HEAVEN - YOUR BIBLE QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Who will go to heaven, and why?

Millions long for life in heaven. Jesus said that his faithful apostles would live there. Before he died, he promised to prepare a place for them with his heavenly Father.—Read John 14:2.

Why will people from earth be resurrected to life in heaven? What will they do there? Jesus told his apostles that they would be kings. They will rule over the earth.—Read Luke 22:28-30; Revelation 5:10.

Do all good people go to heaven?

In most lands, only a few people are rulers. Since Jesus resurrects people to heavenly life so that they can rule over the earth, we would expect those chosen to be few. (Luke 12:32) The Bible says exactly how many will rule with Jesus.—Read Revelation 14:1.

Jesus has prepared places in heaven for some of his followers. Do you know what they will do there?

Those going to heaven will not be the only ones rewarded. Faithful subjects of Jesus’ Kingdom will enjoy life without end in a restored paradise on earth. (John 3:16) Some will enter Paradise by surviving the destruction of the present wicked system of things. Others will enter by resurrection.—

 

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WHY SHOULD THE BIBLE INTEREST YOU?

  The Bible is by far the world’s most popular book. Why? For one thing, it is easy to identify with. It contains true-life accounts of real people and their interactions with one another and with God. These accounts teach practical lessons using simple and straightforward words that can be translated into hundreds of languages and understood by people living in any place or time period. And the Bible’s principles always work.

Most important, the Bible claims to be not just a book about God but also a book from God. It reveals God’s name, his personality, and his unchangeable purpose in creating the earth and humans. The Bible also relates the historic struggle of good versus evil: a fascinating, universal drama with a happy ending. Reading the Bible with an open mind thus lays a basis for faith and hope.

In the Bible, we find information available nowhere else. For example, the Bible tells us the truth about such topics as these:

·         Where we come from and why we suffer

·         God’s arrangement to redeem humankind

·         What Jesus has done for us

·         The future of the earth and humans

Why not take a brief look at the following pages and consider what the Bible is all about?

FAST FACTS ABOUT THE BIBLE

·         Theme: How God’s heavenly Kingdom will restore righteousness and peace to the earth

·         Contents: 39 books in Hebrew (with a few passages in Aramaic) plus 27 in Greek

·         Written: By some 40 writers over about 1,600 years, from 1513 B.C.E. to about 98 C.E.

·         Languages: Now translated in whole or in part into more than 2,500

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AVOID SPEECH THAT INJURES

The Bible’s Viewpoint

 

“Out of the same mouth come forth blessing and cursing. It is not proper, my brothers, for these things to go on occurring this way.”—JAMES 3:10.

THE ability to speak is one unique trait that separates us from the animals. Sadly, some people misuse this privilege. Insults, cursing, profanity, blasphemy, vulgarities, and obscene language can hurt—sometimes more than physical injuries. “There exists the one speaking thoughtlessly as with the stabs of a sword,” says the Bible.—Proverbs 12:18.

More and more people swear and curse routinely. Schools are reporting an increase in the use of foul language by children. Some people claim, though, that hurtful speech can be beneficial when used for emotional release. A student of political science wrote: “Using foul language should be a powerful act, when normal vocabulary just doesn’t convey the richness of our feelings.” Should Christians have such a casual attitude toward hurtful speech? How does God feel about it?

Abhor Obscene Jesting

Obscene language is not a modern phenomenon. Would it surprise you to learn that people used obscene speech in the days of the apostles, nearly 2,000 years ago? For example, it appears that some in the Colossian congregation used obscenities when angered. They may have done so to attack or hurt others intentionally, perhaps in retaliation. Likewise, many people today use obscene speech in outbursts of anger. Hence, Paul’s letter to the Colossians is relevant in our day. Paul wrote: “Put them all away from you, wrath, anger, badness, abusive speech, and obscene talk out of your mouth.” (Colossians 3:8) Clearly, Christians are admonished to avoid outbursts of anger and the obscene language that so often go hand in hand with anger.

