March 2021

Hard Things? Seven Laws of Success — P. 12 —

— P. 5 —

March 2021 | TomorrowsWorld.org

THE RISE OF THE NEW GODS THE ANCIENT, HEATHEN “GODS” OF OLD HAVE BEEN REPLACED—ARE THEIR REPLACEMENTS ANY BETTER?

A personal message from the Editor in Chief

Warning a Nation in Decline

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e received a letter recently from a subscriber in Australia, taking us to task for being too hard on the United States. He was distressed at us for regularly referring to the U.S. as “depraved, sinful, oppressed, greedy, lustful, full of idolatry….” I’m not sure that we said it that way, but his point is fair enough. He went on to describe how he sees the U.S.: “There are in excess of 50 cultures living within America, proving to the world that people of different backgrounds and religious beliefs can live together in harmony. Americans are proud of their country. America rescued Australia from the Japanese invasion in World War II. America… saved Great Britain and Europe from the tyranny of Germany in the Second World War.” He also listed other positive traits, such as our freedom of speech and thought, and called the U.S. “the most giving and generous country in the world.” And we believe that, in general, his observations are correct. The U.S. has been an exceptional nation, offering hope to millions through “the American dream.” Instead of building walls to keep citizens in, as the Eastern Bloc had to do during the days of the Soviet Union, the U.S. debates whether to build walls to keep citizens of other countries out—as rich as it is, there is still a limit to how many huddled masses it can absorb all at once. What is it that we are missing? Or is it our dear reader who is missing something? Dying Freedoms We at Tomorrow’s World—including the many Americans—love our countries. We could fill this whole magazine explaining everything we appreciate about the U.S., but the freedom to worship as we please tops the list, alongside our freedom of speech and association. We appreciate that our country’s economic system generally rewards hard work and perseverance. We love that our grocery stores are filled with an incredibly wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, and beverages. We love that most of us have clean water, comfortable homes, and safety from violence.

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But the U.S. is changing—and these changes did not start yesterday. The secularization of the U.S. has been underway for decades. It was never a truly righteous nation, but even the pretense of biblical values is rapidly disappearing as we erase God from our textbooks and remove His commandments from public display. One of the great myths pawned off on the public is that secularism equals neutrality while biblical values equal bigotry and therefore must not be expressed outside of church—thus, freedom of expression is dying. But secularism is anything but neutral. It is a value system largely antithetical to the Bible. To say that abortion represents “a woman’s right to choose” is seen as neutral, but calling it what it is—murder—is seen as dogma that needs to be censored. Secular society welcomes nonmarital sex in almost any context, but don’t be caught in the classroom suggesting that it should be confined to marriage between a biological man and a biological woman—even if the facts show that this produces healthier outcomes, as even homosexual activists have admitted: “Relationships between gay men don’t usually last very long.... Part of this is due to the characteristics of male physiology and psychology, which make the sexual and romantic pairing of man with man inherently less stable than the pairing of man with woman. (Sorry if the truth hurts)” (Marshall Kirk and Hunter Madsen, After the Ball).

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Volume 23, Issue 3 | March 2021

Frankly, my friends, we live in a bizarre world of restlessly shifting values. Even recent “heroes” of political correctness find themselves cast aside as one cultural tribe eats another. Martina Navratilova is clearly one of the greatest female tennis players of all time. She is also openly lesbian, a lifestyle once sacrosanct in secularism—but she fell from grace when she spoke the scientific truth that biological men have greater physical strength and that their competing in women’s sports creates havoc for female athletes. “Athlete Ally, a nonprofit that advocates for LGBTQ inclusion and equality in sports, has severed ties with Martina Navratilova following Sunday’s controversial op-ed, in which the tennis star called transgender women who compete in women’s sports ‘cheats’” (NBCNews.com, March 20, 2019). The first amendment to the U.S. Constitution may “guarantee” freedom of expression and the right to speak freely—but don’t count on it in today’s “cancel culture.” While some views are celebrated, others are censored and punished, and it does not matter whether you have science on your side—that all depends on which politically correct view of “science” you hold. We at Tomorrow’s World decry the loss of free speech in the U.S., and are equally concerned when we see Tomorrow’s World telecasts censored in Australia and the U.K. Living Truth We love our countries, but sorrow over the sins that are bringing us into a dark age indeed. History is being rewritten, monuments of our past are being torn down, and anarchists are burning and looting almost freely in our streets. The fact is that America and the other British-descended nations have been on the wrong path for decades and, as we have been warning, this path is leading to national disaster. Accepting his party’s 1936 nomination to run for reelection, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed, “This generation of Americans has a rendezvous with destiny” (June 27, 1936). Roosevelt’s words came during the Great Depression, a time of great trouble. And so does our generation have its own rendezvous with destiny in our troubled world. There was a time when Western culture generally retained a certain consciousness of God, but even that

is being lost as a new anti-God generation of nihilists exerts its influence over society. The U.S. is no longer the country it was in my youth. Change takes time, and for decades we have seen a deterioration of the values held by most in Western civilization. It is within this picture that those who understand Bible prophecy find themselves. We are not prophets, but we read the words of the prophets, and their message of the near future is not encouraging: But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments, and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments… I also will do this to you: I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever.... And you shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. I will set My face against you, and you shall be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you shall reign over you, and you shall flee when no one pursues you.... I will break the pride of your power; I will make your heavens like iron and your earth like bronze (Leviticus 26:14–19). This is where the U.S. and many other nations are headed. Rather than pretend otherwise, we will cry from the housetops to warn the peoples and nations we love. The prophets warned of disaster if Israel and other nations would not turn from their wicked ways. That is no doubt the reason why the prophets were seen as traitors, thrown in prison, and put to death—and that is why our message is rejected and despised by many. Yet we cannot ignore this warning from the prophet Amos: “… prepare to meet your God” (Amos 4:12). We will continue to call for our peoples to turn from their wickedness and return to their Creator. Sadly, we do not expect that our nations will—but a few of their citizens will, and we will not hide the truth from anyone. In doing so, we will continue to give hope beyond the coming crisis, pointing to when Jesus Christ will return to establish a better world— tomorrow’s world!

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  3

5 Seven Laws of Success

Failure might seem inevitable in our tumultuous times, but seven tested principles can put real success within reach!

10 Saints and Nations

What is a saint, really? What does it take to become one? And what role do they play in your life?

12 Will You Do Hard Things?

Modern life grants us more ease and convenience than ever before—but doing hard things could transform your life.

16 New Gods, New Sins

Today’s society might seem godless, but it is rampant with “gods”—and with ways to anger them.

22 Should You “Make Your Own Bible”? Can the words of human poets and philosophers surpass the truth in the Holy Bible?

26 The Bible, Your Children, and You

The most meaningful way to teach your children the precious word of God might not be what you think.

20 Are You an Essential Worker? 25 Can You Have Habitual Joy? 15 28 30 31

uestions and Answers Q NewsWatch Letters to the Editor Television Log Circulation: 442,000

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Seven Laws of Success

In a world of growing economic trouble and uncertainty about the future, there are simple and practical steps you can take to find true success in life. You need to know—and apply—these vital principles!

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By Richard F. Ames

illions of people have lost jobs as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Some were just starting their careers when the pandemic hit; others were established in prosperous pursuits that seemed to be a foundation for a lifetime of success. But then their hopes were dashed by an unprecedented economic and social crisis. How have people responded? Some have turned to gambling. Already a widespread pursuit, the popularity of online gaming has mushroomed while people have spent weeks and months in “lockdown,” unable to do much outside their homes. In the United Kingdom, one report found that virtual sports betting increased by 88 percent in 2020 over the same month in 2019 (“The pandemic has triggered a British online gambling crisis,” Wired.co.uk, December 4, 2020). Has all this gambling brought success? No! A few have won some money, but many more have lost—and many have fallen victim to gambling addiction. The National Council on Problem Gambling warned that “people with gambling problems may be affected more severely by the pandemic” (“Online Gambling, Gaming Addiction Has Increased During COVID-19,” Healthline.com, November 18, 2020).

Wealth is one very common measure of success, and it has been hard for many to find during the pandemic. But how do you define success, and how do you deal with failure? In this article, we will look briefly at one proven set of principles for achieving true success—principles that have helped me personally, as well as many other people I know. What Is Success? Most people have heard of the inventor Thomas Alva Edison. With more than 1,000 U.S. patents in his name, he is credited with major advancements in technologies ranging from electric lighting to batteries, sound recording, and motion pictures. Of course, not every one of Edison’s experiments produced the results he expected. But how did he view his efforts? He once told a discouraged colleague that, even after literally a thousand failed experiments on one project, “I never allow myself to become discouraged… we had learned for a certainty that the thing couldn’t be done that way, and that we would have to try some other way. We sometimes learn a lot from our failures if we have put into the effort the best thought and work we are capable of” (“Why Do So Many Men Never Amount to Anything?,” American Magazine, v. 91, 1921, p. 89). Before God called him into the ministry, our predecessor in this Tomorrow’s World work, Mr.

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  5

SEVE N LAWS OF S U CC ESS

Herbert Armstrong, was for a time a successful businessman—but, like millions of others, his business career collapsed with the 1929 stock market crash and the Great Depression of the 1930s. For a time he appeared to have failed in his endeavors, but God would still choose to use him powerfully. Later in his life, reflecting on his years of varied experiences, he compiled what he called “The Seven Laws of Success.” Countless thousands—perhaps millions—have applied these laws in their own lives and found success they never before imagined. In this article, we’ll briefly examine these seven vital principles that you can use to change your life! The King Who “Had It All”? The Bible tells us of one powerful man who explored the extremes of excess in his desire to find success. Israel’s ancient King Solomon was striving to experience life to the “fullest.” Solomon was an engineer who designed irrigation systems and a musician who assembled choral groups and symphonic orchestras. As a king, he owned great treasures of silver and gold. He wrote, “I acquired male and female servants, and had servants born in my house. Yes, I had greater possessions of herds and flocks than all who were in Jerusalem before me. I also gathered for myself silver and gold and the special treasures of kings and of the provinces. I acquired male and female singers, the delights of the sons of men, and musical instruments of all kinds. So I became great and excelled more than all who were before me in Jerusalem. Also my wisdom remained with me” (Ecclesiastes 2:7–9). He even had 700 wives and 300 concubines. But did they give him success and lasting happiness? No! His wives eventually persuaded him to worship false gods, which brought a terrible penalty. Through it all, Solomon retained his wisdom to consider what he had gained through his revelries. What did he find? “Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure, for my heart rejoiced in all my labor; and this was my reward from all my labor. Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done and on the labor in which I had toiled; and indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 2:10–11).

