Miscellaneous - Religion   

Basis of faith

CHENNAI: Faith in God is difficult to attain since we are caught in a trap that deludes us from truth. It is easier to have faith in worldly matters rather than in God, and incidentally there are only a few realised souls who speak of God and can initiate us in the spiritual path. As if to confirm Hitler’s theory that repeated utterances of untruth can become beliefs, we tend to get drawn to the majority of people who do not speak of God.

To have inherent faith in God is a valuable asset and those who do not possess this fortune are likely to feel much insecurity, pointed out Swami Gautamananda in a lecture. Ironically we we are ready to invest our hard earned money in financial companies based on the recommendations of people; yet we find it difficult to pray to God or believe in His capacity to protect us, provide peace happiness and lasting joy. Many hesitate to tread the spiritual path though God assures us that he will guide us in the right path, and is always ready to take us in His fold if only we seek His grace.

Faith is a value of life and values are not taught but caught. Spiritual life is based on faith, love, moral values, worship and prayer. These are the important signposts that one should watch out for more than career prospects, making a living, etc. The Jnana, that the Lord alone is our ally when the mind is restless and without peace, should take root in our consciousness. The analogy of ants nibbling away at a huge sugar hill illustrates the attempt of mankind to seek to know the Infinite Truth. Sri Ramakrishna has shown by example how to savour the experience of God by surrendering ourselves to His grace and compassion. This preceptor chose to transmit his spiritual force to Narendra (Swami Vivekananda) so that he could continue to spread spiritual awareness.

The inherent power of repeated chanting of God’s name is emphasised for this practice effects an inner change in one who chants and brings about God awareness in slow stages. This preceptor cleared the doubts and questions of many in the spiritual path.

As long as there is desire for worldly objects, the effort to realise God becomes a sheer waste. We have to long for God with single minded aim.

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