Granted, many use obscenities with no intention of attacking or injuring others. Likely, obscene language is most often used in a casual manner. Vile expressions thus become deeply entrenched in everyday speech. Some even find it hard to communicate without the use of expletives. Oftentimes, obscene language is even used to elicit laughter. But should such obscene jesting be viewed as a lesser, more tolerable offense? Consider the following.

Obscene jesting is shocking language intended to amuse others. Today obscene jesting is mostly sex-oriented. And many who consider themselves decent people find such language entertaining. (Romans 1:28-32) It is not surprising, then, that both natural and unnatural sexual behaviors are the subject matter of many professional comedians. Obscene jesting is featured in many movies as well as in television and radio programs.

The Bible is not silent on the subject of obscene jesting. The apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Ephesus: “Let fornication and uncleanness of every sort or greediness not even be mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people; neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting, things which are not becoming.” (Ephesians 5:3, 4) Clearly, obscene language, regardless of its intent, is offensive to God. It is bad. It is speech that injures.

Harsh Words That Displease God

Injurious speech certainly encompasses much more than obscene language. Insults, sarcasm, mockery, and harsh criticism can hurt deeply. Admittedly, we all sin with our tongue, especially in the environment of sarcasm and backbiting that prevails around us. (James 3:2) Still, true Christians should never adopt a casual attitude toward abusive speech. The Bible establishes clearly that Jehovah God disapproves of all speech that injures.

For instance, in the Bible book of Second Kings, we learn of a group of boys who verbally harassed the prophet Elisha. The account says that they “began to jeer him” and “kept saying to him: ‘Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!’” Jehovah, who could read the hearts of these young ones and see their malicious intent, took their verbal abuse very seriously. The account says that God put 42 boys to death because of their abusive speech.—2 Kings 2:23, 24.

The people of Israel “were continually making jest at the messengers of the true God and despising his words and mocking at his prophets, until the rage of Jehovah came up against his people, until there was no healing.” (2 Chronicles 36:16) Although God’s rage was principally incited by his people’s idolatrous and disobedient course, it is noteworthy that the Bible specifically mentions the verbal abuse directed at God’s prophets. This highlights God’s outright disapproval of such conduct.

Accordingly, the Bible admonishes Christians: “Do not severely criticize an older man.” (1 Timothy 5:1) This principle could be applied to our dealings with everyone. The Bible encourages us “to speak injuriously of no one, not to be belligerent, to be reasonable, exhibiting all mildness toward all men.”—Titus 3:2.

Keeping Our Lips in Check

At times, the urge to attack someone verbally could be hard to resist. When wronged, a person might feel justified in punishing the offender with cruel, harsh words—either to his face or behind his back. Still, Christians resist such an urge. Proverbs 10:19 states: “In the abundance of words there does not fail to be transgression, but the one keeping his lips in check is acting discreetly.”

God’s angels set a good example. They are aware of all the wrong that is done by humankind. Although the angels are greater than man in strength and power, they do not bring against humans an accusation in abusive terms, “not doing so out of respect for Jehovah.” (2 Peter 2:11) Knowing that God is fully aware of everyone’s wrongdoing and is fully capable of correcting matters, the angels keep their lips in check. Michael, the chief of all angels, refrained from using abusive terms, even against the Devil.—Jude 9.

Christians strive to imitate the angels. They follow the Bible admonition: “Return evil for evil to no one. Provide fine things in the sight of all men. If possible, as far as it depends upon you, be peaceable with all men. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but yield place to the wrath; for it is written: ‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says Jehovah.’”—Romans 12:17-19.

Interestingly, even the tone and volume of our voice can add a hurtful edge to what we say. It is not uncommon for husbands and wives to hurt each other in shouting matches. Many parents often scream at their children. However, there is no need for us to scream when expressing our feelings. The Bible urges: “Let all malicious bitterness and anger and wrath and screaming and abusive speech be taken away from you.” (Ephesians 4:31) The Bible also says that “a slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle toward all.”—2 Timothy 2:24.

