By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steve_Wickham]Steve Wickham
At the Pharisees' criticism for his spending time with sinners, Jesus says:
Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.
~Matthew 9:13 (NRSV).
Divine mercy and sin are co-mingled aspects of the redemptive life. The only condition pending for full salvation is the preparedness of remorse for sins against God; those are to be placed on the altar of our hearts in repentance.
"Remorse" is the operative word: an authentic state of sorrow for our sinful nature. But we have freedom in knowing mercy is plentiful, replete in Jesus' hanging on the cross of Golgotha for us.
TWO INCREDIBLE AND DICHOTOMOUS FACTS
This is what I call the Hourglass Paradox.
When we play Pictionary, using the tiny plastic hourglass, we quickly find the bottom-half full of sand and the top portion empty when time is up.
As our time dries up, the bottom-half is symbolically full with sand - representing both our transgressions and the forgiveness of God for the repentance we enacted right up until the final day. The top portion might represent the unrepentant sinner; not a transgression visible to their eye or worthy of repenting of, nor the forgiveness of God.
While salvation is conditional upon us understanding, continually, that we are sinners, we are the only ones granted escape from a Christless eternity, here and to come.
THE COURTROOM ANALOGY
The image before us is clear. We have been caught for and stand accused of a major crime: sins against God.
As wanton and fully charged prisoners, we enter court, go to the dock, plead guilty, accepting the full case against us. Without plea, we expect to be sentenced to the harshest of penalties - and understand this: no defence is entered, because we fully know we're rotten through. And we sit minutes later, the sentence handed down, staring in disbelief, utterly back-washed in joyous revulsion because we learned we have being acquitted at the legacy of an innocent man who's been executed for our crimes.
How can we comprehend the mercy of God?
Because of the Hourglass Paradox - the weight of our sin, yet the fullness of grace - we can contemplate the redemptive reality and our minds are never emptied, whilst our hearts are forever full in thankfulness and resultant praise.
Walking out of that courtroom scene: how can it be that Jesus' love sets me free?
JESUS CAME FOR YOU AND I - THE WONDER IN THAT THOUGHT
Jesus says to us, each single one, through the broad expanse of history: only imperfect people need apply. If you know the truth, abide in it. God never expects righteousness, but loves observing people achieve it from their mindful hearts. Grace covers the rest. We needn't worry.
We must wear our sinfulness as a true mark of our ongoing need of salvation, in approaching the Mercy Seat of Christ.
SELECTED THOUGHT:
Be a sinner, and let your sins be strong; but let your trust in Christ be stronger, and rejoice in Christ who is the victor over sin, death, and the world.
~Martin Luther.
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Jesus-and-the-Hourglass-Paradox&id=6672890] Jesus and the Hourglass Paradox
Friday, February 17, 2012
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
One of Seven Billion: Does Your Life Really Matter?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=John_H_Harbison]John H Harbison
Though much less than the present U.S. debt of trillions of dollars, seven billion is still a large number that is hard to get my head around. You have probably read or heard that this past week the population of the world topped the 7 billion mark. As only one of this huge horde, does any individual life really have significance?
All seven billion people hold a number of things in common as part of the human family. All are created in the image of God. This means that every person of the seven billion reflects in himself or herself attributes of God such as reason, creativity and love. Theologians call these and other qualities God's communicable attributes--qualities of people which correspond to qualities in God (there are also incommunicable attributes--qualities which are true of God alone such as being eternal and self-existent). Though marred by sin, this image remains present in people and gives inherent value to every person, as well as enabling each one to reflect the character of God [See Genesis 1:26-27].
All are also recipients of God's general revelation. God's truth about himself in the creation is evident to everyone though some suppress that truth and reject the Lord of creation [See Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:18-23].
Finally, all experience the blessings of God's common grace. In Matthew 5:45 Jesus says, Your Father causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and unrighteous. All people receive these gracious gifts from the hand of God.
However, beyond those things held in common by all human persons lie those things which begin to separate you from all other people. It is a combination of things which begin to narrow the field of people of whom these things are true until we arrive at you.
First is your temperament. Though many other people have the same temperament as you, this is not true of everyone. Your temperament identifies tendencies about your personality which determine how you will tend to be or act in various situations. This separates you from most other people.
Second there are your particular strengths and weaknesses. The collection of things you do very well and of things you do not do as well narrows further the number of people who are like you. The weaving together of your temperament with your strengths and weaknesses results in things which are unique to you. However, there are other areas which define these unique things even more.
Third there are your passions--those things about which you care deeply and to which you gladly give your time and energy. I remember a situation where an older woman in a church upbraided her pastors (of which I was one) in front of the rest of the congregation for their lack of emphasis on and commitment to missions. I do not believe she was being intentionally obnoxious; she was expressing her passion for missions. While one might question her tact, her passion was unquestionable. You can probably identify passions in your life. These add to your uniqueness.
Finally there are your spiritual gift or gifts. Every Christian has at least one spiritual gift--a grace-initiated, Spirit-empowered attribute or ability--that enables you to effectively be involved in Christ's kingdom work in this world. Your gifts may be speaking gifts or serving gifts but each enables you to fulfill your kingdom assignment and so bring glory to Jesus [I Corinthians 12].
Your temperament, strengths and weaknesses, passion and spiritual gifts work together to make you one-of-a-kind, a unique human person in God's world.
Though all this is true, there are other, deeper things that point to the fact that you are a unique individual. Consider these things:
Jesus knows you personally and calls you by name (John 10:4, 27)
He has planned a future and a hope for you (Jeremiah 29:11)
He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
This is the one thing above all else that makes your life matter in the midst of seven billion people--the Lord knows who you are. His knowledge and love of you as an individual person and His adopted child should bring you encouragement and joy. Your life matters!
You can read more articles by Dr. John Harbison on his blog at http://thegloryofthegrind.wordpress.com or follow him on Twitter at John_Harbison.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?One-of-Seven-Billion:-Does-Your-Life-Really-Matter?&id=6673308] One of Seven Billion: Does Your Life Really Matter?
Though much less than the present U.S. debt of trillions of dollars, seven billion is still a large number that is hard to get my head around. You have probably read or heard that this past week the population of the world topped the 7 billion mark. As only one of this huge horde, does any individual life really have significance?
All seven billion people hold a number of things in common as part of the human family. All are created in the image of God. This means that every person of the seven billion reflects in himself or herself attributes of God such as reason, creativity and love. Theologians call these and other qualities God's communicable attributes--qualities of people which correspond to qualities in God (there are also incommunicable attributes--qualities which are true of God alone such as being eternal and self-existent). Though marred by sin, this image remains present in people and gives inherent value to every person, as well as enabling each one to reflect the character of God [See Genesis 1:26-27].
All are also recipients of God's general revelation. God's truth about himself in the creation is evident to everyone though some suppress that truth and reject the Lord of creation [See Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:18-23].
Finally, all experience the blessings of God's common grace. In Matthew 5:45 Jesus says, Your Father causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and unrighteous. All people receive these gracious gifts from the hand of God.
However, beyond those things held in common by all human persons lie those things which begin to separate you from all other people. It is a combination of things which begin to narrow the field of people of whom these things are true until we arrive at you.
First is your temperament. Though many other people have the same temperament as you, this is not true of everyone. Your temperament identifies tendencies about your personality which determine how you will tend to be or act in various situations. This separates you from most other people.
Second there are your particular strengths and weaknesses. The collection of things you do very well and of things you do not do as well narrows further the number of people who are like you. The weaving together of your temperament with your strengths and weaknesses results in things which are unique to you. However, there are other areas which define these unique things even more.
Third there are your passions--those things about which you care deeply and to which you gladly give your time and energy. I remember a situation where an older woman in a church upbraided her pastors (of which I was one) in front of the rest of the congregation for their lack of emphasis on and commitment to missions. I do not believe she was being intentionally obnoxious; she was expressing her passion for missions. While one might question her tact, her passion was unquestionable. You can probably identify passions in your life. These add to your uniqueness.
