1) Why do many celebrations displease Jehovah?

Many celebrations may displease Jehovah if they promote values or practices that are contrary to His teachings. For instance, if a celebration involves excessive indulgence, dishonesty, or idolatry, it can be seen as disrespectful to Jehovah. Celebrations that focus on human pride or glorify individuals rather than God can also be problematic.

2) How does Jehovah feel about celebrations that give undue honor to humans?

Jehovah does not favor celebrations that give undue honor to humans because such actions can lead to idolatry and distract people from worshiping Him. When individuals are placed on a pedestal, it can diminish the reverence that is due to God alone.

3) What behavior can make celebrations unacceptable?

• Engaging in immoral or unethical activities.
• Promoting excessive pride or self-glorification.
• Disregarding the teachings of the Bible.
• Involving practices that are rooted in paganism or superstition.

4) What do we need to make sure of when deciding whether to celebrate a holiday?

When deciding whether to celebrate a holiday, we need to ensure that the celebration aligns with Jehovah's principles and does not conflict with His teachings. This involves examining the origins and practices associated with the holiday and considering whether they honor God.

5) What holidays are popular where you live?

This answer may vary depending on the location, but common holidays might include New Year's Day, Christmas, Easter, and national holidays.

6) Do you think those holidays please Jehovah?

This depends on the specific practices and values associated with each holiday. Some may honor God, while others may not.

7) What do both birthday celebrations have in common?

Both birthday celebrations mentioned in the Bible involve feasting and social gatherings that can lead to morally questionable decisions. They also illustrate how such celebrations can result in negative consequences, such as the beheading of John the Baptist.

8) Based on these Bible accounts, how do you think Jehovah feels about birthdays?

Based on these accounts, Jehovah may view birthdays with caution, especially if they lead to behaviors that conflict with His teachings or result in harm to others.

9) Why do we need to make sure of what is acceptable to Jehovah?

It is important to ensure that our actions and celebrations are acceptable to Jehovah because we want to live in a way that honors Him and aligns with His will. Understanding what pleases God helps us maintain our spiritual integrity.

10) How can we do so?

We can determine what is acceptable to Jehovah by studying the Bible, seeking guidance through prayer, and discussing our thoughts with fellow believers who share our values.

11) Based on this verse, should you tell your unbelieving family members that they cannot celebrate a holiday?

It may not be necessary to impose our beliefs on unbelieving family members. Instead, we can express our own choices respectfully while allowing them to celebrate as they wish.

12) What might you do to reassure your family that even though you will not celebrate with them, you love and appreciate them?

To reassure family members, we can spend quality time with them during the holiday season, engage in meaningful conversations, and express our love through small gestures or gifts outside of the celebration context.

13) How does this verse show that Jehovah wants us to be happy?

This verse indicates that Jehovah recognizes the importance of joy in our lives. It suggests that enjoying food and drink, while working hard, is a part of a fulfilling life, which reflects His desire for our happiness.

14) Do we need to celebrate popular holidays to do “what is good” to others?

No, we do not need to celebrate popular holidays to do good to others. We can show kindness and generosity in many ways that do not involve participating in specific holiday celebrations.

15) What kind of giving would make you happier—feeling obligated to give on a holiday or giving spontaneously?

Giving spontaneously often brings more joy because it is done out of genuine care and love, rather than obligation. This type of giving can be more meaningful and heartfelt.

16) Many Witnesses occasionally organize something special for their children and even surprise them with gifts. If you have children, what are some special things that you could do for them?

Some special things could include planning a fun outing, creating a memorable experience like a picnic or a day at the park, or surprising them with a thoughtful gift that shows you understand their interests.

17) What would you say to those who say: “A holiday’s origins don’t really matter. It’s about having a good time with family and friends.”?

I would suggest that while spending time with family and friends is important, we should also consider the values and origins of the holidays we celebrate. Understanding these aspects can help us make choices that align with our beliefs.

18) What questions can we ask to determine whether a celebration displeases Jehovah?

• Does the celebration promote values that are contrary to the Bible?
• Are there any practices involved that could be considered disrespectful to God?
• Does the celebration focus on human glorification rather than honoring God?

19) How can we help our family and friends to understand our decisions regarding holidays?

We can help them understand by sharing our beliefs and reasons respectfully, explaining how our choices align with our values, and demonstrating love and respect for their choices, even if they differ from ours.

20) How do you know that Jehovah wants us to be happy and to have fun?

We know Jehovah desires our happiness because the Bible encourages joy and celebration in appropriate contexts. Jehovah provides us with guidance that helps us find fulfillment and happiness in life.