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What about you? Can you learn from Solomon’s example and avoid his mistakes? Are you looking for the right kind of success—in the right places and in the right ways? Some of the seven laws below are common-sense principles, but many people seem to lack common sense! Maybe you are already applying four or five of these principles, but you may be surprised to discover the great benefits you will gain if you apply them all. So, let’s briefly consider each of the seven. The First Law: Set the Right Goal Goal-oriented people set long-term and short-term goals, and they commit themselves to doing all they reasonably can do to achieve those goals, setting aside any distractions and fleeting pleasures that may conflict with their efforts. Israel’s ancient King Solomon achieved many goals, some of which gave him temporary satisfaction. But, as we saw above, he realized that those goals did not produce lasting value and success. He called his pursuits “vanity”—a “striving after wind” without lasting value. What will give you lasting happiness and true success? In this magazine, we share the true and priceless values revealed in your Bible. So, what is the greatest goal in life? What is your personal goal in life? In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us that we need not worry anxiously about food and clothing. He reminds us that if God provides food for the birds of the air, He will provide food for His children much more. Jesus was saying that all the necessities we anxiously worry about are secondary to the most important goal of all. Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). Yes, setting the right goal produces true success if we follow all of the seven laws of success. And, dear reader, our short-term goals should help us advance toward our ultimate goal—the Kingdom of God! The Second Law: Prepare Yourself What knowledge do you need to achieve your goal? What preparations must you make? If you’re choosing a career as a craftsman, you will likely need to work as an apprentice before you can become a journeyman. Many professions require at least a college education, if not an advanced degree. More than ever, we need to increase our knowledge just to keep up with our goals.

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S EVEN LAWS O F S UCCESS

You should never stop learning, but you must also make sure that what you are learning is true. In the book of Proverbs, we read that true knowledge begins with an awe of and reverence for God as the Source of wisdom and knowledge. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7). And again, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10). Are you growing in wisdom? Are you growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18)? Our Savior is the key to true Christian success! To reach your goal, you need to educate yourself and prepare to achieve that goal, whether physical or spiritual. You need God’s wisdom and knowledge! The Third Law: Maintain Good Health How healthy are you? Do you have energy and vigor to work hard and accomplish? Our modern environment itself may be detrimental to our health. We have come to expect pollution in our air, water, and food. It is often difficult to find high-quality food and pure drinking water—our modern diets are certainly not what God intended for human beings. Nevertheless, we all can and should strive to maintain healthy eating habits. In addition to a good diet, exercise is important. The Bible emphasizes the spiritual dimension in our lives, but also calls physical exercise profitable (cf. 1 Timothy 4:8) and says that we have a responsibility to honor God with our bodies (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:20). Other laws of health include maintaining a positive and tranquil mind and avoiding accidents. You will be able to achieve your goals with more effectiveness and efficiency if you have physical fitness. You may want to read our detailed booklet Biblical Principles of Health for more information on how you can develop the good health God wants you to have. You can read it online at TomorrowsWorld.org, or order your own free printed copy from our Regional Office nearest you, listed on page 4 of this magazine. The Fourth Law: Drive Yourself Mr. Armstrong called this an “all-important” law. We need to put a prod on ourselves to move. The book of Proverbs gives us a powerful illustration:

Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep—so shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man (Proverbs 6:6–11). Proper rest is essential for health, but God warns against being lazy! The ant, in this case, keeps moving a little grain of food or sand at a time, and accomplishes much over a long period of time. We all need energy and purpose. We need to discipline ourselves to work effectively. The Fifth Law: Apply Resourcefulness Think of this as the “emergency” law. Perhaps the road to your planned career or goal looks clear and smooth. But life often brings unexpected obstacles. You may suddenly face a financial problem or health emergency. What will you do? Always investigate your options. What resources are available? What agencies or individuals might be of help? Of course, the first step in any serious emergency is to ask for God’s help. When Jesus came walking on the water to His disciples, the Apostle Peter wanted to do the same. So Jesus told Peter, “‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, ‘Lord, save me!’” (Matthew 14:29–30). We often overlook the obvious when we’re in trouble. In this case, Peter quickly cried out for help. What did Jesus do? “And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’” (Matthew 14:31). Ask God to save you out of your predicament. But be sure to do your part and search out all the resources available. Don’t just give up. Ask for wise counsel. “Without counsel, plans go awry, but in the multitude of counselors they are established” (Proverbs 15:22).

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  7

SEVE N LAWS OF S U CC ESS

The Sixth Law: Persevere Toward Your Goal Always have perseverance—“stick-to-it-iveness,” as Mr. Armstrong described it. During World War II, when the future looked gloomy for Great Britain, Prime Minister Winston Churchill spoke on October 29, 1941 at the Harrow School. He inspired his audience to persevere, stating, “Surely from this period of ten months this is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never—in nothing, great or small, large or petty—never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy. We stood all alone a year ago, and to many countries it seemed that our account was closed, we were finished.” History records that the dogged perseverance of the British and their allies eventually brought great victory. Those who respond to God’s calling are in a spiritual race as we persevere to our final goal. “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1–2). Apply the sixth law of success. Run the race with endurance, or “patience” as the King James Version translates it, or “perseverance” as the New Revised Standard Version does. Never give up! Run the race of life with perseverance. As Jesus Christ promised us, “he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). The Seventh Law: Seek God’s Continual Guidance You may ask, “How can I have God’s continual guidance?” The simple answer is that you need to pray to Him—to acknowledge Him! Notice this wonderful promise: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6). God promises that He will direct our paths and guide us through life to fulfill our human potential

MAY WE S U G G EST?

and ultimate destiny. But we must pray daily, and we must act on His priceless promises. “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:6–7). As you begin to pray, as you begin to change your whole way of life to God’s Way of true success, He will forgive you through the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. God has promised that He will have mercy on you and pardon you if you repent and seek Him. When you come to a crossroads, when you are faced with decisions, pray and ask for God’s will to be done in your life. He has promised to guide you and be with you. As Jesus promised us, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). True Happiness Can Be Yours! As you apply these seven principles of success—and experience true success as a result—you will enjoy God’s blessings. God wants us to live happy, abundant lives, but far too many people make the mistake of seeking happiness as a goal in itself and become frustrated. True happiness is a by-product of something else. When our lives have a meaning—a purpose—we find happiness as we pursue that purpose. And you don’t need to be rich like King Solomon to have true values and true purpose in your life. As author Dennis Prager wrote, “A loss of values and meaning are the two greatest sources of unhappiness.… poor people who have meaning can be happy, but wealthy people who lack meaning cannot be” (“Without Meaning, You Can’t Be Happy,” NationalReview.com, January 28, 2020). And what greater meaning can there be than to seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33)? No success can be greater than that! Dear reader, I encourage you to apply all seven of these principles of success. If you do, you will come to find the true, abundant life Jesus promised: “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). That is the life God will give you if you commit yourself to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. TW

Biblical Principles of Health If you want good health, you need the expertise of the One who made your body! Request this free printed booklet from the Regional Office nearest you, or order at TomorrowsWorld.org.  PDF, ePub, and Kindle are also available.

8  Tomorrow’s World  |  March 2021

TomorrowsWorld.org

THE

SEVEN LAWS OF SUCCESS

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S God’s Seek God’ d’s ’ss Continual Cooon CCont ont nnt ntitittin iinnnu nua uua ual aall GGuidance Gu When you come to a crossroads, when you are faced with decisions, pray and ask for God’s will to be done in your life.

6 Persevere Towa Perseve Toward ard Your Goal Those who respond to God’s calling are in a spiritual race as we persevere to our final goal. Never give up!

5 Apply Resourcefulness Resourcefuulness ln The first step in any emergency is to ask for God’s help, but also be sure to do your part and search out all the resources available.

4 D ive Yourrself Dri Put a prod on yourself to move. Proper Pro rest is essential for health, but God warns against being lazy!

1 Set the th Right Goal “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

3 Maintaiin Good Health

2

Strive to maintain healthy eating habits, physical fitness, and a positive, tranquil mind in order to achieve with maximum efficiency.

Prepare Yourself rself self To reach your goal, you need to educate yourself and prepare to achieve that goal, whether physical or spiritual. Are you looking for the right kind of success—in the right places and in the right ways? How do you define success, and how do you deal with failure? Here is one proven set of principles for achieving true success— principles that you can use to change your life!

THIS IS

London

CALLING Saints and Nations

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ost of us are familiar with the Roman Catholic practice of praying to “saints in heaven.” Among those saints—people said to have been “holy” in their lifetimes, but who are now dead and supposedly waiting in heaven to receive prayers—“patron saints” are relied upon to petition God on behalf of particular cities, regions, or countries (“Patron Saint” Britannica.com). These “saints,” chosen and honored by Rome to serve as advocates and protectors, became potent symbols of national identities. But what does your Bible say about saints, and about their role in addressing our national problems? Legendary Saints of the United Kingdom Rome has credited the United Kingdom with four patron saints, one for each country in the Union. Facts about them, mixed with many traditions and legends, have been passed down through history. Spring in the British Isles brings the recognition of “Saint David,” the patron saint of Wales, said to have been born in southwest Wales near the town that now bears his name, St Davids. Legends say that he founded multiple monasteries amongst the Celtic Christian communities in Wales and even east to Glastonbury in Somerset, England. He died around 589 AD and in the twelfth century Pope Callixtus II named him a “saint.” Many in Wales celebrate Saint David’s Day, March 1, with festivities and by wearing two symbols of Wales, the daffodil and the leek. Northern Ireland—along with the entire island of Ireland—celebrates the day of “Saint Patrick” on March 17, said to be the anniversary of Patrick’s death

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sometime in the late fifth century. Celebrants honor Patrick for his legendary role in evangelizing Ireland for the Christian faith. Indeed, traditions about his past, and even his faith, vary—but his fame is wide and Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated widely even outside of Ireland, particularly in North America, where until recent times it was celebrated even more enthusiastically than in Ireland itself. Celebrants wear green clothes and shamrocks, and celebrations of Irish culture on this day often include drinking Irish beer. “Saint George,” the patron saint of England, is honored on or close to April 23, the traditional date of his 303 AD death. George is said to have been a high-ranking Roman soldier, tortured under Emperor Diocletian because of his Christian faith. Because of his resilience under pressure and his death as a martyr, George was seen as the epitome of bravery and selflessness in the Middle Ages, particularly during the Crusades. He is often depicted on horseback, slaying a dragon. Britain’s King Edward III made him the national patron saint in 1350 after founding the Royal Order of the Garter, the most senior order of knighthood in the realm. Interestingly, however, George apparently never visited Britain! “Saint Andrew” is identified as a fisherman, the brother of Simon Peter, and a disciple—later an Apostle—of Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:18–20). His role as patron saint of Scotland is thought to have begun in the eleventh century under Scotland’s King Malcolm III, but may involve a much earlier visit by Andrew to the Scots’ forefathers while they lived near the Black Sea. His feast day, November 30, is observed like the other saints’ days—with celebratory parades, traditional food, and drinking.

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SAI N TS AN D N AT IONS

Historians trace Andrew as having visited the ancestors of the modern-day Scots in Scythia, near the Black Sea. In doing so, he is regarded as the first to bring the Gospel message to the region of modern-day Georgia, Ukraine, and Romania near the Caucasus Mountains, according to author Peter Peterson in Andrew, Brother of Simon Peter: His History and His Legends. Andrew was following the instructions of Jesus Christ, who, shortly before His death, told His disciples, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19). Andrew and others of the Apostles travelled widely, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God “to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:6). True Saints of God Andrew’s obedience is a sign of a faithful saint. According to Scripture, a “saint” is not someone who has died and is now waiting for our prayers in heaven. In fact, John 3:13 tells us in very clear terms that “No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven,” meaning that only Jesus Christ has ascended to heaven. The dead will be resurrected at the “coming of the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:13–15) and not before. True saints, rather, are those who in this life “keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). A saint must therefore be obedient to the Ten Commandments and have faith as Christ lives in them through God’s Holy Spirit (Galatians 2:20).

