Have you carefully read this year’s issues of The Watchtower?

How can we fight negative feelings?

We should maintain a good spiritual routine, prayerfully analyze our personal needs, and adapt our personal Bible study to those needs. By doing so, we can look to the future with confidence.​—w26.01, pp. 10-13.

When will the nations proclaim “peace and security”? (1 Thess. 5:3)

The proclamation may be made just before the destruction of false religion, or it may come after false religion is destroyed. We will have to wait and see what happens.​—w26.02, pp. 30-31.

What are some essentials to improve your art of teaching?

Try to understand the concerns of those whom you teach, direct them to God’s Word and to Jehovah, and be a good listener.​—w26.03, pp. 3-6.

What will help us to have the right view of adversity?

We need to accept that adversities are unavoidable in this system. Jehovah may allow them, but trials can teach us to depend on him, not on ourselves.​—w26.04, pp. 14-16.

How does Galatians 6:5 apply to decisions involving additional education?

Each one must carry his own load of responsibility, and in the case of minor children, parents will carry the load. Aspects to consider are one’s motives, the schedule required, the length, the location, the financial cost, and the work prospects.​—w26.05, pp. 15-18.

How can we benefit from our field service group?

One benefit is that we can be shepherded by the appointed group overseer. In addition, we can gain emotional and practical benefits by forming friendships with those in our service group.​—w26.06, pp. 18-19.

Why can we be encouraged by the thought found at Isaiah 38:17?

That text depicts God as throwing our sins behind his back. If we commit sins but repentantly seek his forgiveness, he will put our sins behind him. He will no longer see them or bring them up again.​—w26.07, p. 11.

In Bible times, what things occurred at city gates?

Markets were nearby, so people gathered and conducted business near the gates. Judges held court, and God’s representatives often presented his messages there.​—w26.08, p. 31.

Psalm 91 promises what sort of protection for God’s people?

Psalm 91 promises that God will protect his people spiritually. It is also a promise that Jehovah will protect his people as a group from physical and emotional harm at the hands of their enemies. During the war of Armageddon, Jehovah will provide that protection for his people not just as a group but also as individuals.​—w26.09, pp. 3, 7.

How does considering the day’s text benefit us?

Doing so helps us focus on Jehovah. It is a good use of our time, strengthening us to face the day’s troubles and to remain faithful. It helps us progress spiritually and prepare for future assignments.​—w26.10, pp. 25-27.

Elders can imitate what characteristics of literal shepherds in Bible times?

A shepherd was diligent in feeding and in caring for his sheep. He was dependable in checking on them and was brave in protecting them.​—w26.11, p. 9.

Why did Jesus tell his apostles to buy a sword? (Luke 22:36)

The night before his death, Jesus advised his apostles to carry a sword. He would use it as an object lesson to teach them that they were not to resort to violence when persecuted.​—w26.12, pp. 16-17.