Finally there are your spiritual gift or gifts. Every Christian has at least one spiritual gift--a grace-initiated, Spirit-empowered attribute or ability--that enables you to effectively be involved in Christ's kingdom work in this world. Your gifts may be speaking gifts or serving gifts but each enables you to fulfill your kingdom assignment and so bring glory to Jesus [I Corinthians 12].
Your temperament, strengths and weaknesses, passion and spiritual gifts work together to make you one-of-a-kind, a unique human person in God's world.
Though all this is true, there are other, deeper things that point to the fact that you are a unique individual. Consider these things:
Jesus knows you personally and calls you by name (John 10:4, 27)
He has planned a future and a hope for you (Jeremiah 29:11)
He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
This is the one thing above all else that makes your life matter in the midst of seven billion people--the Lord knows who you are. His knowledge and love of you as an individual person and His adopted child should bring you encouragement and joy. Your life matters!
You can read more articles by Dr. John Harbison on his blog at http://thegloryofthegrind.wordpress.com or follow him on Twitter at John_Harbison.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?One-of-Seven-Billion:-Does-Your-Life-Really-Matter?&id=6673308] One of Seven Billion: Does Your Life Really Matter?
Monday, February 13, 2012
Let's Fully Express Ourselves
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=William_T_Trotter]William T Trotter
In writing this article I'm expressing myself. Then if I get up for a break to go and get a cup of tea, I'm expressing myself the whole time from getting up, walking to the kitchen, filling the kettle with water and starting it, getting a tea bag and putting it into the teapot, taking a mug from the cupboard, pouring the boiling water into the teapot, waiting for the tea to steep, pouring the tea into my mug and then adding milk I've taken from the refrigerator and then walking back to my computer with the tea. While doing all of this I've done nothing other than express myself and even my brain has been operating by thinking, but there again that's myself expressing through my thoughts.
Even if we are driving, working at our job whether it's a government desk job or working as a labourer, an engineer, an architect or a doctor, all we do all day long is express ourselves and when we are asleep, we are still expressing as we breath, dream, move around and perhaps snore.
However, there is a difference in how you express yourself in doing things in daily life versus how I do them, or how my wife does them. For example, in getting a cup of tea as I mentioned above, there may be some very subtle differences such as how long you let the tea steep in the pot and do you heat up the pot by washing it out with some of the boiling water before putting the tea bag into it. Thus your tea may taste slightly different than mine.
Nevertheless, the main difference in your tea and mine will be the amount of 'Makoto' we each put into making it. Makoto is a Japanese word, but in PL we capitalise it because we give it a much stronger special meaning. That meaning is to do things with your 'full heartfelt sincerity'. When you do things with your heartfelt sincerity people can notice the difference. It's because you are also putting your mind into it, which is more than just concentrating on doing your effort. It's almost like putting the energy of who you are into it; it's putting your soul into it.
None of us were born exactly the same. Each of us have our own unique individuality that we were given at birth. This is the most precious gift we have ever been given, and we received it with the expectation that we express it fully throughout our lives. Thus, we should always be expressing ourselves with Makoto. When we do this our true unique individuality will shine through and we will experience true human joy.
In talking about expressing our Makoto, I've used the rather mundane example of making tea. However let's take something more complicated than just making tea, something like writing, painting a picture, making furniture, singing a song or even acting, then we start to see huge differences between the results of how you did any of these things versus how I or anyone else did them, especially if they have been given a natural aptitude to be able to do them and have seriously practised doing them.
Let's suppose we each had the same aptitude for doing something like singing, then what will separate us in the results will be our Makoto. You can clearly distinguish the difference when one person has done their Makoto effort and another person has not, even if they have the same aptitude. The person who has done their Makoto effort will experience more joy and the results will be quite clear. Furthermore, the expression of who they are as an individual (their uniqueness) will clearly stand out.
We can certainly see examples of this in singers as diverse in styles as John Lennon, Elvis Presley, Susan Boyle, Luciano Pavarotti, Eric Clapton and many hundreds of others. Again in writing, there is such diversity with even a few well known authors such as Robert Lewis Stephenson, Charles Dickens, Emily Bronte, Bryce Courtenay and countless others. However the important point to remember is that the major difference between all the singers and all the writers is their unique individuality which stands out for all to see and recognise as theirs.
By hearing a singer and reading a book of a well-known author we all know and recognise the distinct personal differences between each of them. This is true whether it's singers, writers, sculptors, painters, remarkable politicians, architects, surgeons, home builders, or whatever they happen to be, it's their individuality that stands out. Also, if they are well known, they have obviously put their Makoto into their expressions.
However, our individuality is clear in whatever we are doing if we do it with our Makoto effort. All these singers and writers I've listed and any other well known people you wish to add were all normal people who expressed themselves with Makoto. As a result their individuality is there for all to see.
Nevertheless, we all express our individuality in some way, but the uniqueness of who we are becomes clearer and more outstanding the more we put our Makoto into it. So even if it's making a meal for our family, raising our children, working at a store or some other business, if we do our Makoto effort our individuality will be reflected in it and we will feel the true joy of having done our best.
One of the meanings of the first PL Precept, 'Life Is Art,' is that we create art in our lives when we express ourselves by doing our Makoto effort. Thus 'art' can be created by those who do their full sincere heartfelt effort in all they do, no matter how elegant or mundane and their unique individuality will be reflected in what they've done.
Bill Trotter
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lets-Fully-Express-Ourselves&id=6670032] Let's Fully Express Ourselves
In writing this article I'm expressing myself. Then if I get up for a break to go and get a cup of tea, I'm expressing myself the whole time from getting up, walking to the kitchen, filling the kettle with water and starting it, getting a tea bag and putting it into the teapot, taking a mug from the cupboard, pouring the boiling water into the teapot, waiting for the tea to steep, pouring the tea into my mug and then adding milk I've taken from the refrigerator and then walking back to my computer with the tea. While doing all of this I've done nothing other than express myself and even my brain has been operating by thinking, but there again that's myself expressing through my thoughts.
Even if we are driving, working at our job whether it's a government desk job or working as a labourer, an engineer, an architect or a doctor, all we do all day long is express ourselves and when we are asleep, we are still expressing as we breath, dream, move around and perhaps snore.
However, there is a difference in how you express yourself in doing things in daily life versus how I do them, or how my wife does them. For example, in getting a cup of tea as I mentioned above, there may be some very subtle differences such as how long you let the tea steep in the pot and do you heat up the pot by washing it out with some of the boiling water before putting the tea bag into it. Thus your tea may taste slightly different than mine.
Nevertheless, the main difference in your tea and mine will be the amount of 'Makoto' we each put into making it. Makoto is a Japanese word, but in PL we capitalise it because we give it a much stronger special meaning. That meaning is to do things with your 'full heartfelt sincerity'. When you do things with your heartfelt sincerity people can notice the difference. It's because you are also putting your mind into it, which is more than just concentrating on doing your effort. It's almost like putting the energy of who you are into it; it's putting your soul into it.
None of us were born exactly the same. Each of us have our own unique individuality that we were given at birth. This is the most precious gift we have ever been given, and we received it with the expectation that we express it fully throughout our lives. Thus, we should always be expressing ourselves with Makoto. When we do this our true unique individuality will shine through and we will experience true human joy.
In talking about expressing our Makoto, I've used the rather mundane example of making tea. However let's take something more complicated than just making tea, something like writing, painting a picture, making furniture, singing a song or even acting, then we start to see huge differences between the results of how you did any of these things versus how I or anyone else did them, especially if they have been given a natural aptitude to be able to do them and have seriously practised doing them.
Let's suppose we each had the same aptitude for doing something like singing, then what will separate us in the results will be our Makoto. You can clearly distinguish the difference when one person has done their Makoto effort and another person has not, even if they have the same aptitude. The person who has done their Makoto effort will experience more joy and the results will be quite clear. Furthermore, the expression of who they are as an individual (their uniqueness) will clearly stand out.
We can certainly see examples of this in singers as diverse in styles as John Lennon, Elvis Presley, Susan Boyle, Luciano Pavarotti, Eric Clapton and many hundreds of others. Again in writing, there is such diversity with even a few well known authors such as Robert Lewis Stephenson, Charles Dickens, Emily Bronte, Bryce Courtenay and countless others. However the important point to remember is that the major difference between all the singers and all the writers is their unique individuality which stands out for all to see and recognise as theirs.