Oil on canvas depicting “Saint Andrew”

Paul, in his epistles, writes to those he calls the “saints” in the cities of Corinth, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colosse (2 Corinthians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:2). These were living Christians who received Paul’s letters, not dead Christians receiving his prayers in heaven. The Greek word hágios, translated in these verses of Paul’s letters as saint, is more often translated in Scripture as holy, meaning something or someone set apart or special to God. Scripture exhorts us that “as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:15–16; see also Leviticus 11:44–45; 19:2–4; 20:7–8). God wants those whom He considers saints to be like Him—to follow the example of Jesus Christ and obey His law in all aspects of this life. If a person does not strive to live by everything Christ taught and follow the example He set, then by the biblical definition that person is not a saint. God’s true saints are those who live earthly, human lives in faithful accordance to God’s standards after genuinely repenting of their sins and committing themselves to Him in baptism (Acts 2:38). The truth is that there are no patron saints of any nation who petition God in heaven about anything. Saints are human beings who have had their sins covered by Christ’s sacrifice, received God’s Holy Spirit, and committed themselves to following the biblically revealed way of life, turning away from the moral and ethical decline around them. Of course, these actual saints—unlike the powerless legendary ones—will consistently be praying to God in the name of Jesus Christ for the good of their nation and its leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–4) as part of the example they set of living their lives in full obedience to God. And when the saints die, they do not ascend bodiless to heaven; they “sleep” in death until the coming resurrection of the saints (1 Corinthians 11:30; 1 Thessalonians 4:14). Saints are not alive today in heaven to serve as intermediaries between physical individuals and God—only Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit occupies that role (Romans 8:26, 34; Hebrews 7:25). Are you a true saint? If you want to know more about what it means to be one of God’s saints, please read What Is a True Christian? at TomorrowsWorld.org or request your free printed copy from the Regional Office nearest you, listed on page 4 of this magazine. —Simon R. D. Roberts

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  11

Will You Do Hard Things? Choosing what is right over what is easy can make you not only stronger, but also happier!

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By Rod McNair

n the midst of a pandemic, life can be hard enough without our trying to make it harder. Shouldn’t we be trying to make our lives easier in difficult times? Perhaps surprisingly, as many have learned, one of the best ways to make life better is to get out of our comfort zone and learn to do hard things! Sadly, our society seems to be moving in the opposite direction. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, many teens had to help support their families, entering the workforce years before formal adulthood. But what about today? Jean Twenge, a professor of psychology at San Diego State University, has found that “in terms of adult behaviors, 18-year-olds now look like 15-year-olds of the past” (“Extended Adolescence: When 25 Is the New 18,” ScientificAmerican.com, September 19, 2017). Even before the pandemic, her research found that young adults were far less likely to be taking on adult responsibilities than their parents or grandparents. “Twenty-five is the new 18, and delayed adolescence is no longer a theory, but a reality,” says Columbia University psychiatrist Mirjana Domakonda.

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What does this mean for our future? The behaviors we learn in youth tend to be the behaviors we carry throughout the rest of our lives. The young adult years are precisely the time of life when people have the most energy and vitality to pour into building careers, marriages, and families. Of course, not all young adults shirk responsibility and waste time. Many are diligent, plan for the future, and work hard. Many are exemplary, selfless people who dedicate themselves to serving others—yet they are bucking a cultural current by doing so. For every energetic young adult who embraces hard work and discipline as embodied in the “Seven Laws of Success” (see our article on page 5 of this issue), many more “go with the flow” and miss opportunities to grow. What does it mean to do hard things? It could mean challenging yourself physically by running a marathon or accepting a job that requires you to use your muscles more than you’re used to. It could mean challenging yourself ethically by telling the truth in a situation where a lie might seem more convenient. It could mean taking the tougher class in school, risking a lower grade but opening a door to new knowledge or opportunity. Or it could mean taking an unpopular stand that puts you on God’s side but risks the loss of friends.

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WI L L YO U D O HAR D THI NGS?

Who Says It’s Hard? But I’m a Christian, some may think, and Jesus said it’s easy to be a Christian. Certainly, Jesus gave us an encouraging promise: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29–30). But did that mean we can just sit idly by and avoid making choices? No! Our Savior also warned us to “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13–14). How do we reconcile these scriptures? Jesus taught a Way of life and He promised the gift of the Holy Spirit to those who would repent, be baptized, and commit to living that Way. The choices He asks of us can be difficult to make—but as we use the Holy Spirit, those choices become easier and easier as we make them into habits. Alex and Brett Harris, who in 2008 authored Do Hard Things—a book calling young people in particular to take initiative and choose the right path over the easy path—maintain a website dedicated to “rebelling against low expectations” (TheRebelution.com). A recent article encourages readers to establish beneficial habits: “Making something a habit means that even though it is hard at times, I stick to it until it becomes essentially second nature…. Remember, a habit is not going to develop overnight, and there will be times it’s impossible to follow through with the habit—but stick to it, and you’ll enjoy compounded results over time” (“2021 Won’t Go as Planned—but Don’t Let That Stop You,” TheRebelution.com). The more we cultivate the ability to develop small habits, the more we lay the foundation for developing big habits that help us persist when facing difficulties. Hard to Grow? Ironically, while the Western world idolizes perpetual youth, it also in many ways despises youth. How often have we heard Baby Boomers or members of Generation X make cruel and ignorant comments about Millennials and members of Generation Z? Yet this is nothing new. Consider what the Apostle Paul wrote, nearly 2,000 years ago, to the young evangelist

Timothy. “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). Ancient Israel’s King Solomon, nearly 3,000 years ago, wrote that we should enjoy our younger years in a particular way: “Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth; walk in the ways of your heart, and in the sight of your eyes; but know that for all these God will bring you into judgment” (Ecclesiastes 11:9). Yes, we must rejoice—but always knowing that God is there to judge our choices. As Solomon said, “Even a child is known by his deeds, whether what he does is pure and right” (Proverbs 20:11). Parents need to give children encouragement and a right example, along with correction when needed. They must not lower expectations or make excuses for failure— rather, they must inspire children to do what is right, even if it is hard. But what if we didn’t spend our youth as well as we should have? It is never too late to repent—to turn around and go a new way—with the help of our Savior and with the indwelling Holy Spirit. God asks all true Christians to do a very hard thing—to come out of the world and prepare for a future as firstfruits in His Kingdom. Why does this matter? Salvation is a free gift, right? Well, yes, but our reward depends on how we use that gift. Consider the “Parable of the Minas” in Luke 19. The nobleman who gave each servant a mina, an ancient unit of money, did not reward them equally when they returned his investment with different results. The nobleman gave his most productive servant the greatest reward, saying, “Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities” (Luke 19:17). Today’s Christians will receive an amazing reward if we repent and respond to God’s call. We can become the firstfruits assisting in God’s Kingdom at Christ’s return. Paul asked, “Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?” (1 Corinthians 6:2). Today’s faithful Christians will be judges—rulers—in the Kingdom of God. Now is the time for us to prepare—by doing the right thing even when it’s hard. Hard to Avoid Apathy? The second and third chapters of Revelation describe seven historic Church congregations—and successive

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  13

W I L L YOU D O H A R D T HIN GS?

Church eras—dating from the time of the Apostles to the future end time. The last is named Laodicea, and it characterizes the attitude of most Christians at the time of Jesus Christ’s return. The warning to Laodicea is a warning to our generation—to a people in the end time, struggling against the corrosiveness of spiritual apathy: “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth”’” (Revelation 3:14–16). What a contrast to the Philadelphian Church, described just a few verses before! Laodicea typifies a “lukewarm” and apathetic society as a whole. Think about it: A few generations ago, hard work and self-discipline were deeply ingrained in the fabric of Western society. People knew that success often means self-restraint and requires people to make choices that are not always fun or comfortable. How out of date that sounds to many today! Even the terms “self-discipline” and “self-control” sound archaic! Yet self-control pleases God; it is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23) and the Apostle Paul preached about it to the governor Felix (Acts 24:25). Hard to Obey God? It is sometimes hard to obey God, especially when the tide of society goes against us. For instance, our society finds it hard to control desire for possessions—so

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credit card debt soars higher and higher. However, Christ taught His disciples not to set their hearts on possessions. He said that unless we are willing to prioritize Him above all else, we are not fit to be His disciples (Matthew 19:21). In our present day, it can even be hard to keep God’s Sabbath. How ironic! The Sabbath is a rest day, yet many who exercise faith and courage to keep it are risking rejection by family, friends, and neighbors. We may risk losing a job—or be unable to find one— because we will not work on the Sabbath. Yet Jesus Christ promised that if we make obedience to Him our highest priority, He will take care of us—even making sure that we have what we need to eat and to wear (Matthew 6:31–33)! So, if God is calling you and opening your mind to the truth, are you willing to do the hard things? This is not the time to shrink back—it is the time to be strong and take the challenge! It is the time to go against the complacency and apathy of society. It is time to truly submit to God. It is time to let Him empower us to do the hard things to serve Him, even when others are not. God is looking for people who will step out and serve Him even when it’s hard. Scripture encourages us that “the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9). Eternal blessings and opportunities await true Christians who are willing to commit to Him, submit to His ways, and conquer themselves even if it is hard—especially if it is hard! TW

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Why Has Christ Still Not Returned? Question: In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, political division, civil unrest, and rampant violence in the world today, I keep reading in Tomorrow’s World about Jesus Christ’s soon-coming Millennial rule on the earth. If God knows that our world is such a mess and that only He can make it better, why would He wait thousands of years and allow so much suffering in the meantime? A truly loving God would prevent all of that, wouldn’t He? Answer: God is definitely not turning a blind eye to the suffering resulting from mankind’s failings, nor is He at all happy about it. “‘As I live,’ says the Lord God, ‘I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways!’” (Ezekiel 33:11). Most assume that in spite of the horrible condition of our world, God is trying to save it—and its people—right now. But if we believe that God is trying to save humanity now, His actions become hard to understand. More than two thirds of the people alive today do not even claim to be Christian, and most “Christians” do not believe or practice what Jesus Christ taught. We know that there is no name other than Christ’s by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12), but we also know that most human beings are not being saved by that name right now—and many have not even heard it. If God is trying to save the human race now, He is failing miserably. The truth is that if God were trying to save the entire world now, He would be succeeding! Scripture reveals that, in reality, God is only calling a relative few in our present age—the “firstfruits” of the saved (James 1:18; Revelation 14:4). Most people have lived and died without ever hearing the true Gospel, but they will hear it when God resurrects them to physical life in the Great White Throne Judgment (Revelation 20:11–12). To learn more about this wonderful, mostly unknown aspect of God’s plan, order a free copy of What Happens When You Die?, or read it online at TomorrowsWorld.org. What purpose does this plan serve? Why not save everybody at the same time? The truth is that God is creating a family—those He is now calling will be

married to Jesus Christ (Revelation 19:9), added to His Family so that they can rule under Him during the Millennium, when the whole world will be under God’s government and learn to live by His ways. You can find out more about God’s government by reading The World Ahead: What Will It Be Like? at TomorrowsWorld.org, or by ordering your own free copy. Jesus Christ knows that if He returned today, some Jesus Christ people would still say, “You knows that if just didn’t give us enough time! We could have fixed He returned everything without You!” The today, some truth is that humanity as a people would whole will not seek God until its ways have brought such still say, “You just didn’t give calamitous suffering that people everywhere finally reach us enough time! a chilling conclusion: There We could have is no human escape from our fixed everything self-inflicted extinction. Eventually, our world will without You!” face a time of such terrible war and devastation that unless Jesus Christ were to return, all life on earth would be annihilated. “For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days” (Mark 13:19–20). Until then, God is allowing human beings to prove to themselves that their selfish ways bring only misery, suffering, and destruction. However, as we’ve said, God is calling a few people right now. Those He is calling will have the amazing opportunity to become “firstfruits,” the first to enter into His Family as glorified Spirit beings, to assist Jesus Christ in ruling the nations. With this in mind, all of us need to “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:6–7). TW

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  15

NEW GODS, NEW SINS

THE ANCIENT, HEATHEN “GODS” OF OLD HAVE BEEN REPLACED—AND THEIR REPLACEMENTS ARE NO BETTER.

