The one showing favor to the poor one is glorifying [his Maker].—Prov. 14:31.

One aspect of the Mosaic Law that reflected God’s concern for his people’s welfare was the right to glean. The law on gleaning did not stipulate how much produce farmers were to leave for the needy. It was up to them whether the borders of unreaped grain around the edges of their fields would be wide or narrow. In this, the arrangement taught generosity. It gave farmers the opportunity to show their appreciation to the Provider of the harvest. Boaz was one who did so. He kindly made sure that Ruth, a widow who gleaned in his fields, would collect a good quantity of grain. Jehovah amply rewarded Boaz for his generosity. (Ruth 2:15, 16; 4:21, 22; Prov. 19:17) The principle behind the law on gleaning has not changed. Jehovah expects his servants to be generous, especially toward the needy. The more generous we are, the greater our blessings will be.—Luke 6:38. w 6/15/06 11-13

YESTERDAY'S:
Jehovah is good to all.—Ps. 145:9.

In addition to working “what is good toward all” by preaching, shepherds have the responsibility to work what is good “especially toward those related to [them] in the faith.” (Gal. 6:10) One way they do this is by making encouraging shepherding visits. At times, shepherds may suggest ways in which an individual can improve in his service to Jehovah. In doing so, wise shepherds imitate the apostle Paul. Consider the way he appealed to the brothers in Thessalonica: “We have confidence in the Lord regarding you, that you are doing and will go on doing the things we order.” (2 Thess. 3:4) Such expressions of confidence appeal to the good inclinations of the sheep and make it easier for them to “be obedient to those who are taking the lead.” (Heb. 13:17) When you receive an encouraging shepherding visit, why not express appreciation for it and do your best to apply the suggestions offered? w 5/1/06 15, 16