Words That Heal

Because of the prevalence of abusive and obscene speech today, Christians should have a strategy to resist this harmful influence. The Bible provides a good strategy, namely, to love our neighbor. (Matthew 7:12; Luke 10:27) Genuine concern and love for neighbor will motivate us always to use words that heal. The Bible says: “Let a rotten saying not proceed out of your mouth, but whatever saying is good for building up as the need may be, that it may impart what is favorable to the hearers.”—Ephesians 4:29.

Also, the implanting of the Word of God in our minds helps us to avoid speech that injures. Reading and meditating on the Holy Scriptures can help us to “put away all filthiness.” (James 1:21) Yes, the Word of God can heal our minds.

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ARE ALL RELIGIONS DIFFERENT ROADS LEADING TO GOD?

The Bible’s Viewpoint

“I FIND it literally incredible that the God of the whole universe has chosen to be known by one religious tradition,” stated author Marcus Borg. Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu said: “No religion can claim to have the whole truth about the mystery” of faith. A popular Hindu view is “Jotto moth, totto poth,” which means when loosely translated that all religions are but different roads leading to the same goal. Buddhists also share this viewpoint. Indeed, millions of people believe that all religions are different roads leading to God.

Historian Geoffrey Parrinder stated: “It is sometimes said that all religions have the same goal, or are equal ways to the truth, or even that all teach the same doctrines.” The teachings, rituals, and deities of religions are indeed similar. Most religions speak about love and teach that murder, stealing, and lying are wrong. In most religious groups, some put forth sincere efforts to help others. So, then, if one is sincere in his beliefs and tries to live a good life, does it matter what religion he belongs to? Or are all religions just different roads leading to God?

Sincerity Alone—Is It Enough?

Consider the case of the first-century Jewish man named Saul, who became the Christian apostle known as Paul. He was a very zealous adherent of Judaism, and this led him to try to stamp out the worship of the followers of Christ, which worship he felt was improper. (Acts 8:1-3; 9:1, 2) But through God’s mercy Saul came to realize that very religious people like himself might have a zeal for God, and yet, because of not having all the facts, they might be wrong. (Romans 10:2) When Saul learned more about God’s will and dealings, he changed and began to worship with the very ones he had been persecuting—the followers of Jesus Christ.—1 Timothy 1:12-16.

Does the Bible say that there are hundreds of faiths to choose from and that whichever one we select will be all right with God? The apostle Paul received instructions from the resurrected Jesus Christ that said quite the contrary. Jesus sent him to people of the nations “to open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light and from the authority of Satan to God.” (Acts 26:17, 18) Clearly, our choice of religion does matter. Many of the people to whom Paul was sent already had a religion. But they were in “darkness.” Indeed, if all religions were simply different roads leading to life everlasting and God’s favor, there would have been no need for Jesus to train his followers for the disciple-making work that he commissioned them to do.—Matthew 28:19, 20.

In his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said: “Go in through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.” (Matthew 7:13, 14) The Bible explicitly states that there is “one faith.” (Ephesians 4:5) Clearly, many who are on the “broad” road have a religion. But they do not have the “one faith.” Since there is only one true form of worship, those who desire to find that true faith will have to seek it out.

Search for the True God

From the very beginning of man’s history, God has told humans what he wants them to do. (Genesis 1:28; 2:15-17; 4:3-5) Today his requirements are clearly explained in the Bible. This makes it possible for us to distinguish between acceptable worship and unacceptable worship. (Matthew 15:3-9) Some people have inherited their religion, while others just go along with the majority in the community. For many, religion is simply a matter of when and where they were born. However, should you leave your choice of religion to chance or let others make this decision for you?

