📌 NEXT WEEK AUGUST 10-16, 2026

Setting: Door to Door. Publisher: Mary. Householder: Ann.

Begin by discussing a current issue, then let the conversation naturally focus on what is most important to the person.

Mary: Good morning. I’m Mary. We’re visiting our neighbours today with a brief Bible thought. I know there’s been a lot of discussion lately about the rising cost of living. Many people are finding that everyday expenses keep increasing. Have you noticed that too?

Ann: Oh yes. Everything seems to cost more these days. You really have to think twice before buying anything.

Mary: That’s true. It’s affecting many families.

Ann: It certainly is.

Mary: It makes people wonder what things will be like in a few years.

Ann: It does, although, to be honest, that’s not what worries me the most.

Mary: Really?

Ann: My biggest concern is my mother. She’s been unwell for quite a while, and seeing her struggle has been much harder than worrying about prices.

Mary: I’m sorry to hear that, Ann. That must be very difficult for you and your family.

Ann: It has been. Some days she’s better, and other days she’s not. You just wish you could do more.

Mary: I can understand why that would be on your mind. Thank you for telling me.

Ann: It’s not always easy, but we’re taking it one day at a time.

Mary: I admire the way you’re supporting your mother. It shows how much you care about her.

One reason I enjoy talking to people is because the Bible doesn’t just discuss world conditions. It also gives hope to those dealing with personal challenges like the one you’ve described.

Ann: That’s something a lot of people need.

Mary: I agree. There’s a comforting promise at Revelation 21:4 that has encouraged many families. It explains that God’s purpose is to remove suffering, pain, and even death. Knowing that gives many people hope that what they’re experiencing now won’t last forever.

Ann: That’s a comforting thought.

Mary: I think so too. When someone we love is struggling, it’s reassuring to know that God hasn’t forgotten us and that he promises a future that’s very different from what we see today.

Ann: I suppose that’s why so many people find comfort in the Bible.

Mary: Yes. It doesn’t remove today’s problems straight away, but it does give us genuine hope and a reason to keep looking ahead.

Ann: I’d like to learn more about that.

Mary: I’d be happy to come back and show you a few more Bible promises that explain why we can be confident in that hope. It only takes a few minutes.

Ann: I’d like that.

Mary: Wonderful. Would about this time next week be convenient?

Ann: Yes, that would be fine.

Mary: Great. Thank you for taking the time to talk with me today, Ann. I really appreciated our conversation.

Ann: Thank you for stopping by, Mary.

Mary: You’re very welcome. I hope you and your mother have a good week.

Ann: Thank you. Goodbye.

Mary: Goodbye.

INFORMAL WITNESSING. Share a Bible truth from a brochure that meets the person’s needs.

Setting: Informal witnessing. Publisher: Mary. Person: Ann.

(Mary and Ann met briefly at a local park a few days earlier. During that conversation, Ann mentioned that she often wonders why there is so much suffering in the world. They happen to meet again while waiting at a bus stop.)

Mary: Hi, Ann! It’s nice to see you again.

Ann: Mary! What a surprise. How have you been?

Mary: I’ve been well, thank you. How about you?

Ann: Doing all right. It’s been a busy week.

Mary: I can imagine. I remembered our conversation the other day. You mentioned that you’ve often wondered why there’s so much suffering. I’ve thought about that a few times since then.

Ann: Yes, it’s a question I’ve never really found a satisfying answer to.

Mary: That’s understandable. Many people have asked the same question.

One thing I appreciate is that the Bible doesn’t ignore it. It actually explains why we see so much suffering today and, more importantly, why it won’t continue forever.

Ann: I’d be interested to know what it says.

Mary: There’s a section in one of our Bible study brochures called “Why Does God Allow Suffering?” I thought of it because it answers the very question you raised.

Ann: That sounds relevant.

Mary: It starts by looking at what the Bible says about why suffering exists. Then it explains what God is doing to bring it to an end. I found it reassuring because it doesn’t just tell us to accept things as they are. It gives us a reason to have hope.

Ann: I’d like to read something like that.

Mary: I’m glad. It’s written in a simple question-and-answer format, so it’s easy to follow.

Ann: That’s good. Sometimes long explanations can be difficult.

Mary: I feel the same way.