By hearing a singer and reading a book of a well-known author we all know and recognise the distinct personal differences between each of them. This is true whether it's singers, writers, sculptors, painters, remarkable politicians, architects, surgeons, home builders, or whatever they happen to be, it's their individuality that stands out. Also, if they are well known, they have obviously put their Makoto into their expressions.
However, our individuality is clear in whatever we are doing if we do it with our Makoto effort. All these singers and writers I've listed and any other well known people you wish to add were all normal people who expressed themselves with Makoto. As a result their individuality is there for all to see.
Nevertheless, we all express our individuality in some way, but the uniqueness of who we are becomes clearer and more outstanding the more we put our Makoto into it. So even if it's making a meal for our family, raising our children, working at a store or some other business, if we do our Makoto effort our individuality will be reflected in it and we will feel the true joy of having done our best.
One of the meanings of the first PL Precept, 'Life Is Art,' is that we create art in our lives when we express ourselves by doing our Makoto effort. Thus 'art' can be created by those who do their full sincere heartfelt effort in all they do, no matter how elegant or mundane and their unique individuality will be reflected in what they've done.
Bill Trotter
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lets-Fully-Express-Ourselves&id=6670032] Let's Fully Express Ourselves
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Psalm 127 - Children Are A Heritage of the LORD
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steve_Wickham]Steve Wickham
Unless the LORD builds the house,
those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the LORD guards the city,
the guard keeps watch in vain.
~Psalm 127:1-2 (NRSV).
Finding our way to the middle of the Songs of Ascent, this one goes to the heart of the truth surrounding investment - time, effort, resources etc.
Reading this psalm there is a strong reminiscence of Psalm 1.
There are five verses; two of which (above) speak to the negative as a warning - effort without God's anointing goes unrewarded, ultimately - whilst three more speak of the blessings enfolded to the family man and woman trusting in the basics-of-abundance of the LORD.
The only difference is Psalm 1 speaks about blessing first; then concludes in cursing of the sinner who hasn't heeded the warnings of life. The theme, however, is strikingly similar:
Blessings there will be for the faithful; curses will be the lot of the unfaithful.
WORK WISELY NOT WASTEFULLY
The two verses profiled atop speak such a valuable Proverbs-like truth.
There are infinite ways to make a quick buck, or even swindle our way through life, but that way is destined to failure.
Not only that; even if we set out on a path to serve God by our works, those works won't be blessed if our motive was wrong in the beginning - if we, by our works, had an agenda for ourselves.
As is the recurrent theme through the Old Book, the LORD seeks our love, not our loveless but hard-worked sacrifice.
Working wisely and not wastefully, therefore, is about understanding God's purposes for us, knowing the ways we are to achieve these purposes, obeying the ALMIGHTY in that, and always nurturing a heart to follow the LORD; every good path.
One underestimated way of working wisely is through the cherishing and cultivation of our families.
INVEST IN FAMILY
Verses 3-5 offer immense encouragement to devoted family men and family women; fathers and mothers. The enemy of God, instead, sows a seed in our minds that family isn't enough.
Ambition gets in the way, due to envy, pride, or greed; or comfort via motives of sloth. For many, the blessings of family are not enough or too much work.
But as we learned in the first two verses, the LORD can strip to null all the outputs of years - even decades - of our toil. This is accorded to the generalisation that we haven't worked for the LORD'S purposes. (Of course, some very godly people have worked hard in the Kingdom and have still lost all; as an exception, this psalm doesn't apply there.)
The ancient Near-East culture, which is the founding context of this psalm, valued at the pinnacle, family. The family name in the community was paramount, as was the community itself. This was no individualistic culture that we find in our world, in most westernised countries, today.
For an ancient Near-East person to read the words of this section was a strong encouragement and affirmation to build and blossom the family. A great blessing it was to have children in abundance and to earn peace for a good night's rest.
Humility is the message of this psalm.
If we walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8) we will be blessed with the finest of blessings - generally, in the form of family. There may be no finer blessing, in this world, than the enrichment of family. Simple blessings are the best of blessings.
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Psalm-127---Children-Are-A-Heritage-of-the-LORD&id=6673385] Psalm 127 - Children Are A Heritage of the LORD
Unless the LORD builds the house,
those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the LORD guards the city,
the guard keeps watch in vain.
~Psalm 127:1-2 (NRSV).
Finding our way to the middle of the Songs of Ascent, this one goes to the heart of the truth surrounding investment - time, effort, resources etc.
Reading this psalm there is a strong reminiscence of Psalm 1.
There are five verses; two of which (above) speak to the negative as a warning - effort without God's anointing goes unrewarded, ultimately - whilst three more speak of the blessings enfolded to the family man and woman trusting in the basics-of-abundance of the LORD.
The only difference is Psalm 1 speaks about blessing first; then concludes in cursing of the sinner who hasn't heeded the warnings of life. The theme, however, is strikingly similar:
Blessings there will be for the faithful; curses will be the lot of the unfaithful.
WORK WISELY NOT WASTEFULLY
The two verses profiled atop speak such a valuable Proverbs-like truth.
There are infinite ways to make a quick buck, or even swindle our way through life, but that way is destined to failure.
Not only that; even if we set out on a path to serve God by our works, those works won't be blessed if our motive was wrong in the beginning - if we, by our works, had an agenda for ourselves.
As is the recurrent theme through the Old Book, the LORD seeks our love, not our loveless but hard-worked sacrifice.
Working wisely and not wastefully, therefore, is about understanding God's purposes for us, knowing the ways we are to achieve these purposes, obeying the ALMIGHTY in that, and always nurturing a heart to follow the LORD; every good path.
One underestimated way of working wisely is through the cherishing and cultivation of our families.
INVEST IN FAMILY
Verses 3-5 offer immense encouragement to devoted family men and family women; fathers and mothers. The enemy of God, instead, sows a seed in our minds that family isn't enough.
Ambition gets in the way, due to envy, pride, or greed; or comfort via motives of sloth. For many, the blessings of family are not enough or too much work.
But as we learned in the first two verses, the LORD can strip to null all the outputs of years - even decades - of our toil. This is accorded to the generalisation that we haven't worked for the LORD'S purposes. (Of course, some very godly people have worked hard in the Kingdom and have still lost all; as an exception, this psalm doesn't apply there.)
The ancient Near-East culture, which is the founding context of this psalm, valued at the pinnacle, family. The family name in the community was paramount, as was the community itself. This was no individualistic culture that we find in our world, in most westernised countries, today.
For an ancient Near-East person to read the words of this section was a strong encouragement and affirmation to build and blossom the family. A great blessing it was to have children in abundance and to earn peace for a good night's rest.
Humility is the message of this psalm.
If we walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8) we will be blessed with the finest of blessings - generally, in the form of family. There may be no finer blessing, in this world, than the enrichment of family. Simple blessings are the best of blessings.
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Psalm-127---Children-Are-A-Heritage-of-the-LORD&id=6673385] Psalm 127 - Children Are A Heritage of the LORD
Thursday, February 9, 2012
How to Succeed by Developing Intuition
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jill_Magso]Jill Magso
By developing intuition you can give yourself an inspiring upper hand in your life. But the development of intuition in your life is not a difficult task. If you have some time to meditate by meditation you can develop intuition. By meditation you can learn to listen to your inner sense of feeling or guidance. Whenever some weird feeling comes to your mind you must give some attention to it and as soon as you start giving attention you will find that your intuition is speaking to you more loudly.
You have noticed sometimes that when you are traveling a new place you want to listen to your inner voice so that you can get some important information which will be beneficial for you at that time. Some people believe that intuition is a talent or a skill that is posed by some people. But it is a natural skill with which everyone is born and some people have more intuitive feeling where as some has less. But as you grow old the chance to develop intuition decreases and this is because of the reason that the societies in which you live, your cultural believes as well as values force you to ignore your natural inner capabilities.