Your choice of religion should be an informed one based on a careful examination of the Scriptures. In the first century, certain educated people did more than simply accept the apostle Paul’s words at face value. They ‘carefully examined the Scriptures daily as to whether these things were so.’ (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1) Why not do the same yourself?

The Bible describes the God of the universe as looking for people to worship him with truth. As recorded at John 4:23, 24, Jesus explained: “Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for, indeed, the Father is looking for suchlike ones to worship him. God is a Spirit, and those worshiping him must worship with spirit and truth.” Only “worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father” is acceptable to him. (James 1:27) God has blessed the search of millions to find the narrow road that leads to life. He will not give eternal life to the indifferent but rather to those who put forth a real effort to find the narrow way he has set out and then follow it.—Malachi 3:18.

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DO THE STARS AFFECT YOUR LIFE?

The Bible’s Viewpoint

 

Does he love me?

Should I travel today?

Will I get that job?

TO ANSWER questions such as those above, many turn to astrology. But do the stars really affect your life? Can they help you learn about your future, or about yourself? What does the Bible say?

Can the Stars Influence Our Future?

Some people believe that we cannot escape our destiny. The future has already been written, they say, and the stars can reveal it. But the Bible indicates otherwise. It tells us that God gives people a choice, which implies that they have a certain degree of control over what happens to them. For example, he told the Israelites: “I have put life and death before you, the blessing and the malediction; and you must choose life in order that you may keep alive, you and your offspring.”—Deuteronomy 30:19.

With those words, Jehovah God made it clear to his people that they had a large degree of control over their future. If they obeyed his commands, they would experience blessings. If they disobeyed, they would bring hardship upon themselves.

Consider: If the future of each Israelite had already been written in the stars, would it make sense for God to urge them to choose life? Would it even be fair for God to hold them accountable for actions over which they had no control?

The lesson from the Bible is clear: Our life course depends on the choices we make—not on the stars.—Galatians 6:7.

Can the Stars Influence Our Personality?

Most astrologers downplay the idea of predestination. “We control our own destiny,” claims one, but he adds: “On the other hand, the time of our birth has an influence on the structure of our personality.” Many people believe similarly. They feel that since the stars and planets exert a physical influence on our earth, why would they not also have a metaphysical effect? What does the Bible indicate?

The Bible is not a scientific textbook, spelling out every detail about the human body and the universe. However, it does explain the purpose for which Jehovah created the heavenly bodies. Genesis 1:14, 15 states: “God said, ‘I command lights to appear in the sky and to separate day from night and to show the time for seasons . . . I command them to shine on the earth.’”—Contemporary English Version.

Consider: If God had designed the stars to influence our personality, would he not have told us so?

What can we conclude? That the stars are part of God’s creative work but do not influence our personality.

A Better Approach

If we desire to learn about our future or understand ourselves, that is commendable. But there is a better place to look than to the stars.

The Bible describes Jehovah God as “the One telling from the beginning the finale.” (Isaiah 46:10) He has a purpose, which he will bring to success. (Isaiah 55:10, 11) We can learn about God’s purpose by reading the Bible. This ancient sacred book also explains why we suffer and how God will bring an end to the very conditions that plague mankind.—2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-4.

When it comes to learning about and improving ourselves, the Bible is the best place to look for guidance. Why? Because reading it helps us to take an honest look at ourselves. For example, the Bible states that Jehovah God is “merciful,” “slow to anger,” and “ready to forgive.” (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 86:5) But are we like that? The Bible can expose our erroneous thinking and help us see where we need to improve.

Therefore, we do not need to look to the stars to learn about our future or about ourselves. A better approach is to look to the Bible, which is “inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight.”—2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

[Footnotes]

Astrology is the study of the sun, moon, planets, and stars, with the belief that these heavenly bodies have an influence on us and can help us to understand ourselves.

For more information on God’s purpose, see chapter 3 of the book What Does the Bible Really Teach? published by Jehovah’s Witnesses.

HAVE YOU WONDERED?

● Why did God create the heavenly bodies?—Genesis 1:14, 15.

