1. I heard a talk once which stated as much as you read, take the same amount of time to meditate on the content 50/50. This isn't so easy because I don't have so much time but I do try to stop and think of how it is related to these questions: How does this affect my relationship with God? How can this help others? What does this say about God's qualities?
2. On the basis of the Bible just one eg 10 commandments (Exodus 20) - very clear, simple and easy to read one by one and see who fulfills them or promotes them in their teachings and if their members don't live by them does their religion do something about it.
3. The Bible isn't a science book but it does have some information that is backed up by science (no matter what is said here on R&S). see the following article titled 'Reconciling science and religion' http://www.watchtower.org/e/20020608/article_01.htm
4. Prayer is our way of expressing ourselves to God. Many use it to ask but there should also be thanks, praise and gratefulness included.(Philippians 4:6) .*.*.Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let YOUR petitions be made known to God;
It is our way to draw closer to God.
The Watchtower 2006 9/1 pp. 27-28 par. 4 “Let Your Petitions Be Made Known to God”
Some may ask, ‘Does not Jehovah already know all our needs?’ Yes, he does. (Matthew 6:8,*32) Why, then, does he still want us to approach him with our petitions? Consider this example: A store owner may offer a gift to some of his customers. However, to receive this gift, the customers must come to the owner and claim it. Those unwilling to make the effort to do so would show that they do not really appreciate the offer. Similarly, neglecting to make our petitions known in prayer would show a lack of appreciation for what Jehovah provides. Jesus said: “Ask and you will receive.” (John 16:24) In this way, we demonstrate our reliance on God.
5. John 17:3 This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ.
If we get to know the truth about God and his son Jesus and make an effort to live our lives as God wishes then our future is full of hope. Hope keeps us going - but not blind hope, true hope based on Bible teachings not human doctrines. (Hebrews11:1 talks about faith but is related to hope).
Also the counsel from the Bible helps us to be better people (we will be better to be around), to live morally (avoiding dishonest acts therefore avoiding the consequences of eg tax evasion etc OR STD's) and contribute to a better society (no theft, affairs, war, killing, greed etc). If we truly believe in God then we have peace of mind that all these evil events that are going on around the world will end - it definitely helps me to get up in the morning. (Revelation 21:4)