The intuition sometimes helps you to make some wise decision in your life. So if you want to tap your intuition then you can take the help of meditation. Because meditation can help you in rectifying your inner self i.e. it help you in knowing or understanding who you are. But most of the time it is found that you neglect your inner voice who guides you to deal a situation. You should never neglect your inner voice as you inner voice guides you in a genuine manner about how to tackle a situation. Intuition always guides you to take a correct path and it can even warn you of danger and it helps you to get connected with your creativity. In a study it has been proved that all of the successful people go with their intuitive feeling rather than going with other word.
When you develop intuition then it gives you the ability to look at others so that you can know about what they know. Your intuition allows you to look at your inner self so that you can find the answers of some of your unsolved queries and the intuition also gives you some strength to act boldly on something based on the guidance of your inner self. To be intuitive you have to first trust yourself. If you pay deep attention on your inner guidance then it will help you to think about anything clearly which make you to take some critical decision easily.
If you can develop intuition then it can lead you towards the right path in your life. The best way to develop intuition in you is that you should always try to think positive as this will attract positive energy towards you and thus you will be able to recognize the feelings around you. When you are trying to take decision about a situation you should always be very attentive to your first impression as this is your inner voice guidance. [http://www.silvaintuitionsystem.com/articles/intuition/developing-intuition]developing intuition
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Succeed-by-Developing-Intuition&id=6672437] How to Succeed by Developing Intuition
By developing intuition you can give yourself an inspiring upper hand in your life. But the development of intuition in your life is not a difficult task. If you have some time to meditate by meditation you can develop intuition. By meditation you can learn to listen to your inner sense of feeling or guidance. Whenever some weird feeling comes to your mind you must give some attention to it and as soon as you start giving attention you will find that your intuition is speaking to you more loudly.
You have noticed sometimes that when you are traveling a new place you want to listen to your inner voice so that you can get some important information which will be beneficial for you at that time. Some people believe that intuition is a talent or a skill that is posed by some people. But it is a natural skill with which everyone is born and some people have more intuitive feeling where as some has less. But as you grow old the chance to develop intuition decreases and this is because of the reason that the societies in which you live, your cultural believes as well as values force you to ignore your natural inner capabilities.
The intuition sometimes helps you to make some wise decision in your life. So if you want to tap your intuition then you can take the help of meditation. Because meditation can help you in rectifying your inner self i.e. it help you in knowing or understanding who you are. But most of the time it is found that you neglect your inner voice who guides you to deal a situation. You should never neglect your inner voice as you inner voice guides you in a genuine manner about how to tackle a situation. Intuition always guides you to take a correct path and it can even warn you of danger and it helps you to get connected with your creativity. In a study it has been proved that all of the successful people go with their intuitive feeling rather than going with other word.
When you develop intuition then it gives you the ability to look at others so that you can know about what they know. Your intuition allows you to look at your inner self so that you can find the answers of some of your unsolved queries and the intuition also gives you some strength to act boldly on something based on the guidance of your inner self. To be intuitive you have to first trust yourself. If you pay deep attention on your inner guidance then it will help you to think about anything clearly which make you to take some critical decision easily.
If you can develop intuition then it can lead you towards the right path in your life. The best way to develop intuition in you is that you should always try to think positive as this will attract positive energy towards you and thus you will be able to recognize the feelings around you. When you are trying to take decision about a situation you should always be very attentive to your first impression as this is your inner voice guidance. [http://www.silvaintuitionsystem.com/articles/intuition/developing-intuition]developing intuition
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Succeed-by-Developing-Intuition&id=6672437] How to Succeed by Developing Intuition
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Hate Is Hell, Love Is Heaven
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joshua_Clayton]Joshua Clayton
Love is a force, and hate is an absence of that force. Hate is not a force at all, but just a default to fear. Understand, ultimately love creates what is desired in every way. From productive inventions to good thoughts and actions, love of life and existence is power. Love is the ultimate strength. Love enough to create good things is always a powerful force. Each little loving thought and action I do understand is a bit of heaven in life and existence. When multiplied, love of any sort is pure heaven.
Love is creative in the ultimate sense, not just as a feeling, but as a reality of life and existence. From spending minutes feeling good in the morning to creating a great work of art for months or years, or taking an action filled with love and benefit, love is not just a feeling, it is a creative power. Sure, this is a simple article about a seemingly simple emotion. But, when we consider just how much love and gratitude have come up with in life and existence in the sense of value and creativity, we are blessed and gifted with the most complex, powerful, compelling and wonderful energy in existence which is love.
So, let us get hate out of our minds, despite it seeming like work to do so, hate is just plain laziness, not an energy or a force really. Do you notice how war is the last result when other, better ideas "do not work"? Do you notice a certain lazy energy in being destructive or not creative? Well, when you understand that you have the road to understanding the force of love, what it does and why it does it. So, my reality is that love takes strength, hate defaults to weakness. It is not only my experience, yes, but my genuine reality. Love comes up with ideas, hate defaults to a fight or conflict. That is also a reality. Think about this concept first before you act on this concept. Ideas are created through love and patient understanding, not by hate and rush. In fact, the only thing that circumvents the law of cause and effect mostly is patience, grace and perseverance or doing what needs to be done without fear or judgement, but just understanding. Hate is just to quit and not understand a situation fully anyhow when really looked at for what it is. Some of the best values were not arrived at by some because of hate and quitting. When you understand that statement, you understand what I mean by hate is always lazy and love is always productive. Give love and you will get it back.
My name is Joshua Clayton, I am a freelance writer based in Inglewood, California. I also write under a few pen-names and aliases, but Joshua Clayton is my real name, and I write by that for the most part now. I am a philosophical writer and objective thinker and honest action taker.
I also work at a senior center in Gardena, California as my day job, among other things, but primarily I am a writer.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Hate-Is-Hell,-Love-Is-Heaven&id=6672960] Hate Is Hell, Love Is Heaven
Love is a force, and hate is an absence of that force. Hate is not a force at all, but just a default to fear. Understand, ultimately love creates what is desired in every way. From productive inventions to good thoughts and actions, love of life and existence is power. Love is the ultimate strength. Love enough to create good things is always a powerful force. Each little loving thought and action I do understand is a bit of heaven in life and existence. When multiplied, love of any sort is pure heaven.
Love is creative in the ultimate sense, not just as a feeling, but as a reality of life and existence. From spending minutes feeling good in the morning to creating a great work of art for months or years, or taking an action filled with love and benefit, love is not just a feeling, it is a creative power. Sure, this is a simple article about a seemingly simple emotion. But, when we consider just how much love and gratitude have come up with in life and existence in the sense of value and creativity, we are blessed and gifted with the most complex, powerful, compelling and wonderful energy in existence which is love.
So, let us get hate out of our minds, despite it seeming like work to do so, hate is just plain laziness, not an energy or a force really. Do you notice how war is the last result when other, better ideas "do not work"? Do you notice a certain lazy energy in being destructive or not creative? Well, when you understand that you have the road to understanding the force of love, what it does and why it does it. So, my reality is that love takes strength, hate defaults to weakness. It is not only my experience, yes, but my genuine reality. Love comes up with ideas, hate defaults to a fight or conflict. That is also a reality. Think about this concept first before you act on this concept. Ideas are created through love and patient understanding, not by hate and rush. In fact, the only thing that circumvents the law of cause and effect mostly is patience, grace and perseverance or doing what needs to be done without fear or judgement, but just understanding. Hate is just to quit and not understand a situation fully anyhow when really looked at for what it is. Some of the best values were not arrived at by some because of hate and quitting. When you understand that statement, you understand what I mean by hate is always lazy and love is always productive. Give love and you will get it back.
My name is Joshua Clayton, I am a freelance writer based in Inglewood, California. I also write under a few pen-names and aliases, but Joshua Clayton is my real name, and I write by that for the most part now. I am a philosophical writer and objective thinker and honest action taker.
I also work at a senior center in Gardena, California as my day job, among other things, but primarily I am a writer.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Hate-Is-Hell,-Love-Is-Heaven&id=6672960] Hate Is Hell, Love Is Heaven
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Are You 'In Time' For Spiritual Enquiry?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steve_Wickham]Steve Wickham
In Time (2011) is a motion picture dealing with the currency of time in a world where you earn time and spend it - run out of time and you're dead. Time is a concept hedged in morality; it is the ultimate thing speaking for life and death.