● How can you take a more objective view of your personality?—Hebrews 4:12.

● How can you know for sure what the future holds?—Isaiah 46:10.

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CYBERATTACK!

IMAGINE a platoon of expert computer criminals using the Internet to operate networks of hijacked computers. This army of computers, known as botnets (robot networks), unleashes a barrage of malicious computer code targeting a specific nation. Within minutes, that nation’s military, financial, and commercial Web sites crash. ATMs and phone networks fail. Airplanes are grounded, and computer and safety systems at a nuclear power plant are disrupted. How would people react? What would they do? What would you do?

Perhaps the above scenario seems far-fetched. But according to Richard A. Clarke, the former U.S. National Coordinator for Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Counterterrorism, something similar could happen in real life. In fact, there have already been cyberattacks. Perhaps you have even been a victim.

Why would anyone want to launch a cyberattack? How are cyberattacks carried out? And since cybercrime against individuals is common, how can you protect yourself online?

The Digital Battlefield

People launch cyberattacks for various reasons. Terrorists or governments, for instance, may try to infiltrate the computer networks of their enemies to steal secrets or to sabotage the equipment that those computer networks control. In 2010, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn III admitted that foreign “adversaries” had repeatedly attacked and penetrated classified U.S. computer networks and stolen “thousands of files . . . including weapons blueprints, operational plans, and surveillance data.”—See the box “Some Recent Cyberattacks.”

Computer criminals use similar methods to steal intellectual property or financial information from corporate networks and personal computers. Criminals reportedly rake in billions of dollars each year by means of fraudulent network transactions.

Criminal hackers have assembled vast armies of hijacked computers to carry out their online attacks. In 2009, an Internet security firm uncovered a criminal gang that remotely controlled a global network of nearly two million computers, many of them owned by private citizens. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) recently estimated that 1 in 3 online computers is remotely controlled by an intruder. What about your computer? Could someone commandeer it without your knowledge?

Silent Stalkers

Picture the following scenario. A criminal transmits a malicious program over the Internet. When the program finds your computer, it silently probes its online defenses. When it finds an unguarded door, it burrows deep into your computer and rummages around for useful information. The malicious program may then change or delete your computer files, e-mail itself to other computers, or send passwords, financial details, or other confidential information back to the intruder.

Computer criminals could even trick you into infecting your computer yourself! How? You may infect your own computer by opening an innocent-looking e-mail attachment, clicking on a Web page link, downloading and installing a free computer program, plugging an infected memory device into your computer, or simply visiting a questionable Web site. Each of these actions can install malicious software on your computer and bring it under the control of a remote intruder.

How can you know if your computer has been infected? It can be very difficult to detect. Your computer or Internet connection may seem very slow, your applications may not run, pop-up boxes may prompt you to install certain programs, or your computer may operate in an unusual way. If you note any of these symptoms, have a reputable technician check your computer.

‘Consider Your Steps’

As nations and individuals become more reliant on computer technology, cyberattacks will likely become more common. Accordingly, many nations are scrambling to beef up their digital defenses, and some are conducting large-scale exercises to test the resilience of their computer networks to attack. Still, “given enough time, motivation and funding,” admits Steven Chabinsky, a senior U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation computer security expert, “a determined adversary will always—always—be able to penetrate a targeted system.”

What can you do to protect yourself online? While complete online security may not be possible, you can take practical steps to make your computer more secure.   The Bible states: “The shrewd one considers his steps.” (Proverbs 14:15) Surely wise advice when you go online!

  

PROTECT YOURSELF!

 1. Install antivirus, spyware-detection, and firewall software on your computer. Keep that software and your operating system updated with all security updates.

 2. Think before you click on links or open attachments in e-mails or instant messages—even from friends. Be especially cautious if the mail is unsolicited and asks for personal information or passwords.

 3. Never copy or run software from unknown sources.

 4. Use passwords that have at least eight characters and include numbers and symbols, and change them regularly. Use different passwords for different accounts.