There’s also something else I thought you might appreciate. We use this same material in our free Bible study. Rather than simply reading through it, we discuss each question together, look at what the Bible says, and you can ask anything that’s on your mind.

Ann: So it’s not like sitting in a classroom?

Mary: Not at all. It’s just a relaxed conversation. We go at your pace, and we focus on the questions that matter to you.

Ann: That actually sounds comfortable.

Mary: I’m glad you think so. Since suffering was something you were already wondering about, I think you’d enjoy that section. Even one short discussion can help make sense of what the Bible teaches.

Ann: I’d be happy to try that.

Mary: Wonderful. If you’re free sometime next week, we could spend about fifteen minutes looking at that first question together.

Ann: Yes, I think I can do that.

Mary: Great. I’ll bring the brochure with me, and we can look at it together. If other questions come up, we can discuss those too.

Ann: Thank you, Mary. I’m looking forward to it.

Mary: You’re very welcome. I hope you have a good rest of your day.

Ann: You too. See you next week.

Making Disciples OPTION 1.

Help a Bible student who is working to overcome a harmful habit.

Setting: A Bible study. Publisher: Mary. Student: Ann.

Mary: Hi, Ann. It’s good to see you again. How has your week been?

Ann: It’s been okay. A little challenging, actually.

Mary: I’m sorry to hear that. Is there something specific that has been difficult?

Ann: Yes. I’ve been thinking a lot about what we discussed last time about making changes to please Jehovah.

Mary: I’m glad you’ve been thinking about it. How do you feel about the changes we talked about?

Ann: I really want to make them. I know they are the right thing to do. But there is one thing I’ve been struggling with.

Mary: I appreciate you sharing that with me.

Ann: I’m trying to stop smoking. I’ve tried before, but whenever I get stressed, I end up going back to it. Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever be able to overcome it.

Mary: Thank you for being honest with me, Ann. I can imagine that hasn’t been easy to talk about. But I want you to know that the fact you’re trying to change shows that you really do want to please Jehovah.

Ann: I do. I just feel discouraged when I fail.

Mary: I understand. When someone has had a habit for a long time, changing it usually takes effort and patience. A setback doesn’t mean you should give up.

Ann: That’s encouraging to hear.

Mary: Can I ask, when do you find it most difficult to resist?

Ann: Usually when I’m stressed or when I’m with certain friends who smoke.

Mary: That’s good that you’ve noticed those situations. Knowing what triggers the temptation can help you prepare before it happens.

Ann: I never really thought about preparing before those moments.

Mary: Maybe that could be one step. For example, if you know a stressful situation is coming, you could decide beforehand what you will do instead of smoking. You could also think about spending more time with people who support the changes you’re trying to make.

Ann: That makes sense.

Mary: Another thing that can help is talking to Jehovah about it. Have you been able to pray specifically about this struggle?

Ann: Sometimes, but maybe not as much as I should.

Mary: You might find it helpful to be very specific in your prayers. Tell Jehovah what situations are difficult for you and ask him to help you have the strength to make the right choice. Prayer won’t remove the need to work at it, but it can give you the strength and determination to keep going.

Ann: I like that. I think I need to rely on Jehovah more.

Mary: I think that’s a good goal. And remember, you don’t have to solve everything overnight. Each step you take shows Jehovah that you want to do what is right.

Ann: Thank you, Mary. I feel better knowing that I can keep trying and that Jehovah sees my efforts.

Mary: You’re welcome, Ann. I really appreciate your honesty today. Next time we meet, we can talk about how things have been going and what has helped you.

Ann: I’d like that.

Mary: Great. I’ll see you next time.

Making Disciples OPTION 2.

Help a Bible student who is working to overcome a harmful habit.

Mary: Hi, Ann. It’s good to see you again. How have you been this week?

Ann: I’ve been okay. A little busy, but I’m doing all right.

Mary: I’m glad to hear that. Last time we talked about how making changes to please Jehovah can bring us real happiness. How did you feel about what we discussed?

Ann: I liked it. I really want to keep making progress.

Mary: I can see that. You’ve been putting in effort, and I appreciate how honest you are during our discussions.

Ann: Thank you. I do want to make changes in my life.

Mary: That’s a good attitude. Sometimes when people learn what the Bible teaches, they want to make changes, but there can be certain things that make it difficult.