Those living their lives in the ghetto live with a day - or even hours - on their forearm clocks, whereas those living in New Greenwich (which is out of reach for those in the ghetto) have hundreds or, in some cases, thousands of years on their clocks.
Ghetto life necessitates the survival instinct because the risk of death is so imminent. Those in New Greenwich, though, may never die and therefore usually don't live.
The spiritual paradox in this: we can go through life busied by many things - work, pleasure, placating people, running from one thing to another - and never live.
OPEN OR CLOSED?
Real living is, of a sense, about spiritual enquiry.
When we are open to spiritual enquiry the gateway to life is also opened.
As we shun the spirit within each of us, little by little we die, despite our prospects, cash flow, friendships and allegiances, reputations and fame, or anything else. Indeed, the world gives us copious excuses to run from the ever enquiring spirit deep inside.
When we are open, however, abundance from spiritual enquiry is afforded. We are 'in time' with the right purpose.
WHAT IS SPIRITUAL ENQUIRY, AND HOW DO WE ACHIEVE IT?
Where do we start in describing this process of approaching the truth about ourselves, our world, and God, no less?
Spiritual enquiry may be the process of truthful reflection whereby we allow God to search us and reveal himself to us. This compels us to take note and to think and act differently.
Most times this doesn't happen without either a concerted effort or the will to surrender to God, beyond the busyness. We make time for it or we don't. When we don't make time for it, only we lose. We can know our Bibles back to front and still not be living 'in time'.
Being 'in time' is being alive in this world; not by the beating of our hearts so much as the vibrancy of our spiritual heartbeat. We merely exist or we truly live.
Living is conditional on our spirituality and spiritual enquiry is a way to bring us the life; because it aligns us to the truth. We become challenged and encouraged; not bored, distracted or bewildered.
Being 'in time' is a decision we make each moment - it's contingent on our spiritual enquiry. If we're not interested in such enquiry, God will not give us life. But if we are, God will not rest until we have life, and have it abundantly (John 10:10).
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-You-In-Time-For-Spiritual-Enquiry?&id=6673683] Are You 'In Time' For Spiritual Enquiry?
In Time (2011) is a motion picture dealing with the currency of time in a world where you earn time and spend it - run out of time and you're dead. Time is a concept hedged in morality; it is the ultimate thing speaking for life and death.
Those living their lives in the ghetto live with a day - or even hours - on their forearm clocks, whereas those living in New Greenwich (which is out of reach for those in the ghetto) have hundreds or, in some cases, thousands of years on their clocks.
Ghetto life necessitates the survival instinct because the risk of death is so imminent. Those in New Greenwich, though, may never die and therefore usually don't live.
The spiritual paradox in this: we can go through life busied by many things - work, pleasure, placating people, running from one thing to another - and never live.
OPEN OR CLOSED?
Real living is, of a sense, about spiritual enquiry.
When we are open to spiritual enquiry the gateway to life is also opened.
As we shun the spirit within each of us, little by little we die, despite our prospects, cash flow, friendships and allegiances, reputations and fame, or anything else. Indeed, the world gives us copious excuses to run from the ever enquiring spirit deep inside.
When we are open, however, abundance from spiritual enquiry is afforded. We are 'in time' with the right purpose.
WHAT IS SPIRITUAL ENQUIRY, AND HOW DO WE ACHIEVE IT?
Where do we start in describing this process of approaching the truth about ourselves, our world, and God, no less?
Spiritual enquiry may be the process of truthful reflection whereby we allow God to search us and reveal himself to us. This compels us to take note and to think and act differently.
Most times this doesn't happen without either a concerted effort or the will to surrender to God, beyond the busyness. We make time for it or we don't. When we don't make time for it, only we lose. We can know our Bibles back to front and still not be living 'in time'.
Being 'in time' is being alive in this world; not by the beating of our hearts so much as the vibrancy of our spiritual heartbeat. We merely exist or we truly live.
Living is conditional on our spirituality and spiritual enquiry is a way to bring us the life; because it aligns us to the truth. We become challenged and encouraged; not bored, distracted or bewildered.
Being 'in time' is a decision we make each moment - it's contingent on our spiritual enquiry. If we're not interested in such enquiry, God will not give us life. But if we are, God will not rest until we have life, and have it abundantly (John 10:10).
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-You-In-Time-For-Spiritual-Enquiry?&id=6673683] Are You 'In Time' For Spiritual Enquiry?
Friday, February 3, 2012
Christian Meditations
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ronald_G_Heron]Ronald G Heron
Christian guided meditations can help the day pass more easily and pleasurably, and your outlook will be improved, while strengthening your determination and faith. Via the Internet it is possible to get daily words of wisdom for living a Christian life even when the world sometimes doesn't seem like such a friendly place. Whether you are experiencing trouble on the job or facing financial problems it can help restore your balance, and let your faith guided life become happier on a daily basis, and find peace.
With Christian guided meditations, you can pray, relax or make positive affirmations. When you mediate on God, your problems will likely seem minor and you then enjoy the benefit of a higher level of awareness sharing your heavy burden. Whether you are reading your daily affirmations or listening to positive and uplifting pieces of faith related advice on a CD, it's easier to put your problems into perspective and see your true priorities in correct proportion and order. While enjoying a spiritual journey, there are positive and uplifting techniques to relax, pray and affirm.
On the Internet you can find CDs, MP3 versions and even free video clips of Christian guided meditations. When you relax and focus on God, your fears can be minimized and your faith can be strengthened. It certainly helps to clear the negative self talk that might be cluttering your mind because of negative circumstances, it can also be helpful to turn your day around through the use of uplifting spiritual food.
When searching for biblical verses that have a modern interpretation, there are many Christian books, but you can use your personal computer to listen to faith-based music or watch beautiful and relaxing scenery pictures that are awe-inspiring and set to biblical verses and your favorite hymns. Having a sensory experience for the eyes and ears is input into your very being, indeed your heart and soul.
It has been said that the best way to experience and get to know God is to be still and listen. The famous verse of scripture in the Bible telling us just that. With these relaxing tools, you can strengthen your faith and your resolve. If you are facing a crisis, you can reinforce your faith and skillfully overcome any obstacles that may be causing you stress and grief. As a form of communion with God, it has been said that meditating is a part of the prayer which also allows reflection.
When you reflect on the biblical meaning of your dilemma, you may learn to see your challenges as tests of your faith to be overcome. Most people enjoy some form of relaxation or meditation, in order to relieve daily stress and challenging situations. With positive and God focused meditating, your faith allows you to use reflection, study and practice, to interpret the meaning of your personal challenges, from a faith-based understanding.
When you want to relax and relieve the daily stress you may be faced with, prayer can take on many forms, but meditating on God's teachings can be a way to put things into perspective. With Christian guided meditations, you can get a daily dose of your faith and you can apply the principles to your challenges throughout the whole day.
About the author: Ronald Heron has for many years benefited from balanced living, with daily time for meditation.
Website: http://www.marshillbaptisttn.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Christian-Meditations&id=6672141] Christian Meditations
Christian guided meditations can help the day pass more easily and pleasurably, and your outlook will be improved, while strengthening your determination and faith. Via the Internet it is possible to get daily words of wisdom for living a Christian life even when the world sometimes doesn't seem like such a friendly place. Whether you are experiencing trouble on the job or facing financial problems it can help restore your balance, and let your faith guided life become happier on a daily basis, and find peace.
With Christian guided meditations, you can pray, relax or make positive affirmations. When you mediate on God, your problems will likely seem minor and you then enjoy the benefit of a higher level of awareness sharing your heavy burden. Whether you are reading your daily affirmations or listening to positive and uplifting pieces of faith related advice on a CD, it's easier to put your problems into perspective and see your true priorities in correct proportion and order. While enjoying a spiritual journey, there are positive and uplifting techniques to relax, pray and affirm.
On the Internet you can find CDs, MP3 versions and even free video clips of Christian guided meditations. When you relax and focus on God, your fears can be minimized and your faith can be strengthened. It certainly helps to clear the negative self talk that might be cluttering your mind because of negative circumstances, it can also be helpful to turn your day around through the use of uplifting spiritual food.