The pagan temples of many false gods of the past may be turning to dust around us, but modern man is no less “creative” than his heathen ancestors. Welcome to a world of “new gods” and, with them, new dogmas, new demands—and new sins.

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By Wallace G. Smith

any believe that the age of religion and superstition is over—that mankind has finally moved past its days of condemning sins, obeying lists of commandments, and worshipping gods. But they are mistaken. Our “secular” world is in fact a world of “new gods” and “new sins.” It might seem strange to speak of “new gods,” so please don’t misunderstand—what Jesus Christ told His disciples on that Passover evening 2,000 years ago is still true today: “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3). But the more we examine the world around us, the more we see a wilderness of “new religions” growing up like weeds. These aren’t the traditional religions of the past, focused on the ancient gods of, say, Greek, Egyptian, or Norse mythology. Yet their followers are every bit as fiercely passionate as those ancient pagans surely were, and their devotion to their deities every bit as complete. These modern “gods” are reflected in the words God spoke to the prophet Ezekiel in His condemnation of ancient Israel—a condemnation that rings just as true today. Ezekiel wrote, “And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their hearts, and put before them that which causes them to stumble into iniquity’” (Ezekiel 14:2–3). It’s easy to think of idols simply as statues of stone or gold—or even as engravings, icons, and other artwork. And, to be sure, such images often do violate the second of the Ten Commandments. Yet God reveals here that idol worship goes far beyond items we create with our hands. Man is particularly adept at creating idols in his heart—false gods to which he devotes himself religiously, submitting his mind, his actions, his morals, and his conscience.

And today we are living in a virtual pantheon of idols of the heart, including political philosophies, social causes, identity issues, and new worldviews. The world around us promotes a growing collection of “new gods,” demanding that all “reasonable people” agree with and embrace their lists of enlightened “new doctrines” and “new sins.” Worse yet, the priests and followers of these “new gods” are increasingly ready to force their faith upon the world and ready to punish those who will not fall into line. Unlike biblical Christianity, which from the beginning sought to win people’s hearts and minds through sound words and good examples, the acolytes of these “new gods” are willing to use force to spread their new faiths, conducting inquisitions and “witch trials” to do whatever it takes to forcibly compel either confession or compliance. Whether through the courtroom, the legislature, the markets, or the media, the faithful acolytes of these “new gods” seek to punish anyone who dares defy the faith to which they have devoted themselves so fully. Let’s look at some of the man-made philosophies, worldviews, and mindsets that have been elevated to the status of “godhood” in society today. “The All-Knowing Science” Proverbs 25:2 tells us, “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter,” and scientific practice is one of the best examples of searching out a matter. Advancements that came through the scientific method have greatly enhanced our lives and addressed many sources of human disease, discomfort, and distress. We’ve learned some of the secrets of the universe, and our understanding of our world is richer for it. Yet science isn’t God. It doesn’t tell us right from wrong. The theories and experiments that revealed the secrets of the subatomic world also allowed us to build the atomic weapons that devastated

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NEW G O DS , NE W S IN S

Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, killing hundreds of thousands. As people kick God out of civilization, something must take His place, and those who don’t understand the limitations of science—or don’t care—are happy to build altars to its name and declare it one of the “new gods.” And, like any other, the religion its worshippers create has its orthodoxies, dogmas, and sins. Invoking the name of their god, people seek to win arguments by claiming they have “science” on their side—regardless of other scientific studies that support the opposite position. Scientists are treated like priests delivering the word of God—and the views of some of them are con-

peer-reviewed paper that didn’t disparage evidence of intelligent design to be published in a scientific journal. When science is elevated to the status of a god, even a hint of disagreement with evolution is heretical—and heresy is not tolerated. “The All-Destroying Climate Change” Let’s be clear: It makes sense to be good stewards of the earth. Man was not made for the earth, but the earth was made for man, and it makes sense to wisely manage our resources. God expects us to be good stewards of the planet (Genesis 2:15), and we at Tomorrow’s World don’t wish to argue about whether the global climate is changing—or, if it is, whether mankind is the chief cause of that change. Those debates are beside the point, because once climate change has been elevated to the status of “godhood,” all discussion is thrown out of perspective. The supreme good becomes accepting the “divine dogmas” of climate change, and moral good and evil are determined by nothing more than the tenet of environmental impact, valid or not. Destroying a nation’s productive capacity, economic systems, and social structures to achieve a Green New Deal and save the environment is considered no problem, because for the “new god” of climate change, the ultimate moral good is caring about the earth—or at least appearing as though you care about the earth. Political Science professor Michael Munger made this point in a 2019 article for the American Institute for Economic Research. At a recycling conference, when he explained how recycling glass is actually bad for the environment—given the pollution involved, the carbon costs, expense, etc.—he expected outrage from the attendees, all of whom were die-hard recyclers. However, the response surprised him:

SCIENTISTS ARE TREATED LIKE PRIESTS DELIVERING THE WORD OF GOD—AND THE VIEWS OF SOME OF THEM ARE CONSIDERED CANONICAL TRUTH, SUCH THAT THOSE WHO DARE TO DISAGREE ARE CONSIDERED HERETICS TO BE “EXCOMMUNICATED” sidered canonical truth, such that those who dare to disagree are considered heretics to be “burned at the stake,” even other scientists with evidence that supports a different view. Think that’s harsh? Real life experience says otherwise. FreeScience.today lists the names of several scientists who have essentially been “excommunicated” for their willingness to dissent from the dogma of evolution. They have lost their positions, lost jobs, and been investigated by their departments, and their courses have been canceled. In one case, that of double-PhD biologist Richard Sternberg, the United States Office of Special Counsel concluded in its investigation that “It is… clear that a hostile work environment was created with the ultimate goal of forcing you out of the SI [the Smithsonian Institute]” (“Richard Sternberg,” FreeScience.today)—all because he had allowed a

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One fellow was perfectly forthcoming: “Oh, we all know it makes no sense to recycle glass. The economic case is easy. But people should still recycle, because it’s simply the right thing to do. It’s not about the actual environment. It’s about enlisting people to care about the

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N EW G O DS , N EW SINS

symbol of the environment. Overall, recycling is still worth doing, regardless of its effects.” A young woman piped up: “It’s okay to say that sort of thing here, because we are insiders. But it’s better not to talk about the economics of things to the general public. We need to help train them to care about the environment, and recycling is one of the best ways to do that.”… The message I had worried about, and expected to be controversial, was old hat to the industry folks. But it was beside the point, because recycling was for them a moral imperative. Once you begin to think of recycling as a symbol of religious devotion rather than a pragmatic solution to environmental problems, the whole thing makes more sense (“For Most Things, Recycling Harms the Environment,” emphasis added). Going meatless because you are concerned about the cattle industry’s impact on global warming, or deciding not to have children so as to reduce humanity’s “carbon footprint”—such steps are considered small prices to pay to satisfy the demands of the “new god” of climate change. So, if you eat a burger, have a large family, or fail to recycle that soda bottle, be prepared to be called out as a “sinner.” “The All-Freeing Sexuality” The biblical model for sex is simple: Humanity was created male and female, biologically obvious categories. Each was created for the other, so that when man and woman choose to commit to each other in God-designed marriage, the benefits of marriage become available to them—including sexual intimacy and any resulting children. In sharp contrast, the “new god” of sexual anarchy dictates that sexuality is not bound by any rules, constraints, or natural laws. This “new god” proclaims a long and detailed list of sins, but it can be summarized fairly simply: Anyone professing belief in biblical concepts of gender, sexuality, or marriage is at best a prude, and at worst a bigot. Biblical standards are considered far too restrictive by the worshipers of sexual anarchy. As the word “anarchy” implies, everything is up for grabs. Sex is no longer confined to marriage—and “marriage” itself has been redefined to include any

arrangement of individuals, regardless of number or gender. In fact, even gender has been redefined, no longer just male or female, but now “freed” to move fluidly along a spectrum of possibilities—a spectrum without rules, constraints, or boundaries. Like ancient Moloch, this “new god” of sexual anarchy demands children’s lives as sacrifice. People not old enough to vote, drink alcohol, or drive a car are increasingly permitted—even encouraged—to make fundamental and far-reaching gender decisions that can permanently alter their lives. At least a few courts have recognized some of the problems with this. On December 1, 2020, BBC News reported on a case brought against the UK’s National Health Service by a young woman who as a teenager had been prescribed hormone blockers to help her irreversibly prevent puberty, in line with her then-desire to be a male. She and her fellow claimants won the case, arguing that children simply do not have the capacity to make such decisions. In the words of one of the judges, “It is highly unlikely that a child aged 13 or under would be competent to give consent to the administration of puberty blockers. It is doubtful that a child aged 14 or 15 could understand and weigh the long-term risks and consequences of the administration of puberty blockers” (“Puberty blockers: Under-16s ‘unlikely to be able to give informed consent’”). But don’t expect the true believers in sexual anarchy to abandon their faith after one small setback. They will continue to seek to punish those who believe biblical sexuality and morality is best for society—and sacrifices will continue to be made as they march their faith forward. In fact, faith in the “new god” of sexual anarchy is only one sect in a host of “new religions” that fall under a broader “new god”—much as Zeus was over the gods of ancient Greece, and Jupiter over the gods of the Romans. “The All-Consuming Social Transformation” The “new god” of social transformation has a special power—it casts itself in the worshiper’s image. If you believe sexual and gender norms are the “Great Satan” preventing society from progressing, the revolution centers around that. If you believe that the world won’t NEW GODS, NEW SINS CONTINUES ON PAGE 24

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ARE YOU AN ESSENTIAL WORKER? The most crucial work of all is perhaps the least respected.

