LESSON 58 — The Destruction of Jerusalem
Who was Nebuchadnezzar?
Nebuchadnezzar was the king of Babylon, a very strong power that was conquering many nations one after another.
Jehovah allowed Nebuchadnezzar to have power because He was going to use him as an instrument to punish Judah for its idolatry.
Although Nebuchadnezzar did not worship Jehovah, he was used by God to fulfill His purposes for discipline.
What did he do to the city of Jerusalem?
Nebuchadnezzar besieged the city for more than a year until the people ran out of food and strength.
His army entered Jerusalem, burned it, destroyed Jehovah's temple, and carried away the treasures.
He killed many people and deported thousands of Jews to Babylon, leaving the city practically in ruins.
Who was Zedekiah?
Zedekiah was the king of Judah whom Nebuchadnezzar had placed on the throne after taking away the previous king.
At first, he obeyed Babylon, but later he allowed himself to be influenced by false prophets and rebelled.
He refused to listen to Jeremiah's advice, and his disobedience brought grave consequences for him and for the people.
What does this account teach us about Jehovah?
Jehovah is patient, but he does not tolerate constant disobedience. For many years he sent prophets to warn the people, but since they did not listen, Jehovah allowed punishment to come. This teaches us that Jehovah gives many opportunities, but he also acts when there is no repentance.
Jehovah fulfills what he announces. Everything that Jeremiah had prophesied regarding the destruction was fulfilled exactly, showing that Jehovah's words are always true and certain.
Jehovah uses even nations that do not worship him to fulfill his will. Nebuchadnezzar was not a servant of Jehovah, but he was still used as an instrument to correct Judah.
Jehovah is just in his decisions. The destruction was not an unjust punishment, but the result of many years of idolatry, rebellion, and rejection of his warnings.
Jehovah does not abandon his people forever. Although he allowed the destruction, he also promised that after 70 years he would lead them back to their land, showing that his discipline always has a purpose of restoration.
Practical lessons for our lives
Ignoring spiritual advice brings consequences. Judah mocked the prophets and did not listen, and that led them to ruin. We learn to value Jehovah's advice before it is too late.
Surrounding ourselves with bad influences can lead to poor decisions. Zedekiah allowed himself to be guided by false prophets and other countries instead of listening to Jehovah. This reminds us to choose carefully whom we listen to.
Obedience protects. Jeremiah said that surrendering would save the city, but Zedekiah did not want to obey. Obeying Jehovah, even when it seems difficult, is always the safest path.
The decisions of leaders affect many. Zedekiah's rebellion did not only harm him but the entire nation. This teaches us to be responsible with our decisions.
Jehovah disciplines, but he also gives hope. Although Jerusalem was destroyed, Jehovah promised to restore the people. This encourages us to trust that, even after serious mistakes, Jehovah can provide a new beginning.
LESSON 59 — Four Boys Who Obey Jehovah
Why did Daniel and his three friends obey Jehovah?
Because they knew that Jehovah’s Law prohibited eating certain foods, and they did not want to disobey him even though they were far from their country and under pressure.
They wanted to remain faithful to Jehovah even if it meant being different from the other young men in the palace.
Their primary desire was not to please the king, but to please Jehovah and maintain a good conscience before Him.
How did Jehovah help them?
Jehovah caused them, after 10 days, to look healthier and stronger than the other young men who ate the king’s food.
Jehovah gave Daniel special wisdom to understand dreams and visions, something that no other young man possessed.
Jehovah caused King Nebuchadnezzar to consider them more intelligent than all the other wise men and to choose them to work in the court.
What does this account teach us about Jehovah?
Jehovah rejoices when his servants are obedient, even in difficult situations. Daniel and his friends were far from home, without the support of their families, but Jehovah saw their faithfulness and was pleased with them.
Jehovah can protect those who put his commands first. Although it seemed risky to reject the king’s food, Jehovah cared for them and made them prosper.
Jehovah gives wisdom to those who trust in Him. He not only kept them healthy but gave them superior intelligence to handle important responsibilities.
Jehovah does not abandon his servants even when they are in an environment that does not honor him. Even while living in Babylon, Jehovah was with them at all times.
Jehovah rewards faithfulness with real blessings. Thanks to their obedience, Daniel and his friends received positions of trust and respect.
Practical lessons for our lives
Obeying Jehovah is more important than pleasing people. Daniel and his friends could have given in out of fear, but they chose to be faithful. We also face pressures, and this account teaches us to stand firm.
Being faithful to Jehovah sets us apart in a positive way. They were different, but that did not hurt them; on the contrary, it made them stand out. Today, our Christian conduct can also be a fine witness.
Jehovah can help us resist bad influences. Although they were surrounded by Babylonian customs, they did not let themselves be dragged along. This encourages us not to copy what does not please Jehovah.
Obedience brings long-term blessings. At first, it seemed like a small decision, but over time Jehovah blessed them with wisdom and good opportunities.
Young people can be spiritual examples. Daniel and his friends were very young, but they showed mature faith. This teaches that age does not prevent one from being faithful to Jehovah.