When searching for biblical verses that have a modern interpretation, there are many Christian books, but you can use your personal computer to listen to faith-based music or watch beautiful and relaxing scenery pictures that are awe-inspiring and set to biblical verses and your favorite hymns. Having a sensory experience for the eyes and ears is input into your very being, indeed your heart and soul.
It has been said that the best way to experience and get to know God is to be still and listen. The famous verse of scripture in the Bible telling us just that. With these relaxing tools, you can strengthen your faith and your resolve. If you are facing a crisis, you can reinforce your faith and skillfully overcome any obstacles that may be causing you stress and grief. As a form of communion with God, it has been said that meditating is a part of the prayer which also allows reflection.
When you reflect on the biblical meaning of your dilemma, you may learn to see your challenges as tests of your faith to be overcome. Most people enjoy some form of relaxation or meditation, in order to relieve daily stress and challenging situations. With positive and God focused meditating, your faith allows you to use reflection, study and practice, to interpret the meaning of your personal challenges, from a faith-based understanding.
When you want to relax and relieve the daily stress you may be faced with, prayer can take on many forms, but meditating on God's teachings can be a way to put things into perspective. With Christian guided meditations, you can get a daily dose of your faith and you can apply the principles to your challenges throughout the whole day.
About the author: Ronald Heron has for many years benefited from balanced living, with daily time for meditation.
Website: http://www.marshillbaptisttn.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Christian-Meditations&id=6672141] Christian Meditations
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Happiness Is Not Everything
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joseph_A_Clark]Joseph A Clark
There is a great deal of time and effort spent by many people today looking for happiness. This is a search that will take you down many roads. If happiness through the love of a companion is what you want there are a number of dating services and self help books to guide your path. If happiness through great wealth is what you're after, work hard and make wise decisions and this can be your reality. The list of things that can bring happiness goes on for miles. As mentioned in the first example it is not limited to worldly goods. The search for happiness can start with good intentions. The question is; is happiness of any kind what we really need
Happiness is defined as a state of well being and contentment: a pleasurable or satisfying experience. While this is a noble goal to have, for a Christian it falls short of what is promised to us. Happiness deals with feelings and momentary pleasure. When we seek after happiness we are losing focus on the big picture. We settle for the here and now.What looks good? What feels right? What will bring me a pleasurable or satisfying experience? What will make me happy? This type of thinking is especially dangerous for the Christian believer. As Christians we must have a long term view of our lives. Does this mean that God does not want us to be happy? Not at all! So how do we reconcile this? We must change our way of thinking.
To do this we need to return to our foundation. A strong foundation is required for a strong house that can withstand the trials of the storms of life. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians chapter 3 that our foundation is Christ. We need to determine how strong that foundation is. To do this we will turn to John Chapter 3. This is where Jesus is explaining being born again. He says that a person must be born again and likens this new birth to the natural birth. He makes the statement "That which is born of flesh is flesh and that which is born of spirit is spirit. This lays out the basic idea of being born again. Many people believe salvation is like some sort of club you can join and drop out of whenever it's convenient. Jesus clearly states it is a completely new being. This is the first step on our way to being "happy".
When you become a Christian there are a number of thing that happen to you. The Bible lays out a tried and true method to help determine if this transformation has happen to you. Many people think this method hinges on works. The more works and the better those works are, the better relationship you have. Jesus warns against this in Mathew chapter 7 when he tells a group of people, who had done many great works and even performed some gifts of the Spirit in the name of Jesus, depart from me you workers of iniquity I never knew you. If we can't rely on works or gifts to determine our salvation, then what can we look to? In the same chapter of Mathew, Jesus tells us that a tree is known by its fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. Many people have tried to complicate this process, but Jesus laid it out in a simple form. Basically, if you are a Christian, then you can't help but produce the fruits of a Christian. What are the fruits? This answer will lead us to true "happiness".
For this search we need to turn to Galatians chapter 5. Here Paul lays out the fruits of the Spirit. It is this same Spirit that enters you at salvation. While reading these scriptures you will come across a fruit that many say is the same as happiness. This fruit is Joy. While the differences between happiness and Joy may appear small, these differences can lead a person in a completely different path.
Joy is defined as the emotion invoked by well being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one DESIRES. The key word is desires. At this point there needs to be an explanation of the difference between desire and want. To want something is to have a "feeling" of need for that object. To desire is to long or HOPE for that object. Wanting is not wrong, but if all you have is a feeling of need then happiness or momentary pleasure is all you can aspect. When you are born again the Holy Spirit enters you and gives you Joy which produces hope from within.
While happiness in the short term is given to the rel=nofollow [http://josephclarkblog.com/]Christian, having the Joy that only God can give is much more beneficial. In this world happiness can and will come and go, but joy is solid and not affected by the changing circumstances. To have joy is to have hope, and in this world of ever changing events hope may be just what we need.
Please understand I am not a pessimist, I believe in looking at the glass half full. I just believe having joy for the one that fills the glass is more important than being happy when the glass is full and the hope from that joy may be the only thing that saves me when the glass is almost empty.
I am a Christian writer that has learned to put God first in everything with family coming in at a close second. God has given me a unique ability to see him in the things he has made (Romans 1:20). My goal is to share this information with as many people as I can. The name of my blog is Shinning God's Light because I believe that is the job of every Christian.
May God Bless You http://www.josephclarkblog.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Happiness-Is-Not-Everything&id=6673111] Happiness Is Not Everything
There is a great deal of time and effort spent by many people today looking for happiness. This is a search that will take you down many roads. If happiness through the love of a companion is what you want there are a number of dating services and self help books to guide your path. If happiness through great wealth is what you're after, work hard and make wise decisions and this can be your reality. The list of things that can bring happiness goes on for miles. As mentioned in the first example it is not limited to worldly goods. The search for happiness can start with good intentions. The question is; is happiness of any kind what we really need
Happiness is defined as a state of well being and contentment: a pleasurable or satisfying experience. While this is a noble goal to have, for a Christian it falls short of what is promised to us. Happiness deals with feelings and momentary pleasure. When we seek after happiness we are losing focus on the big picture. We settle for the here and now.What looks good? What feels right? What will bring me a pleasurable or satisfying experience? What will make me happy? This type of thinking is especially dangerous for the Christian believer. As Christians we must have a long term view of our lives. Does this mean that God does not want us to be happy? Not at all! So how do we reconcile this? We must change our way of thinking.
To do this we need to return to our foundation. A strong foundation is required for a strong house that can withstand the trials of the storms of life. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians chapter 3 that our foundation is Christ. We need to determine how strong that foundation is. To do this we will turn to John Chapter 3. This is where Jesus is explaining being born again. He says that a person must be born again and likens this new birth to the natural birth. He makes the statement "That which is born of flesh is flesh and that which is born of spirit is spirit. This lays out the basic idea of being born again. Many people believe salvation is like some sort of club you can join and drop out of whenever it's convenient. Jesus clearly states it is a completely new being. This is the first step on our way to being "happy".
When you become a Christian there are a number of thing that happen to you. The Bible lays out a tried and true method to help determine if this transformation has happen to you. Many people think this method hinges on works. The more works and the better those works are, the better relationship you have. Jesus warns against this in Mathew chapter 7 when he tells a group of people, who had done many great works and even performed some gifts of the Spirit in the name of Jesus, depart from me you workers of iniquity I never knew you. If we can't rely on works or gifts to determine our salvation, then what can we look to? In the same chapter of Mathew, Jesus tells us that a tree is known by its fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. Many people have tried to complicate this process, but Jesus laid it out in a simple form. Basically, if you are a Christian, then you can't help but produce the fruits of a Christian. What are the fruits? This answer will lead us to true "happiness".
For this search we need to turn to Galatians chapter 5. Here Paul lays out the fruits of the Spirit. It is this same Spirit that enters you at salvation. While reading these scriptures you will come across a fruit that many say is the same as happiness. This fruit is Joy. While the differences between happiness and Joy may appear small, these differences can lead a person in a completely different path.
