Friday, October 19, 2012

Knowing thy enemy

Just a update with a few thoughts, to see if you have experienced the same as we have recently. We had several studies started during CO visit, Elaine had 1 given to her since I was with Bro. Lee when he started it. While the angels are helping us to find ones that may be sheep, some other forces take notice don't they? We are so used to setting up our calls on a weekly basis, we don't want to "bother" the HH.
However as FDS has stated that it may be advantageous to arrange to call sooner. Why? Many possible factors: the busy schedule most people have, relatives, sickness, work etc. But the most dangerous of all the potential threats is Satan and the demons. They see what response we get and will go to all lengths to thwart the seed from being planted & taking root. Waiting a week may not work anymore, if we can get back sooner. We are seeing very disturbing trends that can only be attributed to the demons being "on the watch" too. They are on a short time line and are determined to undermine, confuse, attack, subvert, and many other methods to stop the interest we find.
An example is on 1 call, at the 1st RV, the woman whose son & wife had encouraged her to start attending church again, split up there marriage and on the surface you'd think that would help the woman to see that what they had was not based on the truth. But it has caused such an upset that she can't focus on study, and the real interest she has. So we need to be like a nursing mother with our calls, especially when we 1st find that interest. We need to return as soon as possible, maybe next day, to keep the oxygen of that interest fanned so as to not have the flame of interest doused by the demons, with their efforts.  Peoples lives are at stake, and while we realize that we can only try to be the conduit for them to receive spiritual food, and enlightenment from slave class, it is ultimately up to them, we are not ignorant of Satans designs are we? 2 Cor, 2:5. Even tho referring to ones who erred, and not allowing them to be over-reached by Satan, in principle it surely applies to our knowledge of Satan's efforts. And of course stated by Jesus, Satan certainly has that intent to steal the seed before it has a chance to send down roots.
But of course we can only "plant", but the farmer doesn't stop there does he? Much effort goes to cultivating, fertilizing, weeding, watering etc. Much sweat, time & energy goes into that seed, and the hoped for growth. So while we can't force anyone to study, and follow thru with the interest they initially showed, we have to be like a "smart farmer", observe the "weather conditions" be aware of conditions and respond in time to help protect that little plant/seed.
Just some observations, feel free to add to these thoughts, and examples you have seen. Develop a "anti-enemy action plan" when we find those interested ones. Plant the truth deep and fast, and anticipate scenarios that we see happening. Be pro-active in protecting that seed. What extent did Jesus go to to teach and reach people? When he was tired he still saw them needy and responded, even putting himself out, by missing meals & sleep, & rest to feed them.
Looking forward to getting back in FD FT, this temp work ending so as to be out with friends again.
There certainly is nothing the world has to offer that compares to serving Jehovah FT, and with everything we have.
Love to all,
Tom & Elaine.

1 comment:

  1. Tom... Your zeal is infectuous. The young man with the broad smile, sweat streaming down his face, bundling his side and your side too, and still being able to oil the oscillators, is still around! Thanks for the field service tips, old friend.

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