How do you stay encouraged during these times?

[The Black Sheep]

I remember at the beginning of the pandemic I tried doing phone witnessing a couple of times, but I haven't done it in over a year and just consider talking to my acquaintances as my ministry. Same thing with being on camera and giving answers on the zoom meetings. I used to go out in service a couple times a month before the pandemic. This zoom crap really sucks the life out of me, it's just not the same. Not only that, but obviously the stance the GB has taken has been distasteful, to say the least. On top of it all, I lost my job just after the beginning of the pandemic (a "professional job") from which I have not been able to land another one (it doesn't look good being fired from this kind of job, and it is a very nepotistic field), and it looks like I will have to change careers. Most things that could have gone wrong have gone wrong. What are some things you do to stay encouraged? Thanks.

 

[Dorothea]

Prayer and study helps. Support from friends here. And as far as ministry, I have a blog I’m thinking to use more extensively to give a witness.

 

[יהוה_saves]

Dorothea is correct- lots of prayer, support, having someone to talk to - we are here for you- , understanding why this is happening - that is where Robert’s essays come in- knowing you are not alone. Adjusting your attitude- for example we are really in survival mode and that will become more apparent as time progresses. Keep praying, keep asking. Keep busy, don’t let your mind wander into the weeds, don’t panic.

I never adapted to Zoom either. I could never identify with those who commented at meeting about how great it is, that Jehovah really came through for JWs when he invented Zoom for them- i just never believed that. I voiced my discontent for being isolated to the elders- they didn’t offer me any solace. Just that it must mean there was something wrong with me that needed adjustment. I never felt cared about. only judged.

 

[a watcher]

I do lots of prayer, meditation, and personal study. I have several hobbies that I spend a lot of time on. I try to go outside for a while nearly every day to get some exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. I eat well, sleep well, and keep myself healthy.

 

[SusanB]

I apologize if I am repeating myself, but what helped me was the 2021 year’s scripture, but include the first part of the scripture at Isaiah 30:15 “For this is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah, the Holy One of Israel, says: “By returning to me and resting, you will be saved; Your strength will be in keeping calm and showing trust.”….”. For me that encouraged me to not be too concerned about meeting deadlines for service reports or reports at all. First, strengthen yourself with a more accurate understanding of God’s word.

For me I am finding strenght through Robert’s book, Jehovah Himself Has Become King, a primer for the Apocalypse. But he also has many videos and commentaries. Most important look to the example of Jesus. He too was worshipping in what had become an apostate form of worship but yet it was still Jehovah’s organization. He didn’t hesitate to call them out as vipers, whitewashed walls, etc. Of course we cannot read hearts and cannot call people those names, but we can call out wrong ideas and wrong behavior. But carefully so we aren’t throwing pearls before swine. Just identify the wrong and reject it and accept the good. Matthew 23:3 is helpful to me where it says: “Therefore, all the things they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds, for they say but they do not practice what they say.“. After all, we are to be footstep followers of Jesus (Christians.)

It’s also a comfort to me to realize that Jesus was in the exact same position that we find ourselves today with a great upheaval to come and in his case leading to a refinement of religion. Fulfillment of the Law Covenant and instituting a new covenant leading to Christianity. We are at the brink of a similar change but of course it is yet to be revealed how it will actually happen and what the result will be. I think the important thing to come will be the choice between human rulership and God’s Kingdom. I am preaching online in a public forum different from this one where I occasionally comment. I feel that by quoting, explaining and showing the application of scriptures is planting a seed. It is up to Jehovah to make it grow. So, I am promoting knowledge of the Bible.

I drive for Uber and there are sometimes when I’m able to witness to riders. But I am careful, selective and I just point them to increase their bible knowledge. I have offered bible studies but don’t have any at the moment. Not sure what I’ll do if and when I have a bible study and when they are making progress, but again I’m sure I’ll be able to find something in the example of Jesus to follow. And, pray constantly to Jehovah. He has promised to help you and he personally hears your prayers. He does not delegate that to anyone else.

 

[MuleJule]

You are not alone in your feelings about zoom meetings and service. I sense that many are struggling. I would say a good 50% of my cong don't turn camera on or participate, and a small percentage do zoom service regularly. You can sense nobody is really happy. We feel disconnected, almost like the bond is vanishing.

Like others said, the things that are necessary to get through each day: prayer, very specific conversations with Jehovah about my concerns. These concerns have been pretty intense lately. Also study and meditation. I am branching out from the society's publications now, something I feared doing in the past. But whatever I research I always us the Bible as my foundation. I watch videos. Recently I am working through Robert King articles and videos, as well as Beroean Pickets. So far those are the only ones I resonate with. I am still a bit uncomfortable and struggle with feelings of betrayal (due to my conditioning), but I am exercising my free will to take in knowledge and use discernment along with God's word to try and figure it all out. I honestly feel like I am starting over, re-learning everything from a different perspective and it is both exciting and exhausting.

