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Coming from Dutch, New Zealand, and Israeli cultures in different phases of my life, all of which use plain speaking when people communicate with one another, American culture was different to me. Fear of giving offense in one’s conversation had led to a more sensitive style of language that often addresses points at issue indirectly or by “speaking sideways.” In dealing with this culture difference my challenge was learning to communicate with others so as not to offend or hurt feelings, yet being truthful and not living in denial about issues either. In raising our young family, for example, my wife and also my children would often say something like, “I don’t have a problem with what you are saying, just with the way you say it.”

“Their eyes are glazed so they cannot see, their minds are incapable of discernment” (Isaiah 44:18).
Spiritual blindness is just that—an unawareness of lacking discernment in things divine. Spiritually blind people don’t perceive the signs of the times or what God would have them do to save their souls. Can you name some personal spiritual insights you have received recently?

“As biblical history shows, even when his people in general apostatize and Jehovah hides his face or presence from them, certain ‘disciples’ remain loyal, as did the disciples or ‘sons of the prophets’ anciently (2 Kings 2:3–7; 4:38; 6:1). At such times, Jehovah withdraws the testimony of his truth and the law of his covenant from among his people and preserves them among those willing to live by them.