 5. Do business online only with reputable companies that use secure connections.

 6. Do not give out confidential information about yourself or your accounts when using unsecured Wi-Fi connections, such as in public places.

 7. Switch your computer off when it is not in use.

 8. Regularly back up your files, and store copies securely.

 May 2012 AWAKE MAGAZINE

 

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PROTECT YOURSELF FROM CRIME!

“My friends usually walked me home after dark. But one evening I was so tired that I decided to call a taxi.

“The driver didn’t take me home. Instead, he drove me to an abandoned field, where he tried to rape me. I screamed with all my might, and he backed off. When he came toward me again, I screamed and ran.

“In the past I had often thought, ‘How can screaming help?’ But I’ve learned that it works!”—KARIN. *

 

IN MANY lands, crime is an ever-present danger. For example, in one country a judge stated: “The sad reality is that it’s not if, but when, you will become a victim.” In other places, crime may be less common. Even so, it is unwise to become complacent, for complacency can lead to vulnerability.

Whether you live in a high-crime or a low-crime area, how can you make life safer for you and your loved ones? One practical step you can take is to heed this principle found in the Bible: “The wise see danger ahead and avoid it, but fools keep going and get into trouble.” (Proverbs 22:3, New Century Version) Indeed, police authorities advocate the taking of preventive measures—avoiding crime in the first place.

Physical injury and material loss are not the only consequences of crime. Many victims also suffer lasting mental and emotional harm. How important, then, that we do what we reasonably can to increase our safety! With that goal in mind, consider how you can take steps to protect yourself from four kinds of crime—robbery, sexual assault, cybercrime, and identity theft.

 

ROBBERY

What is it? Robbery is theft using force or threats of force.

How does it affect people? After a string of armed robberies in Britain, a prosecutor observed that although the victims suffered no physical harm, all suffered mental anguish. “Several of them report ongoing anxiety and sleep difficulties,” she said, “and virtually all of them say that their daily working lives have been gravely affected by what they experienced.”

What can you do?

Thieves are opportunists; be aware of your surroundings

Be aware. Thieves are opportunists. They like to prey on the unsuspecting. So watch the people who are watching you, be aware of your surroundings, and do not dull your senses or impair your judgment by overdrinking or misusing drugs. “When a person is drinking alcohol or using drugs,” it is harder for him “to think clearly and evaluate a potentially dangerous situation,” says a health encyclopedia.

·         Protect your property. Secure your vehicle and the doors and windows of your home. Never admit a stranger. Keep valuables out of sight; do not flaunt them. “Wisdom is with the modest ones,” says Proverbs 11:2. Thieves—including desperate children—often target people who parade expensive jewelry and electronics.

·         Seek advice. “The way of the foolish one is right in his own eyes, but the one listening to counsel is wise.” (Proverbs 12:15) If you are traveling, heed the advice of informed locals, including the authorities. They can point out places to avoid and show you how to protect yourself and your belongings.

 

SEXUAL ASSAULT

What is it? Sexual assault is not limited to rape but includes other forms of sexual contact involving threats, force, or intimidation.

How does it affect people? “The saddest thing is [that] it doesn’t just affect you while you’re being abused,” explains a rape victim. “It stays with you and haunts you for a long time and changes your outlook on life. It also changes the lives of your loved ones.” Of course, the victim is not responsible for the sexual assault. The aggressor bears that responsibility.

What can you do?

·         Do not ignore your feelings. “If a place or person makes you feel uncomfortable or uneasy—leave,” advises a police department in North Carolina, U.S.A. “Don’t let anyone convince you to stay if your instincts are telling you otherwise.”

·         Act confidently; be focused. Sexual predators hunt for the unsuspecting and vulnerable. So walk confidently and stay alert.