Other things that help me: exercise, eating healthy and rest (all easier said than done). Also getting out in nature every day and slowing down, noticing the trees, birds, sky, the smells, sounds - just being present and giving my mind a break. Keep a journal. The simple act of putting your thoughts in writing helps you untangle them. I have found it very beneficial to make gratitude a main part of journal entries. No matter how frustrating the day is, I think of the many things I am grateful to have and I put them in writing. It helps re-wire your brain to focus on the blessings instead of all the things that are going wrong. (The Holistic Psychologist on instagram / YouTube has really helped me overcome feelings of depression and helped me be in contol of my thoughts.)

Do something creative, try cooking something new, bake bread, try a new hobby. I took up making sourdough bread, gardening and raising chickens and it's been a great distraction! Pets are also a great way to add some joy to your life.

 

[SollaSollew]

I remember at the beginning of the pandemic I tried doing phone witnessing a couple of times, but I haven't done it in over a year and just consider talking to my acquaintances as my ministry. Same thing with being on camera and giving answers on the zoom meetings. I used to go out in service a couple times a month before the pandemic. This zoom crap really sucks the life out of me, it's just not the same. Not only that, but obviously the stance the GB has taken has been distasteful, to say the least. On top of it all, I lost my job just after the beginning of the pandemic (a "professional job") from which I have not been able to land another one (it doesn't look good being fired from this kind of job, and it is a very nepotistic field), and it looks like I will have to change careers. Most things that could have gone wrong have gone wrong. What are some things you do to stay encouraged? Thanks.

Take Your Life Back
Recommended reading for your question.

 

[Watchman]

Hey, Black Sheep. I know someone who is a recruiter who might be able to hook you up with a job. Shoot me an email if you are inclined. watchmanspost@gmail.com

 

[Sarah]

Dorothea is correct- lots of prayer, support, having someone to talk to - we are here for you- , understanding why this is happening - that is where Robert’s essays come in- knowing you are not alone. Adjusting your attitude- for example we are really in survival mode and that will become more apparent as time progresses. Keep praying, keep asking. Keep busy, don’t let your mind wander into the weeds, don’t panic.

I never adapted to Zoom either. I could never identify with those who commented at meeting about how great it is, that Jehovah really came through for JWs when he invented Zoom for them- i just never believed that. I voiced my discontent for being isolated to the elders- they didn’t offer me any solace. Just that it must mean there was something wrong with me that needed adjustment. I never felt cared about. only judged.

My husband (much more active than me) really can’t stand zoom. We bumped into a sister last year and he said how he misses the face to face meetings and field service, she really wasn’t nice in her manner and said that’s why zoom was provided and the more involved we are the less cut off we will feel..she just didn’t get it at all. He is definitely less active now, I don’t mention logging into the meetings I just hope he will see things for what they are soon

 

[יהוה_saves]

My husband (much more active than me) really can’t stand zoom. We bumped into a sister last year and he said how he misses the face to face meetings and field service, she really wasn’t nice in her manner and said that’s why zoom was provided and the more involved we are the less cut off we will feel..she just didn’t get it at all. He is definitely less active now, I don’t mention logging into the meetings I just hope he will see things for what they are soon

i like how your husband phrased it- instead of criticizing Zoom, he said what he meant- that he missed face to face meetings and service. Isn't that true of everyone? Shouldn’t it be?? for her to react indifferently and turn it on him for not being more involved in an AVATAR (really that’s what it boils down to, an AVATAR) says more about her. Keep helping him see the truth. He will see it.

 

[Sarah]

i like how your husband phrased it- instead of criticizing Zoom, he said what he meant- that he missed face to face meetings and service. Isn't that true of everyone? Shouldn’t it be?? for her to react indifferently and turn it on him for not being more involved in an AVATAR (really that’s what it boils down to, an AVATAR) says more about her. Keep helping him see the truth. He will see it.

My husband is very sociable, so yes misses contact..he never really has been into technology so struggles with it all. Yes she certainly wasn’t encouraging and felt like we were in the wrong and not embracing what Jehovah has provided

 

[יהוה_saves]

My husband is very sociable, so yes misses contact..he never really has been into technology so struggles with it all. Yes she certainly wasn’t encouraging and felt like we were in the wrong and not embracing what Jehovah has provided

so they really equate every single gov body decision with Jehovah himself! and the elderly will suffer because they will have fewer people to look after them. I’m just sickened by this. really.

2thess 2 really comes into clear focus- “ . . . so that he sits down in the temple of God, publicly showing himself to be a god.”

 

[Shekinah]

I remember at the beginning of the pandemic I tried doing phone witnessing a couple of times, but I haven't done it in over a year and just consider talking to my acquaintances as my ministry. Same thing with being on camera and giving answers on the zoom meetings. I used to go out in service a couple times a month before the pandemic. This zoom crap really sucks the life out of me, it's just not the same. Not only that, but obviously the stance the GB has taken has been distasteful, to say the least. On top of it all, I lost my job just after the beginning of the pandemic (a "professional job") from which I have not been able to land another one (it doesn't look good being fired from this kind of job, and it is a very nepotistic field), and it looks like I will have to change careers. Most things that could have gone wrong have gone wrong. What are some things you do to stay encouraged? Thanks.