Ann: Yes, I know what you mean.

Mary: Can I ask you something? Is there anything you feel is making it harder for you to move forward?

Ann: Actually, yes. I’ve been struggling with an addiction that I’ve had for years. I know it’s something I need to stop, but sometimes I feel like I’m not making enough progress.

Mary: Thank you for trusting me enough to share that, Ann. I know that wasn’t easy to talk about.

Ann: Sometimes I feel disappointed in myself.

Mary: I understand why you would feel that way. But the fact that you want to change shows that your heart is in the right place. Jehovah sees the effort you’re making and the desire you have to do what is right.

Ann: I hope so. Some days are harder than others.

Mary: I understand. When someone is trying to overcome something that has become a habit, it usually takes time and effort. The important thing is not giving up.

Ann: That’s what I struggle with sometimes.

Mary: One thing that can help is thinking about practical steps. For example, have you noticed when the temptation is usually strongest?

Ann: Usually when I’m stressed or when I’m alone.

Mary: That’s helpful to recognize. Maybe you could prepare ahead for those moments. For example, when you feel that pressure, you could pray to Jehovah, read something encouraging from the Bible, or do something else that helps you move your mind away from the temptation.

Ann: I think preparing beforehand would help.

Mary: I think so too. And remember, you don’t have to make these changes alone. Jehovah wants to help you, and we can keep talking about what practical steps might work for you.

Ann: Thank you. I was worried you would think less of me.

Mary: Not at all. We all have areas where we need Jehovah’s help. What matters is that we keep trying and that we don’t hide the things we need to work on.

Ann: That makes me feel better.

Mary: I’m glad. Would you like us to look at one scripture before we finish today that shows how Jehovah helps those who rely on him?

Ann: Yes, I’d like that.

Mary: Great. And next time we meet, we can talk more about how you’ve been doing and what has helped you.

Ann: Okay. Thank you, Mary.

Mary: You’re welcome, Ann. I appreciate your honesty today.

AUGUST 3-9, 2026

HOUSE TO HOUSE, feature a video from the teaching tool box.

Setting: House to house.

Publisher: Good morning. I hope I’m not disturbing you.

Householder: No, you’re fine. I have a few minutes.

Publisher: Thank you. We’re visiting our neighbours with a brief encouraging thought. May I ask you a question?

Householder: Sure.

Publisher: When you think about the future, do you generally feel hopeful, or do you find yourself a little concerned?

Householder: To be honest, a little concerned. There always seems to be another problem somewhere in the world.

Publisher: I can understand that. It can be discouraging when the news is filled with one difficult story after another.

Householder: Yes. Sometimes I stop watching it because it just leaves me feeling more worried.

Publisher: I know what you mean. A lot of people have told me they feel the same way.

Householder: Exactly.

Publisher: That’s one reason I enjoy speaking with people about what the Bible says about the future. It gives a perspective that many people haven’t had the chance to consider.

Householder: Really?

Publisher: Yes. Rather than trying to predict what’s going to happen next, it explains God’s purpose for the earth and for us. We have a very short video called “What Is God’s Kingdom?” It takes less than two minutes. If you have a moment, I’d be happy to show it to you.

Householder: Yes, I can watch that.

Publisher: Thank you.

(The publisher shows the video “What Is God’s Kingdom?” from the Teaching Toolbox.)

Publisher: Thanks for taking the time to watch it. What part stood out to you?

Householder: I liked the part about God’s Kingdom being a real government. I hadn’t thought of it that way before.

Publisher: That’s the part that caught my attention too when I first watched it. It helped me understand why the Bible speaks so confidently about the future.

Householder: It does make you think.

Publisher: It certainly made me curious to learn more. I wanted to know why Jesus spoke so much about God’s Kingdom and what it will actually do for the earth.

Householder: Yes, I’d have those questions too.

Publisher: I’d be happy to show you the Bible’s answers another time. They don’t take long to discuss, and I think you’ll find them encouraging.

Householder: I’d like that.

Publisher: Wonderful. Would about this time next week be convenient for you?

Householder: Yes, that should be work.

Publisher: Great. Thank you for giving me a few minutes today. I really appreciate it, and I hope you have a lovely day.

Householder: Thank you. See you next week.

