly with all their brothers are to be commended. (Eph. 4:25) As we approach the end of this old world, working together unitedly will become ever more important. w14 12/15 3:3, 4

Those who [marry] will have tribulation in their flesh.1Cor. 7:28.

It is not unusual for married couples to experience some tribulation in their flesh. Why? Simply dealing with everyday troubles can strain marital ties. Hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and miscommunications caused by the imperfect tongue can be a challenge in the best of marriages. (Jas. 3:2, 5,8) Many couples also have difficulty in coping with demanding employment while caring for children. Stress and exhaustion make it difficult for some couples to take the time they need in order to strengthen their marriage. Their love and respect for each other may be eroded by financial difficulties, health problems, or other hardships. Furthermore, the foundation of what seemed to be a strong marriage can be undermined by the works of the flesh, such as sexual immorality, brazen conduct, hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, and dissensions.Gal. 5:19-21. w15 1/15 3:2

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