Zoom is definitely not the same, it’s increasingly difficult to stay physically awake. I just mix with like minded brothers and sisters who are spiritually awake, I don’t see them in person either, which is a shame but we discuss what’s unfolding on the world scene. It helps encourage one another, as many of those are not vaccinated and feel like the black sheep. But constant prayer pouring your heart out to Jehovah Sharing with him your concerns, brings much peace especially when he answers your prayers

 

[יהוה_saves]

u

Zoom is definitely not the same, it’s increasingly difficult to stay physically awake. I just mix with like minded brothers and sisters who are spiritually awake, I don’t see them in person either, which is a shame but we discuss what’s unfolding on the world scene. It helps encourage one another, as many of those are not vaccinated and feel like the black sheep. But constant prayer pouring your heart out to Jehovah Sharing with him your concerns, brings much peace especially when he answers your prayers

how many would you estimate are not vaccinated in your congregation?

 

[Shekinah]

u

how many would you estimate are not vaccinated in your congregation?

From what I can tell all accept me, each one caving in under each video # update

 

[Shekinah]

I apologize if I am repeating myself, but what helped me was the 2021 year’s scripture, but include the first part of the scripture at Isaiah 30:15 “For this is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah, the Holy One of Israel, says: “By returning to me and resting, you will be saved; Your strength will be in keeping calm and showing trust.”….”. For me that encouraged me to not be too concerned about meeting deadlines for service reports or reports at all. First, strengthen yourself with a more accurate understanding of God’s word.

For me I am finding strenght through Robert’s book, Jehovah Himself Has Become King, a primer for the Apocalypse. But he also has many videos and commentaries. Most important look to the example of Jesus. He too was worshipping in what had become an apostate form of worship but yet it was still Jehovah’s organization. He didn’t hesitate to call them out as vipers, whitewashed walls, etc. Of course we cannot read hearts and cannot call people those names, but we can call out wrong ideas and wrong behavior. But carefully so we aren’t throwing pearls before swine. Just identify the wrong and reject it and accept the good. Matthew 23:3 is helpful to me where it says: “Therefore, all the things they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds, for they say but they do not practice what they say.“. After all, we are to be footstep followers of Jesus (Christians.)

It’s also a comfort to me to realize that Jesus was in the exact same position that we find ourselves today with a great upheaval to come and in his case leading to a refinement of religion. Fulfillment of the Law Covenant and instituting a new covenant leading to Christianity. We are at the brink of a similar change but of course it is yet to be revealed how it will actually happen and what the result will be. I think the important thing to come will be the choice between human rulership and God’s Kingdom. I am preaching online in a public forum different from this one where I occasionally comment. I feel that by quoting, explaining and showing the application of scriptures is planting a seed. It is up to Jehovah to make it grow. So, I am promoting knowledge of the Bible.

I drive for Uber and there are sometimes when I’m able to witness to riders. But I am careful, selective and I just point them to increase their bible knowledge. I have offered bible studies but don’t have any at the moment. Not sure what I’ll do if and when I have a bible study and when they are making progress, but again I’m sure I’ll be able to find something in the example of Jesus to follow. And, pray constantly to Jehovah. He has promised to help you and he personally hears your prayers. He does not delegate that to anyone else.

I have to say I read Roberts book “Jehovah himself has become King“, I actually listen to it often, it’s wonderful to look deeply into the scriptures and start to appreciate the true understandings of Gods word, instead of the errors the org taught as inspired truths. That Apostate Jerusalem was Christendom, no wonder so many will not acknowledge Jehovah’s judgement on the house of God, when they cleverly place the blame else where.

 

[יהוה_saves]

From what I can tell all accept me, each one caving in under each video # update

you said: . It helps encourage one another, as many of those are not vaccinated and feel like the black sheep.

i’m just wondering how many. you can’t be the only one! can you? tho that wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibilty. anything is possible anymore. /-:.

 

[Shekinah]

you said: . It helps encourage one another, as many of those are not vaccinated and feel like the black sheep.

i’m just wondering how many. you can’t be the only one! can you? tho that wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibilty. anything is possible anymore. /-:.

You don’t know my congregation anything the GB tells them, is not open for discussion, you just do it. The fear of being disliked is more powerful than doing what’s right. There’s sisters I talk to who are also the only non vaccinated in their congregation, with each video update more roll up their sleeve.

 

[יהוה_saves]

You don’t know my congregation anything the GB tells them, is not open for discussion, you just do it. The fear of being disliked is more powerful than doing what’s right. There’s sisters I talk to who are also the only non vaccinated in their congregation, with each video update more roll up their sleeve.

i understand. my congregation is the same way. i’m just wonder how many have not done it yet. but it sound like JWs are getting against their good judgment. that is very sad. i wonder how many have done any research into these mRNA shots.

 

[Shekinah]

i understand. my congregation is the same way. i’m just wonder how many have not done it yet. but it sound like JWs are getting against their good judgment. that is very sad. i wonder how many have done any research into these mRNA shots.

From what I have observed not many have researched, because they feel the society has done the work for them, as long as they’re told it’s free from blood they, they consider that it’s safe.