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hat a year! The most Googled news items in 2020 include coronavirus, murder hornet, Australia fires, and— at number four in the rankings— unemployment. Within the vein of unemployment, another question was on people’s minds: “Am I an essential worker?” What is the most essential work you can take part in? According to the United States Department of Homeland Security, essential workers are “those who conduct a range of operations and services that are typically essential to continue critical infrastructure operations.” That definition may seem vague or even circular, but it describes those without whom society could not function. Health care professionals and food service workers provide two very obvious examples of essential workers. Such individuals’ selfless efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic are rightly praised. After all, making sacrifices for the good of others and living a life of service are fundamental Christian principles. The media has given us many “feel good” stories about heroic front-line workers, making their sometimes-underappreciated efforts visible to us all. Yet there is another aspect of our infrastructure that has largely been ignored, or even attacked, by some of the same individuals tasked with maintaining the public health and functionality of our society. Shockingly, whether by overreaching legislators or by citizens seeking absent answers, Christianity has widely been declared non-essential. Real Solutions for 2021 While casinos, cannabis shops, and gun stores are classified under the broad umbrella of “critical infrastructure operations,” much religious activity has been declared irrelevant or even undesirable. In today’s charged climate, even calling for a day of prayer and fasting has become controversial. Is it any wonder that division, dissent, and animosity are growing around the world? The Work of God is ignored in favor of human solutions, which often come with unintended consequences—and sometimes these are worse than the initial problem. This is all the more saddening because the Bible offers real answers that make sense. The God of the

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Bible explains the natural consequences that come when we misuse His creation. The cause-and-effect relationships outlined in the Bible serve as warnings about many of the issues we see today (cf. Leviticus 26; Deuteronomy 28). It is no wonder that Jesus Christ prophesied that there would be wars, racial tensions, famines, disease epidemics, earthquakes, and Shockingly, many more sorrows before whether by His return (Matthew 24). overreaching But will 2021 be different? legislators or by Will we stop eating animals citizens seeking that, as our Creator long ago explained, were not designed absent answers, for human consumption? Will Christianity has we again acknowledge that a biological man who wants to widely been “be a woman” is someone in declared need of help other than surnon-essential. gery—just as anorexics need food rather than diet pills to cure their condition? Will we acknowledge that it is not within mankind to direct its steps (Jeremiah 10:23) and that we desperately need the guidance of One who loves us and is truly good? The Most Essential Work The good news is that better times are coming—while each day society seems to fall deeper into darkness, we can take heart that it is always darkest just before the dawn. After all of the turmoil Christ prophesied in Matthew 24 finally does come to pass, He will return to establish the Kingdom of God on earth. At that time, those who today are taking part in the most essential Work in the universe—proclaiming the true message of the Gospel—will serve under their Savior to help heal the world, in part by answering the question of why God allows devastating pandemics to happen. These individuals, whom the Bible calls the “firstfruits,” will teach the laws of God and the Way that leads to life. The world is in desperate need of this message of hope, this essential Work. Will you be a part of getting this message out? Will you be an essential worker? —Ryan Dawson

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The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy A free resource that proves the prophesied destiny of these nations! For decades, Tomorrow’s World has explained what lies ahead for America and Britain. As presidents have passed in and out of favor and political winds have shifted directions over and over again, the Bible’s own prophecies concerning these nations have remained accurate. It’s time you knew the truth! A Critical Time for Two Great Powers The United States continues to endure one of the most traumatic periods in its modern history and remains a nation more ideologically divided than ever. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom faces an exciting but uncertain future after its “divorce” from Europe (a condition predicted for years in this magazine, long before anyone spoke of “Brexit”). For these two great powers, the years just ahead will bring the greatest challenges they have ever faced. The coming economic crises, shattered alliances, domestic chaos, and military defeats will impact the life of every man, woman, and child in these nations to a degree almost unimaginable. And what begins with the Americans and the British will eventually engulf the entire world. Solid Prophecies—Not Trendy Theories Religious preachers, “wannabe” prophets, and political “talking heads” have stumbled around aimlessly in recent years, trying to predict what may happen. At best, their guesses have been wrong as often as they have been right—at worst, they have been disastrously inaccurate. Yet the prophecies of the Bible have proven accurate, time and time again. That is because Almighty God knows the future of these nations! More than that, He has outlined their future in His word for all to read. But this is not the time for delusions, guesswork, or amateur-hour biblical “interpretation.” Our free resource The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy contains proven, time-tested information you need to understand what’s ahead. It will guide you through your own Bible to understand the true origins and destinies of the English-speaking peoples

as you have never understood before. Let God show you what He has revealed in His word! Get your own free copy of this powerful booklet, The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy! You can order your own copy at TomorrowsWorld.org, or you can contact any of our Regional Offices, listed on page 4 of this magazine.

Should You “Make Your Own Bible”?

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By Bryan Fall

as the dust lying atop Bibles in the United States buried them for good? Americans increasingly “explore their own truth” and purport to find meaning and significance “from within.” For some, yesterday’s lumbering religion has outgrown its own unwieldy limbs and now serves only to restrict modern, humanistic progress. Though most Christians maintain that God inspired the Holy Bible, few would deny that the “pen to paper” work was done by men. How can we know for certain that an unseen Spirit Being inspired those men? A May 2020 study conducted by Dr. George Barna of Arizona Christian University presents what some would consider a more “enlightened” American. Today, 58 percent of Americans believe moral truth is individually decided. Among evangelicals, a surprising 46 percent reject absolute moral truth. The study also asked where Americans are finding truth: Less than half (42 percent) believe that God is the basis of truth, while 16 percent now rely on “inner certainty,” 15 percent use scientific proof, 5 percent rely on tradition, and 4 percent find truth through public consensus. “The remaining two out of every ten adults said that either there is no such thing as truth (5%) or that they do not know the basis of truth (13%)” (“A Nation Unmoored—CRC Study Shows Americans Reject Moral Truth Rooted in God’s Word”).

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With postmodern humanity forming the basis of today’s truth, can there be new holy books? This idea didn’t seem so far-fetched to the father of American transcendentalism, Ralph Waldo Emerson. A proponent of “inner divinity,” Emerson advocated in a July 1836 journal entry, “Make your own Bible. Select & Collect all those words & sentences that in all your reading have been to you like the blast of trumpet out of Shakspear [sic], Seneca, Moses, John, & Paul.” The Carnal Mind The human race has accomplished such feats of technology and engineering that it seems “nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them” (Genesis 11:6). However, our successes stand in contrast with abject failure in the domains of relationships, harmony, morality, health, and lasting peace. As the German philosopher Immanuel Kant pointed out, our human perception of reality cannot infallibly correspond with reality itself because we are bound by our own five senses. The human eye, unaided by microscope or telescope, cannot fathom the world of cells, microbes, and amoebas, nor distant planets and fiery stars. Could other aspects of life be hidden from human hearts and minds that are unassisted by revealed truth? Scripture certainly says so: “Because the carnal [or natural, physical, fleshly] mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be” (Romans 8:7). “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are

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S HO UL D YO U “MAK E YO UR OWN B I BLE”?

foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). Could even the most brilliant human minds be ignorant of a whole world undetected by physical senses, seeing all spiritual truths as “foolishness”? The humanistic mind puts faith in one’s own experience—but has your “inner certainty” ever failed you? Have you ever been wrong? If you feel that you have never been wrong, this is not all that uncommon either, as we can infer from Psychology Today: What kind of emotion tends to lead us astray? Well, one of the most powerful is the need to feel in control. Countless psychological experiments have shown that for both humans and animals, helplessness in the face of danger is intensely stressful. Believing that we have power over our destiny helps relieve that negative experience, even when that belief is unfounded. Hence the enormous appeal of “magical thinking”—the belief that one’s thoughts and private gestures by themselves can influence the surrounding world (“The Grandeur of Delusion,” March 8, 2013). “What is truth?” Close to 2,000 years ago, a proud Roman presided over the prosecution of a most unusual Man. This Roman’s world was filled with practical military and government matters. “What is truth?” Pontius Pilate asked (John 18:38). The Man before him had said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Was this Man a fiction, a liar, a deluded fool, or God in the flesh and the source of eternal truth? It would certainly be worthwhile for you to prove the answer to yourself. Truth, at its core, is an aspect of God’s nature. That truth will deliver humankind (John 8:32). There is only one way to deliverance: through Jesus Christ, that Man who stood before Pilate (Acts 4:12). Most succinctly, God’s word is truth (John 17:17). Jesus Christ is also called the Logos, which can be translated Word or Spokesman (John 1:1). The Bible was not written by just any men, “but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). Scripture is “given by inspiration of God”

(2 Timothy 3:16), meaning it is “God-breathed.” In order for you to write a genuinely holy book that was truly your own, you would need to be God. You would need to create the sun, moon, stars, and all biological life. You would need to predict the future with perfect accuracy. You would need to establish kings, bring nations 58 percent of to their knees, and raise the Americans believe dead to life. Can the Bible be misused? moral truth is Yes—there are many wrong individually approaches to Scripture. The decided. Among devil’s ministers appear as ministers of righteousness (2 evangelicals, a Corinthians 11:13–15). Many surprising 46 who quote Scripture may be percent reject twisting and distorting it “to their own destruction” (2 absolute moral Peter 3:16). Have the world’s truth. dominant forms of Christianity proved themselves better than the other religions out there? Apparently not, since strife, war, and suffering have plagued even the most “Christian” nations. Request a free copy of Satan’s Counterfeit Christianity or read it at TomorrowsWorld.org to find out why much that is considered Christian is not biblical at all. Living and Powerful Truth is more than a feeling. When God opens the human mind, it understands what it could not before (Luke 24:45). The voice of God flows from the Holy Scripture, alive and dynamic, deepening for Christians as they respond to God and experience life. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). Perhaps Pontius Pilate had a veneer of confidence and pride, but—at least according to the historian Eusebius—he eventually committed suicide in disgrace. Even the wealthiest and most powerful are not immune to doubt hanging over their hearts and minds. Don’t miss out on the truths contained in the Bible—give the Bible a chance to help. You can start by requesting a free copy of The Bible: Fact or Fiction? or reading it at TomorrowsWorld.org. TW

