You will not have a divine revelation to offer to the one needing encouragement, yet you can include positive thoughts from the Word of God, thoughts that focus on what the future holds."
Isn't the bible our most valuable divine revelation? The bible is much more than positive thoughts. How on earth can they say that we cannot share divine revelations from the bible, just positive thoughts? Talk about losing the plot.
So many times the WTBTS advises people to remind others of the promise of living in a beatiful garden in the future. This sounds lovely but it is not very practical in dealing with the here and now and the bible gives us so much more comfort than that.
Deuteronomy 31:8It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
Psalm 9:9The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Matthew 11:28-29 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Stillin, I agree with you, if we demonstrate the fruits of the spirit in dealing with others then we can be a real comfort to them and it is the fruits of the spirit that will lead us in knowing how to deal with a situation.