·         React quickly. Scream. (Deuteronomy 22:25-27) Escape or fight back using the element of surprise. And, if possible, run to a safe place and call the police. *

 

CYBERCRIME

What is it? Cybercrime refers to crime conducted online. It includes tax and welfare fraud, credit card fraud, and the nondelivery of purchases. It also includes scams, such as fraudulent investments and online auctions.

How does it affect people? Cybercrime costs the victims—and society as a whole—billions of dollars. Consider an example. Sandra received an e-mail that she assumed was from her bank asking her to update her online banking details. Minutes after sending her personal particulars, she was alarmed to see that $4,000 (U.S.) had been transferred from her account to a foreign bank. Sandra quickly discovered that she had been scammed.

What can you do?

·         Be wary! Do not be fooled by professional-looking Web sites, and keep in mind that legitimate financial institutions will not ask you to e-mail highly confidential information. Before buying or investing online, ascertain the company’s reputation. “Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps,” says Proverbs 14:15. And be cautious when dealing with companies located in foreign lands. If problems arise, it can be harder to resolve them.

·         Analyze a company and its policies. Ask yourself: ‘What is the company’s physical address? Is the phone number correct? Will my purchase involve hidden costs? When will my order be delivered? Can it be returned or refunded?’

·         Be suspicious if an offer looks too good to be true. The greedy and those who want something for nothing are prime targets for online thieves. The bait may include big money for minimal work, a loan or credit card even though you may have a poor credit rating, or large returns on “low-risk” investments. “Take your time in evaluating the legitimacy of any investment offer,” says the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). “The higher the promised return, the higher the risk. Don’t let a promoter pressure you into committing to an investment before you are certain it’s legitimate.”

IDENTITY THEFT

What is it? Identity theft involves illegally obtaining and using information about someone else’s personal identity in order to commit fraud or some other crime.

How does it affect people? Thieves may use your identity to obtain credit cards or loans or to open new accounts. Then they rack up debts in your name! Even if you eventually get the debts canceled, your financial reputation may remain tarnished for years. “Having a zero credit rating affects everything—it’s even worse than having money taken,” says a victim.

What can you do?

·         Protect sensitive information. If you bank or shop online, change your passwords regularly, especially if you have used a public computer. And as mentioned earlier, be highly suspicious of e-mails requesting sensitive personal information.

Identity thieves do not use computers only. They try any means they can to get their hands on important documents, such as bank statements, checkbooks, credit cards, and social security numbers. So keep these things safe, and shred all sensitive documents before discarding them. Of course, if you suspect that a document has been lost or stolen, report this immediately.

·         Keep track of your accounts. “Awareness is an effective weapon against . . . identity theft,” states the FTC, adding: “Early detection of a potential identity theft can make a big difference.” So check your accounts regularly, and look out for unusual transactions. If possible, get a copy of your credit report from a reputable agency, and note the accounts and credit cards linked to your name.

Of course, in today’s world there are no guarantees. Even the most cautious individuals have become victims of crime. That said, we always benefit from adhering to the wisdom and understanding found in the Bible. “Do not leave it, and it will keep you. Love it, and it will safeguard you.” (Proverbs 4:6) Better still, the Bible promises an end to crime.

Soon, an End to Crime

Why can we be confident that God will do away with crime? Consider the following:

·         God wants to end crime. “I, Jehovah, am loving justice, hating robbery along with unrighteousness.”—Isaiah 61:8.

·         He has the power to stop crime. “He is lifted high with power. And He is right and fair and good.”—Job 37:23, New Life Version.

·         He has promised to destroy the wicked and preserve the righteous. “Evildoers themselves will be cut off.” “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it.”—Psalm 37:9, 29.

·         He has promised his loyal ones a peaceful new world. “The meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.”—Psalm 37:11.

Do those words touch your heart? If so, please take the time to examine the Bible to learn more about God’s purpose for mankind. No other book is so rich in practical wisdom. And no other book gives us a genuine hope for a crime-free tomorrow. *

AWAKE magazine May 2013 issue

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