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NE W G OD S, N EW SIN S CO N T IN UED F R O M PAGE 1 9

be safe until the patriarchy is destroyed, the “new god” of social transformation is prepared to bless your cause. If you believe capitalism is the real bane of society, the revolution is ready with placards, signs, and even Molotov cocktails to help you press for socialism, communism, or even anarchy, as you prefer. If you believe that your children being judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin is not enough, the god of social transformation is ready to arm you with Critical Race Theory for battle on social media and indoctrination in schools and workplaces. All “new gods” bring “new sins.” For the god of social revolution, the greatest sin is, increasingly, thoughtcrime—taken right out of the pages of George Orwell’s 1984. Those who think differently from the acolytes of social revolution are “canceled” and publicly disavowed. University professors are threatened with loss of tenure. Popular writers such as J.K. Rowling are threatened with boycotts. Even media superstars find their livelihoods endangered by discoveries of past tweets or comments to the media, as inquisitions examine every public statement to ensure their thinking is “pure.” Sometimes, after paying penance through very public apologies and declaring fidelity to the new faith, individuals may be forgiven—though they tend to be viewed suspiciously even after slavish “repentance.” These “new gods” and their followers simply do not tolerate the “sin” of “wrong” thinking. In a sense, these “new gods” are more like the “old gods” of ancient mythology than they might at first seem. As though acting out the stories of the Greek gods bickering back and forth in jealousy and spite, these false gods do the same. For instance, scientific studies that disagree with the conclusions of sexual anarchists are deemed hateful and inaccurate—not on factual grounds, but ideological ones. And even within the individual faiths generated by these “new gods,” there is internal strife and conflict. Some of the most passionate and ugly debating you will find on the Internet takes place among feminists and gender-identity advocates. The Ancient Deceiver But these “new gods” are older than they appear. Each is a manifestation of a very different sort of false

MAY WE S U G G EST?

god, a real being who has reigned here on earth for quite some time: Satan, the devil. Calling him “the god of this age”—or, in the King James Version, “the god of this world”—the Apostle Paul explains how Satan uses tactics like these false gods and idols of the heart to distract people from the truth that the real God would have them understand: “But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them” (2 Corinthians 4:3–4). Ever since the devil enticed Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil—and Adam readily followed his wife’s lead by doing the same— human beings have trusted in their own philosophies, systems of government, and assumptions about the world around them, instead of being guided by the God who made them and who has a purpose for them. Today’s “new gods” are simply the latest examples of deceived humanity’s misplaced trust in our own foolishness. The Almighty God Thankfully, God has not abandoned us to such foolishness. He will send Jesus Christ back to this earth to restore all things and to usher in the Kingdom of God—the only true hope for humanity. In the light of that Kingdom, the “new gods” will be judged and found wanting, just as the false gods of Egypt were when the Almighty freed the children of Israel. Science will return to its natural place as scientists use their God-given minds to explore and understand the world He created. Sexual anarchy will end as men and women follow the guidelines given by the One who created sex. The environment will be healed, and people will learn balanced ways to maintain it for the good of all. The ultimate social transformation will have taken place—all of society will look to the real God for His guidance, wisdom, and love. May Christ soon save us from these “new gods” by pointing the world to the true One. TW

The Real God: Proofs and Promises Drown out the false gods with knowledge of the real One! Request this free printed booklet from the Regional Office nearest you, or order at TomorrowsWorld.org.  PDF, ePub, and Kindle are also available.

24  Tomorrow’s World  |  March 2021

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CAN YOU HAVE HABITUAL JOY? The way to true happiness starts with a choice.

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ou’ve undoubtedly heard that “We’re all creatures of habit.” What about you? Are you experiencing joy from positive, healthy habits that bring happiness? Or, are you trapped by vicious negative habits and destructive behaviors that rob you of a joy-filled life? Do you want to change? There is hope! God has given you free moral agency—you have the power to choose to change! Historian Will Durant memorably summed up the philosopher Aristotle’s view of character: “Virtues are formed in man by his doing the actions; we are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit” (The Story of Philosophy, vol. 7, p. 87). Are your habits virtuous? American statesman Benjamin Franklin suggested an ongoing overhaul: “Each year one vicious habit rooted out, in time might make the worst man good throughout” (Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1738). The Choice We All Have Yes, character is a free moral choice, as it has been from the beginning. In the Garden of Eden, Eve knew that God had warned her not to eat from the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, “lest you die” (Genesis 3:2–3). Yet Eve accepted the serpent’s lie that she would not die if she ate from the forbidden tree’s fruit (Genesis 3:4–6). She chose to eat from the forbidden fruit, and thereby sinned. She exercised her free moral agency, her human freedom to choose—but in a way that brought suffering, not joy. Sadly, Adam followed his wife’s lead, and humanity, under Satan’s sway, has followed the path of habitual sin for nearly 6,000 years of human existence. In our modern world, some habitually abuse alcohol; others are trapped in the subculture of drugs; others are chained to cancer-causing cigarettes. Still others dabble in the shadowy world of the occult, often unaware of its seductive entrapments. There are, however, other bad habits that may not come to mind as easily as those just listed, as they may not seem “as bad”—gossiping, telling “little white lies,” cutting corners in the workplace, or putting

your good ahead of others’, to name just a few. The key to really overcoming these bad habits, these obstacles to a more joyous life, lies in a decision to want to change—that desire must come first! The Help We All Need Even with all human effort mustered against bad habits, mankind would still be unable to achieve Franklin’s hope of becoming “good throughout.” Even with all However, through fervent human effort prayer to the Creator God, mustered against beseeching Him for His help, and using our free moral bad habits, agency with the help of the mankind would Holy Spirit, the fruits of that still be unable Spirit—including joy (Galatians 5:22)—can be ours to achieve Franklin’s hope of habitually. All bad habits, when becoming “good fully understood, flow from the transgression of some throughout.” aspect of God’s law, which is summarized by the Ten Commandments. Jesus Christ spoke to this point when He said, “Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:19). If God is calling you to an understanding of His truth, you can have the power to break the habits that transgress the clear teachings of the Bible. God created you with free moral agency. This means that you have the ability to choose to turn to God and start seeking the power to overcome that can only come from Him. And you need not do it alone—once you repent and are properly baptized, you will receive the help of the indwelling Holy Spirit. To learn more, read What Is a True Christian? and The Ten Commandments at TomorrowsWorld.org, or order your very own free copies. As you replace bad habits with good ones, you can indeed have habitual joy in your life—and your loving, all-powerful Creator is there to help! —Adam J. West

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  25

Tomorrow’s

FAMILIES TODAY

The Bible, Your Children, and You

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rom the moment they are born, our children become one of the most important parts of our life. We delight in watching them grow, change, and become the best people that they can be—but we also feel the weight of responsibility for our part in helping them become those people. God has designed this natural and necessary sense of parental responsibility to establish a legacy of learning from one generation to the next. In Deuteronomy 6, God instructed the Israelites to pass His commands on to the next generation. He said, “You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up” (v. 7). So, we have a mandate to teach our children the Bible’s timeless truths—to make this book familiar to them. While this may be a simple goal, in actual practice it can seem overwhelming. How should I teach the Bible to my three-year-old? How should I teach it to my seven-year-old? How do I keep my twelve-year-old child interested in the Bible when he prefers playing video games? Here are some suggestions. Read the Bible As we prepare for our first little student, we may get quite excited about the myriad of children’s Bible helps that are available in all shapes, sizes, and approaches. There are books that tell biblical stories in simplified form with pictures that grab a child’s attention. Cartoons depict biblical characters as superheroes and talking vegetables. Board games can take a child on a journey through biblical principles.

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But while these are not necessarily wrong to use to supplement our teaching, they should not replace the actual reading of the Bible, through which children can learn the emphasis, phrasing, and word flow of its passages. A good modern translation is not overly complex—for example, the New King James Version, our standard translation at Tomorrow’s World, is simple, concise, and clear. How do we adapt our teaching to a child’s age? The answer requires judgment on our part. Reading the Bible to very small children may involve selecting stories to which they can relate. We may explain words to them or ask them questions to help them with comprehension, but we must always gauge what is appropriate for them according to their age and understanding. As they grow older, their ability to understand vocabulary, situations, and concepts will broaden. In fact, how well we know our children is key to adding other elements to enrich our Bible teaching. For example, as a child matures, a parent can selectively add context—showing places on a map, explaining some of the history behind what is being read, or explaining unfamiliar words and concepts. Sometimes situations from the child’s own life provide opportunities for parents to illustrate biblical principles and instructions. Very young children soak up everything they hear, but as they develop, their brains become more geared toward asking questions and making connections. Recognizing and engaging this proclivity helps to keep them interested. Don’t forget to ask children to participate in reading the Bible aloud when their reading skills reach the point where this is practical—this increases

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THE B I B L E, YO UR C HI L D R EN , AN D YOU

their engagement and helps them practice their reading and increase their comprehension. What about other biblical resources? For children, activities based on biblical passages can be fun and bring details to life. For example, creating a life-sized cutout of Goliath makes a real impression on a young mind, and coloring pictures of Noah and the ark, Moses and the Red Sea, or Elijah being taken up into the sky cements the biblical narrative. There are many games and activities that can enhance the learning experience. The Key Ingredient While it’s good to implement tips, tools, and techniques, let’s not forget why we are reading the Bible to our children in the first place: to “Train up a child in the way he should go,” so that “when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). In other words, our objective is not to train our children to just repeat what they have learned. Memorizing the Bible would be a remarkable feat—but is that what we need to teach our children? No. Our goal is to teach them the right way to act, feel, and think. If we can teach them the principles of God and help them apply these principles in daily life, we are not only giving them a map, but also showing them how to follow it on life’s road. What is the key to successfully accomplishing this purpose? Following that map ourselves. You see, all the Bible reading and game playing we do will only create cynical children if they don’t see

us applying what we teach. Children are quick to spot hypocrisy and where we fall short. When we read to them about Moses’ angry outburst and God’s disapproval, do we think they won’t remember that when we lose our temper with them, with our spouse, or with others? When we teach them to “Let another man praise All the Bible you, and not your own mouth; reading and game a stranger, and not your own lips” (Proverbs 27:2), but playing we do constantly draw attention to will only create ourselves, can we somehow cynical children if think that they won’t see they don’t see us hypocrisy? What about how we talk applying what we of other people? Throughout teach. Children the Bible, gossip is roundly are quick to spot condemned—and we can hardly avoid the scriptures hypocrisy! emphasizing this. How do we exemplify this principle in their eyes? Moreover, how honest are we? How lovingly do we treat our spouse? Do we take God’s name in vain? Do we keep the Sabbath holy? The challenge with reading the Bible to our children is that as they come to believe what we are teaching them, they will come to measure us by our words of training. Little eyes ultimately see us, for better or worse, as we really are. Teaching our children can actually help us to become, ourselves, the best that we can be. Putting It Together Parental example can and should be a good thing—even one parent’s good example can reinforce the words of the Bible in a powerful way. When the Apostle Paul wrote to his protégé Timothy, he highlighted the profound faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother, which left deep impressions on the young man even though his father was evidently not a believer (2 Timothy 1:5). By getting into the habit of reading the Bible to our children, we lay a groundwork of familiarity with the invaluable principles that will help them become truly successful. As we both encourage and correct our children, and do so without hypocrisy, our words will echo the words that come from our Father, who continually trains us in the way that we should go—and, through us, trains them. —Jonathan McNair

March 2021  |  Tomorrow’s World  27

NEWSWATCH

Mark 13:37 | “And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”

The End of American Space Dominance? Currently, America owns or operates around half of the known satellites in space (Ga-

God promised the descendants of Abraham that they would possess the “gates” of their enemies (Genesis 24:60). That prophecy was

Mockups of the New Generation Launch Vehicles on display during the twelfth China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition testone Institute, November 2, 2020). In 2020, the United States essentially kept up with China in terms of newly launched satellites. However, in March 2021, China plans to begin launching new satellites into space at a rate of about one every 14 days. The balance of space power could be shifting. In addition to the number of satellites, there is also a shift in weaponizing space. America has intentionally deferred launching satellite-based weaponry, but China is placing lasers on satellites, ostensibly for “destroying space junk”— lasers that could easily target other satellites. Should the U.S. lose key satellites, it could become “blind” when it comes to aviation and military operations. According to a number of observers, Russia and China are both ahead of the U.S. when it comes to offensive capabilities in space, and that is not likely to change.

fulfilled as Britain and the U.S. came into the possession of many of their enemies’ land and sea gates. However, they no longer control all of those chokepoints. Similarly, though America has long been the undisputed master of space, it appears to be losing its supremacy in that domain. This is yet another sign of the coming demise of the Israelite-descended nations—because they have turned away from God—as their enemies gain the higher ground (Deuteronomy 28:43–47). Risk of Nile Water Crisis New satellite data concerning the Nile River Basin reveals the growing threat of a water crisis (The Conversation, November 4, 2020). Despite the rain in recent years, studies show that the region is highly “stressed,” and that is only projected to increase as the population in the area continues to grow.

