Spiritual Gems in Isaiah chapter 60

Jehovah tells his people: "Rise up... shed light." This teaches me that even though the world is sunk in dense spiritual and moral darkness, we have the responsibility to reflect Jehovah's light. We cannot remain with folded arms; being a better Christian means being active in sharing Bible truths that bring hope to those who live in darkness.

The text says that "Jehovah will shine" upon us. This reminds me that our light is not our own, but that we reflect his glory. It moves me to maintain clean conduct and a positive attitude so that others can see that serving Jehovah truly makes a difference in a person's life.

Jehovah invites us to "raise your eyes and look all around." At times, we focus so much on our personal problems that we forget the wonderful growth of the worldwide brotherhood. Seeing how thousands of people get baptized and join the organization each year fills me with joy and helps me view my difficulties from a more optimistic perspective.

The prophet asks: "Who are these who come flying just like a cloud, like doves to their dovecotes?" This gem describes the speed and peace with which meek people come to Jehovah's organization seeking refuge. It motivates me to become a better teacher in the ministry so I can help such people quickly find the spiritual "dovecote" where they will be safe.

Jehovah promises that the gates of his organization "will be kept open constantly." This teaches me that Jehovah is an inclusive God and that the opportunity for salvation is available at all times. In the congregation, we should imitate this attitude by always being hospitable and ready to welcome with open arms anyone who wants to seek God.

Jehovah promises to make his people a "source of eternal pride." It is amazing to think that Jehovah feels proud of his loyal servants. This gem teaches me that even if the world treats us with disrespect, what really matters is how Jehovah sees us. It moves me to stay faithful so that he can always feel proud to have me as his servant.

Jehovah promises to bring "gold instead of copper" and "silver instead of iron." This describes the constant improvements in the way God's people are organized. It teaches me that we should be adaptable and wholeheartedly support all the changes the organization makes, trusting that they are always meant to improve our worship.

This verse says that Jehovah will appoint "peace as your overseers" and "righteousness as your task assigners." What a blessing it is to serve in an organization where those taking the lead strive to be peaceful and just. This gem moves me to cultivate these qualities in the way I treat my brothers and sisters, thus contributing to the peace of the congregation.

Jehovah guarantees that "violence will no more be heard in your land." This is a wonderful promise for the new world, but we already enjoy it in part within our worldwide brotherhood, where we have learned to put down weapons and hatred. It helps me value the spiritual security we have among Jehovah's people.

Calling the walls "Salvation" and the gates "Praise" teaches me that our true protection is our relationship with Jehovah. Being within the boundaries of the organization, where God is always praised, is the safest place we can be.

Jehovah calls his people "the work of my hands, to beautify me." That makes me feel very special. It teaches me that our conduct and our faith do not benefit only us, but also serve to make others speak well of Jehovah. Being a better Christian is one way to "beautify" the name of our heavenly Father.

This is one of the best-known promises: "The little one will become a thousand." It teaches me that Jehovah can do great things with people who seem insignificant in the eyes of the world. It moves me not to underestimate my service, no matter how small it may seem, because Jehovah can multiply it for his glory.

The phrase "I myself, Jehovah, will speed it up in its own time" teaches me to trust God's timetable. At times, we would like things to happen faster, but Jehovah knows exactly when the right time is. It helps me to be patient and to keep working hard while Jehovah speeds up the gathering work in these last days.