Joy is defined as the emotion invoked by well being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one DESIRES. The key word is desires. At this point there needs to be an explanation of the difference between desire and want. To want something is to have a "feeling" of need for that object. To desire is to long or HOPE for that object. Wanting is not wrong, but if all you have is a feeling of need then happiness or momentary pleasure is all you can aspect. When you are born again the Holy Spirit enters you and gives you Joy which produces hope from within.
While happiness in the short term is given to the rel=nofollow [http://josephclarkblog.com/]Christian, having the Joy that only God can give is much more beneficial. In this world happiness can and will come and go, but joy is solid and not affected by the changing circumstances. To have joy is to have hope, and in this world of ever changing events hope may be just what we need.
Please understand I am not a pessimist, I believe in looking at the glass half full. I just believe having joy for the one that fills the glass is more important than being happy when the glass is full and the hope from that joy may be the only thing that saves me when the glass is almost empty.
I am a Christian writer that has learned to put God first in everything with family coming in at a close second. God has given me a unique ability to see him in the things he has made (Romans 1:20). My goal is to share this information with as many people as I can. The name of my blog is Shinning God's Light because I believe that is the job of every Christian.
May God Bless You http://www.josephclarkblog.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Happiness-Is-Not-Everything&id=6673111] Happiness Is Not Everything
Monday, January 30, 2012
The Inhabitation of the Holy Spirit
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steve_Wickham]Steve Wickham
Our being is the soil, Jesus is the seed, His Holy Spirit is the Fountain of living Waters, and 'the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance'.
~A. B. Simpson.
That, according to A. B. Simpson, founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, and a major influence in the spiritual life of A. W. Tozer, is Christ's theory of the deeper life.
What does this mean for us?
The Person of the Holy Spirit - at the event of salvation - takes his residence in us. This Person, the exact representation of the Godhead, "enters, possesses, and operates in the consecrated heart."
INHABITATION MEANS SIMPLICITY
Like pouring oil through a funnel directs the liquid exactly to the required spot, the Person of the Holy Spirit has his complete way with the obedient disciple. Like the directed oil, the Spirit directs power into the believer's heart and, in simplicity, that Christian knows what they need to do.
It's the spirit sense that's honed in discernment.
Like it would be in learning to listen to a person with a difficult dialect, we, with our spirit sense, listen in to our heart for what the Person of the Holy Spirit is saying.
As we imagine listening, we know very well this will take focus; hence, simplicity. We are to be quite single-minded in this!
The Holy Spirit is power this way, just like the highly respected mentor; just that, being the exact representation of the Godhead, the Person of the Holy Spirit utters only, and inspires, truth. Even truth we will not want to hear, but truth all the same.
THE PROCESS OF ENTRANCE, POSSESSION, AND OPERATION
As a person would walk into our lives, upon our invitation, sauntering through the door, we have invited the Spirit within at the reception of salvation.
We noticed something new; something entirely different occurred. It could be only the Advocate of Jesus.
Better than marriage - where two persons become one spiritually, but remain two separate persons - the entrance, possession, and operation of the Holy Spirit within us has made manifest the rebirth.
We have, for the first time, become one with ourselves - in God. There is no other way of becoming one with ourselves.
It was our Divine destiny. Suddenly the keys to unlocking the mind's power and heart's flourishing desire to love as God loves are made effectual. We love such 'a possession' - God, in effect, upon our invitation, has invaded our being. Love wins.
But still, our relationship with God is dependent on us. The Person of the Holy Spirit cannot bear wanton sin as we wallow in it. It desires to flush such filth into oblivion. And only with this Advocate can we do it. Truth wins.
The desire of the Person of the Holy Spirit is to sanctify us through and through; to simplify our focus; to remind us of the overcoming power resplendent in God; to purify us from the colour of scarlet and crimson to white as snow and wool (Isaiah 1:18).
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Further Reading: James Stuart Bell, From The Library of A. W. Tozer: Selections from Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey (Minneapolis, Minnesota: Bethany House Publishers, 2011), pp. 152-53.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Inhabitation-of-the-Holy-Spirit&id=6673870] The Inhabitation of the Holy Spirit
Our being is the soil, Jesus is the seed, His Holy Spirit is the Fountain of living Waters, and 'the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance'.
~A. B. Simpson.
That, according to A. B. Simpson, founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, and a major influence in the spiritual life of A. W. Tozer, is Christ's theory of the deeper life.
What does this mean for us?
The Person of the Holy Spirit - at the event of salvation - takes his residence in us. This Person, the exact representation of the Godhead, "enters, possesses, and operates in the consecrated heart."
INHABITATION MEANS SIMPLICITY
Like pouring oil through a funnel directs the liquid exactly to the required spot, the Person of the Holy Spirit has his complete way with the obedient disciple. Like the directed oil, the Spirit directs power into the believer's heart and, in simplicity, that Christian knows what they need to do.
It's the spirit sense that's honed in discernment.
Like it would be in learning to listen to a person with a difficult dialect, we, with our spirit sense, listen in to our heart for what the Person of the Holy Spirit is saying.
As we imagine listening, we know very well this will take focus; hence, simplicity. We are to be quite single-minded in this!
The Holy Spirit is power this way, just like the highly respected mentor; just that, being the exact representation of the Godhead, the Person of the Holy Spirit utters only, and inspires, truth. Even truth we will not want to hear, but truth all the same.
THE PROCESS OF ENTRANCE, POSSESSION, AND OPERATION
As a person would walk into our lives, upon our invitation, sauntering through the door, we have invited the Spirit within at the reception of salvation.
We noticed something new; something entirely different occurred. It could be only the Advocate of Jesus.
Better than marriage - where two persons become one spiritually, but remain two separate persons - the entrance, possession, and operation of the Holy Spirit within us has made manifest the rebirth.
We have, for the first time, become one with ourselves - in God. There is no other way of becoming one with ourselves.
It was our Divine destiny. Suddenly the keys to unlocking the mind's power and heart's flourishing desire to love as God loves are made effectual. We love such 'a possession' - God, in effect, upon our invitation, has invaded our being. Love wins.
But still, our relationship with God is dependent on us. The Person of the Holy Spirit cannot bear wanton sin as we wallow in it. It desires to flush such filth into oblivion. And only with this Advocate can we do it. Truth wins.
The desire of the Person of the Holy Spirit is to sanctify us through and through; to simplify our focus; to remind us of the overcoming power resplendent in God; to purify us from the colour of scarlet and crimson to white as snow and wool (Isaiah 1:18).
� 2011 S. J. Wickham.
Further Reading: James Stuart Bell, From The Library of A. W. Tozer: Selections from Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey (Minneapolis, Minnesota: Bethany House Publishers, 2011), pp. 152-53.
Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). His blogs are at: [http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/]http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com/ and http://inspiringbetterlife.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Inhabitation-of-the-Holy-Spirit&id=6673870] The Inhabitation of the Holy Spirit
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Enlightenment - Is Life Too Short?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Andrew_J_Cook]Andrew J Cook
I used to wonder and wish about the 'enlightened' ones. I have, on occasion, wished I had joined a monastery or temple and dedicated my life to the ascetic methods that some have deemed necessary to gain oneness with God. The world has seemed devoid of compassion and love, greed pervades every nook and cranny of life, violence is seen on many a street corner and deprivation weaves its tendrils into family life.
Where could God be if not within the cloistered walls of a Christian monastery or Buddhist temple? He certainly isn't here.
Sounds pitiful, doesn't it.
Well it is... and it isn't.
Yes, God is hard to find amongst the corporate bonuses, gang violence and unjust sentences handed out by aged Judges who have lost all concept of what life is like for those who actually work for a living. Don't get me wrong, I am not a lefty socialist. I am against corrupt government exploitation and greed, but not the original idea of democracy. However today's world does not run on democracy; but that is for another article. My thoughts today regard finding God amongst this world devoid of morals, standards and honor.
God is where you find him (her or it... just to placate the sexism brigade).
To be honest I don't like the term God. It engenders too much gender (ahem...). There is too much historical baggage associated with that word. God is asexual, bisexual and anti-sexual. God is Man, God is Woman, God is neuter and God is none of them. God is God; it's just a pity the word God implies masculinity because it immediately restricts a persons idea of what God is.