28  Tomorrow’s World  |  March 2021

The Nile River flows through eleven African nations and provides water to a quarter of Africa’s population. Water from the Nile is crucial for development and for producing food and energy. One big challenge comes from the fact that water rights are not evenly distributed. Upriver nations have major water needs, yet downriver Egypt relies on the Nile to provide 80 percent of its water. Egypt and Sudan are also worried by the new Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project now underway on one of the Nile’s main tributaries, the Blue Nile. The current water stress is just the tip of the iceberg, as the population of the region dependent on Nile River water is projected to grow to 800 million by the year 2050. Jesus Christ foretold that “wars and rumors of wars” would be one of the signs that would precede His return at the end of the age (Matthew 24:4–8). Water has long been a volatile issue in the Middle

East and regions of Africa, but it is a critical factor in other parts of the world as well. While some fight for power or oil, wars over water could also emerge as populations expand in water-stressed areas of the world. European Union Seeks Less Reliance on North Atlantic Treaty Organization “After four years of hostility towards NATO by U.S. President Donald Trump, the EU, led by France, wants to become a stand-alone military power… strong enough to fight on its own” (Reuters, November 19, 2020). EU defense ministers are working on a “Strategic Compass” document, described as “the path for the EU to plan, spend and cooperate together in countering next-generation threats.” EU leaders have commented, “Europe is going to have to work out how to do more things for itself” (Deutsche Welle, November 4, 2020).

The Nile River Basin as seen from space at night

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NEWSWATCH Each EU nation is also ramping up its own military preparations. France is already carrying out hightech military training using modern, upgraded military equipment (Defense News, November 19, 2020). In a recent interview, the Vice Admiral commanding the French surface fleet observed, “What we’re trying to do is to permanently improve the equation between our training and the reality of the theaters where we might be deployed.” France is preparing for future wars and developing the ability to win them. Much of the world no longer sees the U.S. as a military leader, with its willingness to lead seemingly diminished and the gap between its capabilities and those of its rivals seemingly shrinking. As geopolitical tides shift, we appear to be watching not only the decline of U.S. military might and influence, but also the rise of a future European military power.

Sleep and COVID-19 Scientists and medical professionals have long known that sleep benefits the immune system and reduces the likelihood of one getting sick. Psychology Today reported that “A large body of research shows that when sleep is experimentally shortened by having volunteers restrict their sleep duration, the presence of inflammatory markers in their blood rises and numbers of T helper cells that secrete cytokines and natural killer cells decrease” (May 11, 2020). Without sufficient sleep, the immune system grows weaker and the body cannot effectively fight off infection. The negative effect of sleep deprivation on the immune system has been observed with just one night of insufficient sleep. In one study, people who slept seven hours or less were three times more likely to contract a virus that causes colds than those who had eight or more hours of sleep. In order to stay healthy and lower the risk of contracting

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COVID-19 or other infections, we must work to maintain a regular sleep cycle and get adequate amounts of rest. One of the ways to sleep well is to work diligently and include as much physical activity as we can throughout the day. Mental and physical labors give us a feeling of fulfillment, and also tire us in a healthy way to improve our sleep. The Bible notes that “The sleep of a laboring man is sweet” (Ecclesiastes 5:12) and God assures us that “He gives His beloved sleep” (Psalm 127:2). Hunger Growing in the United States Hunger is a problem that has historically been limited primarily to the developing world. But that is changing, due in part to COVID-19. Public school closures and job loss can be blamed for removing both food sources and money to buy food. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, “nearly 26 million adults do not have enough food. Among households with children, the number was as high as 1 in 6 adults” (The Hill, November

25, 2020). In the city of Houston, Texas, “20 percent of adults in the city of 7 million people reported going hungry, including 30 percent of adults in households with children.” The non-profit organization Feeding America reports a 60 percent increase in food assistance needs since March (CNN, November 12, 2020). It also predicts that more than 54 million Americans are in danger of food insecurity. Forty percent of those seeking food assistance have never sought it before. Other developed nations, including Britain, are also experiencing increased first-time food assistance needs. God promised the Israelite-descended nations an abundance of food—if they obeyed His laws (Deuteronomy 28:1–4, 11). However, God warned these nations that food shortages and hunger would occur if they turned away from Him (vv. 15–18). What we are seeing now is the start of something prophesied to grow worse if our nations do not turn to God. TW

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L E T T E R S T O TW TE LL U S WH AT YO U T H INK

A word to say thanks for the booklet Prophecy Fulfilled: God’s Hand in World Affairs. What a blessing! I really enjoyed reading it and am going to share it with my neighbor in this time of confusion. No worry. God is still in charge! And thank you all for all the hard work you do. — Subscriber in Texas I’m so happy to be reading Tomorrow’s World magazine, very informative and gives us a real perspective of current world events as they pertain to Bible prophecies! Thank you and please keep the magazines coming! — Subscriber in Puerto Rico Cannabis is in no way hallucinogenic. I’m praying you find clarity, but it does look like you don’t understand just how important cannabis is. The Bible does say everything God created is good, but it also says that not everything is beneficial, meaning it’s supposed to be a medical thing. Please understand that. You are just spreading unnecessary fear over a plant God placed here. May God show you the truth. God bless. — Email from a Reader Editor’s Note: The email above is from a reader of our booklet Marijuana: What They Aren’t Telling You. The misunderstanding of both cannabis and Scripture on display in this email is common. Interestingly, most people don’t make the same arguments about smoking tobacco—or poison ivy. The facts about cannabis are plain, even if they are unpopular. To get your own copy of this booklet, contact one of our Regional

Editor in Chief | Gerald E. Weston Editorial Director | Richard F. Ames Executive Editor | Wallace G. Smith Managing Editor | John Robinson Senior Editor | William Bowmer Regional Editors | Robert Tyler (Australasia)  | Stuart Wachowicz (Canada)  | Peter Nathan (Europe) Editorial Assistants | William L. Williams  | Thomas J. White Graphic Designer | Benjamin Graham Asst. Copy Editors | Sandy Davis | Linda Ehman  | Genie Ogwyn Circulation Manager | Joshua Penman Digital Subscriptions | Jason Talbott Business Manager | Dexter B. Wakefield

Image(s) used under license from Shutterstock.com unless otherwise noted. P. 11 commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Artus_ Wolffort_-_St_Andrew_-_WGA25857.jpg P. 28 testing / Shutterstock.com Tomorrow’s World® is published ten times per year by the Living Church of God™, 2301 Crown Centre Drive, Charlotte, NC 28227. ©2021 Living Church of God. Printed in the U.S.A. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned.

Offices, listed on page 4 of this magazine, or visit TomorrowsWorld.org. Just a note to thank you for sending me the Bible Study Course and Tomorrow’s World magazine! I do look forward to each of them. I don’t know how you are able to print and mail copies of more than 400,000 subscribers at no cost to any of us. Thank you so very much for all you have done to make all this possible. — Subscriber in Ohio Hi, I just wanted to say thank you for all the work that you do. If I did not find you, I don’t know where I would be in my life at this time. God bless. Thank you. — Subscriber in Quebec You couldn’t be more wrong about the rapture. Would appreciate if you don’t know what you’re talking about, don’t say anything. Get your facts straight. 100% inaccurate. The Bible clearly states there will be a pre-trib rapture. Hope you can join us. — Comment from a Viewer Editor’s Note: Those who claim a “pre-trib rapture” need to read their Bible more carefully. Yes, some Christians will be protected on earth during the Tribulation, but most will not. And no one will ascend to meet Christ in the air until after the Tribulation, at the end of the Day of the Lord. If you’d like to begin exploring the question yourself, you can find our telecast “The Truth About the Rapture” by going to TomorrowsWorld.org and typing the title in the search bar on the home page. Postmaster: Send address changes to Tomorrow’s World, P.O. Box 3810, Charlotte, NC 28227-8010. Tomorrow’s World is protected through trademark registration in the United States, and by international treaties. Trademark registration pending in other countries. The symbol ®, appearing herein, does not indicate trademark registration in countries where it is not yet registered or protected by treaty. All scripture references are from the New King James Version (©Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers) unless otherwise noted.

Mail your letters to “Letters to the Editor” at one of the Regional Offices listed on page 4 of this magazine, or send email to Letters@TomorrowsWorld.org. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.

Television Log AUSTRALIA  Nationwide BARBADOS  St. Michael JAMAICA  Kingston

7Two

SU 7:00 a.m.

CBC 8

SU 9:30 a.m.

TVJ

SU 7:00 a.m.

