Jehovah’s people love to help one another. (2 Cor. 8:4) However, at times, it takes courage to do so. For example, when a war breaks out, the local elders realize that their brothers and sisters need encouragement, support, and perhaps spiritual or physical provisions. Out of love for the sheep, the elders put their own safety at risk in order to provide what is needed. In such circumstances, it is important that we remain united. Cooperate with the direction from your local branch office. (Heb. 13:17) Elders should regularly review local arrangements for disaster preparedness as well as organizational direction on what to do when a disaster is imminent. (1 Cor. 14:33, 40) Be courageous but cautious. (Prov. 22:3) Use common sense. Do not take unnecessary risks. Rely on Jehovah. He can help you to assist your brothers safely. w24.07 4 ¶8; 5 ¶11

King David knew Jehovah and relied on Him. When pursued by his enemies, including King Saul, David prayed to Jehovah for help. After God answered his prayer and rescued him, David declared: “Jehovah is alive!” (Ps. 18:46) With these words, David was not merely acknowledging that God exists. One reference work notes that David was expressing confidence in Jehovah “as a living god who constantly acts on behalf of his people.” Yes, David knew from personal experience that his God was alive, and that conviction renewed his determination to serve and praise Jehovah. (Ps. 18:28, 29, 49) Our being convinced that Jehovah is the living God can help us to serve him with zeal. We will have the strength to endure trials and the motivation to continue working hard in his service. We will also be determined to remain close to Jehovah. w24.06 20-21 ¶3-4

What can we learn from the apostle Paul’s words to the Thessalonians? When we hear something that does not harmonize with what we have learned from the Bible or when we hear a sensational rumor, we need to use discernment. In the former Soviet Union, our enemies once circulated a letter that was allegedly from world headquarters. The letter encouraged some of the brothers to form a separate, independent organization. The letter itself appeared to be genuine. But faithful brothers were not fooled. They realized that the message the letter contained did not line up with what they had been taught. Today, enemies of the truth sometimes use modern technology in an effort to confuse and divide us. Rather than be “quickly shaken from [our] reason,” we can protect ourselves by considering whether what we hear or read is in harmony with the truths we have already learned.​—2 Thess. 2:2; 1 John 4:1. w24.07 12 ¶14-15