Publisher: I look forward to it. Goodbye.

5. Following Up

HOUSE TO HOUSE

Setting: The publisher returns after showing the video “What Is God’s Kingdom?” on the previous visit.

Publisher: Hello. It’s nice to see you again. I hope you’ve been keeping well.

Householder: Hello. Yes, thank you. It’s good to see you too.

Publisher: I’m glad to hear that. The last time we met, we watched the short video about God’s Kingdom and talked a little about the future. I’ve been wondering what you thought about it afterward.

Householder: I actually did think about it. I liked the idea that God’s Kingdom is a real government. I just wasn’t sure what it would actually do.

Publisher: That’s a good question. Many people wonder the same thing. What part made you curious?

Householder: I suppose I’d like to know if the Bible really says the world can become peaceful. Sometimes that feels impossible.

Publisher: I understand why you would feel that way. When we see so much conflict around us, it’s easy to wonder whether things will ever really change.

Householder: Yes, that’s exactly how I feel.

Publisher: That’s one reason I wanted to come back today. I brought the latest public Watchtower magazine, “Is World Peace Possible?” When I saw the title, I immediately thought about our conversation because you wondered whether lasting peace is really possible.

Householder: That sounds interesting.

Publisher: I think you’ll enjoy it. It explains what the Bible says in a simple way, and I believe it answers some of the questions you mentioned last time.

Householder: I’ll definitely read it.

Publisher: Wonderful. When I stop by next week, I’d really like to hear what you thought of it. If any questions come to mind while you’re reading, we can look at the Bible’s answers together.

Householder: I’d like that.

Publisher: Great. We also offer a free Bible study where we discuss subjects like this one at your own pace. There’s no pressure at all. We simply look at what the Bible says and you can ask whatever questions you have.

Householder: That sounds comfortable.

Publisher: I’m glad. Why don’t you enjoy the magazine first, and next time we can continue from there?

6. Talk

Theme: Jesus Is God’s Son

When people talk about Jesus, there are many different opinions. Some believe he was simply a good man. Others believe he was a prophet. Still others believe he is God himself. So, rather than relying on popular opinions or traditions, it’s reasonable to ask, What does the Bible actually say?

The answer is clear. The Bible repeatedly identifies Jesus as God’s Son.

For example, at Matthew 16:16, the apostle Peter said to Jesus: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus didn’t correct Peter or tell him he had misunderstood. Instead, he commended him for giving the right answer. That helps us see that recognizing Jesus as God’s Son is an important Bible truth.

Why does that matter to us today?

Because understanding who Jesus really is helps us appreciate the unique role Jehovah has given him. Jesus was sent by his Father to teach us the truth, set the perfect example, and make it possible for us to have the hope of everlasting life. None of those blessings would be possible without him.

That brings us to another well-known scripture, John 3:16. It says: “For God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.”

Notice how this verse distinguishes between God and his Son. It says God gave his Son. That simple statement tells us two things. First, Jehovah is the Giver. Second, Jesus is the One who was lovingly sent. Understanding that relationship helps us appreciate the depth of Jehovah’s love. He willingly gave what was most precious to him so that we could have the opportunity to enjoy everlasting life.

Knowing that Jesus is God’s Son is more than just understanding a Bible teaching. It should strengthen our faith and draw us closer to both Jehovah and Jesus. When someone gives us an expensive gift, we naturally appreciate the giver as well as the gift itself. In a much greater way, Jehovah gave us his beloved Son because he loves us deeply.

The apostle John highlighted this truth at 1 John 4:15, where he wrote: “Whoever acknowledges that Jesus is God’s Son, God remains in union with such a person and he in union with God.” Those words remind us that accepting what the Bible teaches about Jesus is closely connected with having a good relationship with Jehovah.

So, how can we show that we truly believe Jesus is God’s Son? We can continue learning about him, imitate his example, and follow his teachings. As we do, our love for Jehovah grows because Jesus always directed attention to his Father, never to himself.

As we’ve seen, the Bible leaves no doubt about who Jesus is. He is the promised Messiah, the one whom Jehovah lovingly sent for our benefit, and the Son of God. When we keep that truth clear in our minds, our faith becomes stronger, our appreciation for Jehovah’s love grows deeper, and our confidence in the hope Jesus made possible continues to grow.