Salinas San Francisco

NEW ZEALAND  Nationwide TVNZ2  Nationwide TVNZ2 +1 PHILIPPINES  Nationwide TV5 SOUTH AFRICA  Nationwide CTV/SA KION Access

CO Colorado Springs KXTU Grand Junc. KJCT

CANADA Nationwide Networks (All times Eastern) Vision SU 4:00 a.m. SU 4:30 a.m. SU 5:30 p.m. MO-FR 3:00 a.m. UNITED STATES Nationwide Networks (All times Eastern) CW Plus SU 8:00 a.m. MO 2:00 a.m. WE 1:30 a.m. WE 12:00 p.m. FOLK TV

FL

Gainesville Jacksonville Miami Ft. Lauderdale Panama City Tampa Bay

WCJB WCWJ WBFS WBFS WJHG WTOG

GA

Atlanta Atlanta Augusta Macon Macon Macon

COW WATL WAGT Cox Cox Cox

IA

Des Moines Dubuque Dubuque Dubuque

KCWI Mediacom Mediacom Mediacom

SU 9:00 a.m. ID Boise Idaho Falls SU 7:30 a.m.

getTV

IL Chicago

IMPACT

SU 11:00 p.m. Chicago MO 10:30 p.m. Moline

NewsNation

SU 6:00 a.m. Quincy WE 6:00 a.m. Springfield

Peoria

Springfield

The Word Network

SU 7:30 p.m. Springfield FR 7:00 p.m. Springfield

Z Living

SU 7:30 a.m. IN Fort Wayne KS Parsons

DISH Network* (All times Eastern) KY Bowling Green Impact Ch. 9397 SU 11:00 p.m. Latonia Latonia DIRECTV* (All times Eastern) Lexington Word Ch. 373 SU 6:30 p.m. Lexington SU 7:30 p.m. Louisville WE 11:30 p.m. LA Alexandria FR 7:00 p.m. Alexandria

For the most up-to-date listings please go to: TomorrowsWorld.org/tune-in AK

Anchorage Anchorage Fairbanks Juneau

GCI KYUR KATN KJUD

AL

Dothan Huntsville Huntsville Montgomery

WTVY WAMY WHDF WBMM

AR Fort Smith Fort Smith Little Rock

KHBS KFTA KASN

AZ Prescott Prescott Tucson

Community Community KMSB

CA

KGET KHSL KUVU-LP KION Spectrum KCWQ KCWQ-LP

Bakersfield Chico Eureka Monterey Orange County Palm Springs Palm Springs

Baton Rouge Lafayette Lake Charles Monroe New Orleans Shreveport

SA 10:00 p.m. SU 6:00 a.m. SU 6:00 a.m. SU 6:00 a.m. MA Malden

SU 7:00 a.m. MD Baltimore SU 9:30 a.m. Westminster SU 7:30 a.m. Westminster SU 7:00 a.m. ME Bangor SU 7:00 a.m. Brunswick SU 9:30 a.m. Brunswick SU 10:30 a.m. Presque Isle SU 12:30 p.m. MI Alpena SA 5:30 p.m. Kalamazoo SU 8:30 a.m. Kalamazoo Lansing SU 8:00 a.m. Marquette SU 8:00 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m. MN Cloquet SU 8:00 a.m. Duluth MO 5:00 p.m. Duluth SU 8:00 a.m. Duluth SU 8:00 a.m. Minneapolis

KYUU KIFI CANTV WJYS Mediacom WHOI WGEM WRSP Insight Insight Insight Comcast TWPAR WBKO PEG PEG WTVQ Insight WBNA KBCA KLAX WBRZ KATC KVHP KNOE WNOL KSHV Access Community Adelphia Adelphia WABI TV3 TV3 WBPQ WBAE CACTV CACTV WLAJ WBKP MEDCLO KDLH Public Access Public Access MTN

FR 9:00 a.m. FR 10:00 a.m. SU 12:00 a.m.

SU 8:00 a.m. Minneapolis WE 8:00 p.m. Minneapolis Minneapolis SU 10:30 a.m. Rochester SU 7:00 a.m. Roseville SU 8:00 a.m. Roseville SU 6:30 a.m. St. Paul SU 6:30 a.m. MO Columbia SU 6:30 a.m. Joplin SU 7:00 a.m. Kansas City SU 8:00 a.m. St. Louis SU 9:30 a.m. MS Biloxi SU 10:00 a.m. Columbus SU 8:00 a.m. Greenwood SU 5:00 p.m. Jackson TU 7:30 a.m. Jackson FR 2:00 p.m. Meridian SU 7:00 a.m. MT Billings MO 3:30 p.m. Butte MO 7:30 p.m. Butte TU 10:00 a.m. Glendive SU 7:00 a.m. Great Falls SU 7:00 a.m. Helena Missoula Various SU 8:00 a.m. NC Charlotte MO 5:00 p.m. Charlotte SU 7:00 a.m. Greenville SU 7:00 a.m. Hickory SU 7:30 a.m. Raleigh TU 5:00 a.m. ND Fargo TU 1:00 p.m. TU 10:00 p.m. NM Albuquerque Albuquerque SU 9:00 a.m. Albuquerque Santa Fe WE 7:00 p.m. Santa Fe SU 7:00 a.m. NV Reno WE 6:30 p.m. TH 10:00 p.m. NY Albany-Troy SU 7:00 a.m. Batavia Various Batavia SU 9:30 a.m. Batavia Binghamton SU 7:00 a.m. Binghamton SU 9:30 a.m. Binghamton SU 10:00 a.m. Brookhaven SU 7:00 a.m. Brooklyn SU 9:30 a.m. Canandaigua SU 7:00 a.m. Elmira SU 7:00 a.m. Hauppauge SU 10:00 a.m. Oneida SU 11:00 a.m. Oneida Queens SU 9:00 a.m. Queens TH 10:00 a.m. Riverhead FR 10:00 a.m. Rochester Syracuse SU 8:00 a.m. SA 8:30 a.m. OH Cincinnati SU 6:30 a.m. Cincinnati SU 8:00 a.m. Cincinnati Cincinnati SU 8:00 a.m. Cleveland SU 6:30 a.m. Fairborn WE 8:30 a.m. Lima SU 11:00 a.m. Lima SU 8:00 a.m. OK Oklahoma City SU 8:00 a.m. Tulsa SU 7:00 a.m. SA 11:00 a.m. OR Bend SU 7:00 p.m. Eugene TH 12:00 a.m. Medford

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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO  Nationwide CNC3-TV UK & NW EUROPE  WORD (TWN) Sky TV 590 Sky TV 590 Sky TV 590

SU 7:00 a.m. WE 6:00 a.m. MO 12:30 a.m. SA 12:00 a.m.

SU 11:00 a.m. NWCT NWCT NWCT KTTC CTV CTV Nbhd. Network

SA 10:30 p.m. SU 4:30 a.m. SU 10:30 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. WE 4:00 a.m. WE 12:00 p.m. SU 8:30 p.m.

Portland

PA Erie Johnstown Philadelphia

WDAY

SC SU 7:00 a.m. SU 8:30 a.m. SU 7:30 a.m. MO 6:30 a.m. SD SU 7:00 a.m. TN SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 10:00 a.m. WE 4:00 p.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. TX SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 9:00 a.m. SU 8:30 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m. MO 7:30 p.m. SU 7:30 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m.

KWBQ KCHF KCHF KCHF KCHF

SU 8:00 a.m. MO 7:30 p.m. FR 9:00 p.m. MO 7:30 a.m. FR 9:00 p.m.

KOMU KFJX KCWE KPLR WXXV WCBI WBWO Spectrum Spectrum WTOK KTVQ KBZK KXLF KWZB KRTV KMTF KPAX WAXN WMYT WNCT WHKY WRAZ

KREN

SU 8:00 a.m.

Spectrum Spectrum Spectrum Spectrum Spectrum Spectrum WBNG Cablevision BCAT Finger Lakes WENY Cablevision Access Access Public Access Public Access Cablevision Finger Lakes Spectrum

MO 3:00 p.m. SU 2:00 p.m. TU 5:30 p.m. FR 7:30 p.m. WE 10:00 p.m. FR 8:00 p.m. SU 8:00 a.m. MO 4:30 p.m. MO 4:30 p.m. SU 11:30 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m. MO 4:30 p.m. TH 2:00 p.m. TH 7:00 p.m. MO 11:00 p.m. TU 4:30 p.m. SU 7:00 p.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:30 p.m.

WSTR Spectrum Spectrum Spectrum WUAB CAC WBOH WBOH

SU 9:00 a.m. TH 8:30 a.m. SU 11:30 a.m. TU 1:00 p.m. SU 8:30 a.m. TU 12:00 p.m. SU 7:00 a.m. MO 7:00 a.m.

KSBI KQCW

SU 8:30 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m.

KTVZ KMTR KTVL

SU 8:00 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m.

Charleston Columbia Greenville Greenville Myrtle Beach

Community

SU 12:30 p.m.

WSEE Atl. Broadband WPSG

SU 8:00 a.m. MO 10:00 p.m. SU 7:30 a.m.

WCBD WOLO WYCW WGGS WWMB

SU 8:00 a.m. SU 11:00 a.m. SU 9:30 a.m. SU 11:30 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m.

Rapid City

KWBH

SU 7:00 a.m.

Jackson Knoxville Knoxville LaFollette Memphis

WBJK WKNX WKNX WLAF WLMT

SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:30 a.m. SU 6:00 p.m. WE 6:00 p.m. SU 10:00 a.m.

Abilene Amarillo Beaumont Beaumont Corpus Christi Laredo Lubbock Lufkin McAllen Midland Odessa San Antonio Tyler Waco

KTXS KVIH KBTV KFDM KRIS-DT2 KTXW KLCW KTRE KCWT KWES KWES KABB KLTV KYLE

SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 6:30 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 6:30 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 5:30 a.m. SU 6:00 a.m. SU 7:30 a.m.

UT Salt Lake City

KMYU

SU 7:00 a.m.

VA

Charlottesville Charlottesville Charlottesville Chesterfield Fairfax Fairfax Fairfax Norfolk Roanoke

Comcast WVIR ADELVA Comcast Public Access Public Access Public Access WSKY WWCW

MO 8:00 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m. WE 6:30 p.m. TH 6:30 p.m. MO 5:30 p.m. FR 1:00 a.m. SA 10:00 a.m. SU 9:30 a.m. SU 8:30 a.m.

VT

Bennington Bennington Bennington Bennington Bennington Bennington Burlington Burlington

CAT CAT CAT CAT CAT CAT Access Access

WE 9:30 a.m. WE 12:00 a.m. TH 9:30 p.m. TH 12:00 a.m. SA 8:00 a.m. SA 4:30 a.m. WE 2:30 a.m. TH 11:00 a.m.

WA Everett Kennewick Kennewick Seattle

Comcast Charter Charter KSTW

WE 4:30 p.m. SU 8:00 p.m. TU 8:00 p.m. SU 2:00 a.m.

WI La Crosse Milwaukee

WXOW WMLW

SU 7:00 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m.

WV Bluefield Charleston Clarksburg

WVVA WQCW WVFX

SU 8:00 a.m. SU 7:00 a.m. SU 8:00 a.m.

WY Cheyenne

KGWN

SU 8:00 a.m.

*Check local listings for additional airtimes throughout the week

The telecast is available on cable and broadcast stations around the world. Check your local listings for details, or go to TomorrowsWorld.org/tune-in.

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BIBLE STUDY COURSE

New Gods, New Sins

Modern society has invented new, false gods and sins. You can learn to recognize them! March 4–10

Slaves of “Freedom”

The “freedom” to do what we want is considered all-important—but at what cost? March 11–17

Amazing Bible Prophecies Fulfilled!

The Bible’s remarkable prophetic track record displays God’s hand in world affairs! March 18–24

A World on Fire

Our streets are filled with chaos and violence. Why? God’s word reveals the real answers. March 25–31

Did Christ’s Disciples Celebrate Easter?

It’s not a hard question if you are truly willing to use the Bible as your guide. April 1-7

Should You Be Baptized?

Salvation is easy to understand, yet most get it wrong. Here’s the plain truth of your Bible. April 8–14 Schedule subject to change

Learn exciting and inspiring truths from your Bible, absolutely free! Order online at TWBibleCourse.org or from the Regional Office nearest you! Take it in print or online.

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Sundays 8:00 a.m. E.T. Mondays 2:00 a.m. E.T. Wednesdays 1:30 a.m. E.T. Wednesdays 12:00 p.m. E.T. Find your local station on page 31 of this magazine.