So, the real point of this post is for me to get my head around whether life is too short for someone, any individual, be they man or woman, to formulate a connection to the divine and gain at least a beginning of an understanding of what God means. Whatever connection is obtained will be limited by the advancement of the persons soul and consciousness. At least I believe that concept to be reasonable. Whoever makes contact will receive 'enlightenment' at a level appropriate to their advancement; or to put it another way, consummate with the degree of understanding that they are capable of maintaining. This does not mean that someone who gains more 'enlightenment' than someone else is better than them. Each of us are where we are on our paths. Those who receive a greater degree of enlightenment are merely further along their own path. Maybe one or two incarnations prior to the moment of now, that enlightened one was exactly where you are now. There is no ego involved with enlightenment. If someone boasts about their level of divine knowledge, then you are safe in assuming they have none. Boasting is a sign of weakness or fear, plain and simple. Claims of miraculous cures or secrets that allow you to advance rapidly along the path to freedom are merely marketing scams promoted by charlatans or people with delusions of grandeur. Prison for the former and psychiatric help for the latter.
Connecting Up
Connection to God, or Universal Consciousness as I prefer to call His Lordship, happens when you are ready, and only when you are ready. If true enlightenment were to happen too early you would likely suffer a psychotic break or develop schizophrenia. The universe knows what is right for you far better than you do. So never, ever worry. If you don't have a connection yet then that means you have other adventures ahead of you. You are not weak, you are not evil, you are not unworthy, you are just where you are, and you are experiencing what you need to experience to get you ready for that amazing moment. Be happy, you are walking the walk, and you are getting closer. The journey matters far more than the goal.
Can someone actually obtain a connection that allows then an insight into the divine?
Of course... it happens all the time.
Day by day the world is waking up. The wake up is speeding up too. Fifteen years ago I would have thought you bonkers if you were to suggest to me that I would become a Reiki Master, and it has taken fifteen years of work, research, experience and practice for me to get to where I am now. It has taken a myriad small steps and many different paths for me to get here. My first 'revelation' occurred shortly after watching an amazing BBC TV adaptation of the story of Merlin, with Sam Neill in the starring role. I was interested to see if the names of the Goddesses used in the program were historically accurate so I started searching on the web.
Wicca
Amongst various articles, I came across something called Wicca and I would think most of you are at least vaguely aware of what Wicca is. I had never heard of it before. When I read about Wicca something started to go bang inside me. It was a slow bang, a slow wave of excitement, adrenalin and a sense of finding my home. I had found what I was looking for without even knowing I was looking for something. The first effect I immediately noticed was a sudden ability to 'feel' the life emanating from plants. This is most notable in spring and summer and something I can still do today. I didn't practice for it and I didn't go looking for the ability. I just can and if there are any Reiki practitioners out there, the feeling is much like the tingling you get in your palms except much finer and gentler.
Of course I went potty. I started running around picking herbs, buying candles and making alter cloths. I over reacted, which is probably quite common for someone in my position at the time. I had never even considered God to be a possibility before, let alone a Goddess as his mate.
After a while I calmed down and started looking into the history of Wicca, where it came from and why. This led me to Gerald Gardner, Aleister Crowley and back to Mathers, Wescott and Waite of the Golden Dawn. To find that Wicca was 'invented' was a real disappointment for me at the time. The basis it had been built on was okay, but there was no true history much before the '50's as far as I could see. So I looked to Aleister Crowley, had a fright, moved on and looked into the Golden Dawn.
Magick
There's real history there boy... so I joined. I was granted a full temple initiation and thought I had made it. Needless to say I hadn't. I was not ready, had personal misgivings about the Temple leader, or Heirophant as they are known, and left about a year later. From there I have dabbled with Thelema (Mr Crowley again), Christianity, more Thelema (there are parts of it that are perfectly valid and reasonable as far as I am concerned) and then tried drifting aimlessly along for a while.
In magical traditions there is something called a Magical Retreat. You break off all communication with the outside world and bury yourself in whatever it is you need to do. This can last for a couple of weeks to several years. Looking back at my aimless time, I believe that to have been my Magical Retreat (of sorts... I still had a job, friends and a social life... just no Magick). It gave me time to grow and digest what I had experienced. My thoughts and ideas have certainly concreted over that time, and I now know what I need in life and what I do not need. The end of the retreat came with my being made redundant last December (2010). That was the metaphorical kick up the bum that I needed to change my life and re-prioritize things.
Reiki
And so, with some synchronicity and good fortune I found my way to Reiki. Now that is a connection. It's available to all who have the calling. The degrees allow for the individual, and the Master, to apply the attunements when the student is ready, and the practice helps build the connection at the speed appropriate for the student. As with all esoteric traditions, because Reiki is one, many are called. Not all will be ready, which is fine. Receiving an attunement when you are not ready is not dangerous at all. The first degree will usually sort that out with the student realizing it is not actually for them. They will go away, go through whatever detox or cleansing they have to go through and move on to other things. They will always be attuned, but if they do not use that gift that is perfectly okay. It is not a sin to not use it. Your path is your path and you must do what you must do. You make your choices based on your life experience and everyone makes a slight detour now and then. It really isn't a problem at all.
So what is this connection then?
Well, I believe the opening of the connection I started way back in the mid-nineties, expanded in the Golden Dawn and then had opened much further by Reiki, is a connection to the Universal Life Energy. Through this energetic connection to the universe, enlightenment can be achieved. Now I will never be as crass as to say I am enlightened, I do not believe I am, but I believe I am very lucky indeed. I also have an immense responsibility, because I now have the training and ability to open up that connection for others. It is incumbent on all Masters to remember this. Reiki is a blessing and a responsibility; a gift that should be nurtured and respected. Reiki is a way of life, not a game. With practice Reiki teaches you about yourself, and you may achieve enlightenment through it, but only when you are ready.
To coin a phrase; Reiki is not just for Christmas.
The connection is there in everyone already, it just needs opening up a little. Some notice it early in life and work with it. Some notice it and ignore it. Many have no idea it is there and today's society does not encourage one to look for it. The calling though is from that still, small voice inside you. That small voice heard when you are in the twilight zone just before sleep that says 'there is something more to life'. Please, if you are lucky enough to hear that voice, that calling, recognize that it is your true self making contact, and it has your best interests at heart. Heed the call, find out who you are and what you are capable of. You will make the world a better place if you do.
Andy Cook is a Reiki Master Teacher, Crystal Therapist and Indian Head Massage practitioner. His approach to his clients is one of providing a holistic treatment to the entire person, not just trying to treat the symptoms presented.
He works out of East London and is also available for Reiki training and attunements by appointment.
Andy's personal blog can be found at http://londonholistic.com/energeticthought where further information and other articles can be found.
Also Andy's business website can be found at http://londonholistic.com where consultation and treatments can be booked.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Enlightenment---Is-Life-Too-Short?&id=6673409] Enlightenment - Is Life Too Short?
I used to wonder and wish about the 'enlightened' ones. I have, on occasion, wished I had joined a monastery or temple and dedicated my life to the ascetic methods that some have deemed necessary to gain oneness with God. The world has seemed devoid of compassion and love, greed pervades every nook and cranny of life, violence is seen on many a street corner and deprivation weaves its tendrils into family life.
Where could God be if not within the cloistered walls of a Christian monastery or Buddhist temple? He certainly isn't here.
Sounds pitiful, doesn't it.
Well it is... and it isn't.
Yes, God is hard to find amongst the corporate bonuses, gang violence and unjust sentences handed out by aged Judges who have lost all concept of what life is like for those who actually work for a living. Don't get me wrong, I am not a lefty socialist. I am against corrupt government exploitation and greed, but not the original idea of democracy. However today's world does not run on democracy; but that is for another article. My thoughts today regard finding God amongst this world devoid of morals, standards and honor.
God is where you find him (her or it... just to placate the sexism brigade).
To be honest I don't like the term God. It engenders too much gender (ahem...). There is too much historical baggage associated with that word. God is asexual, bisexual and anti-sexual. God is Man, God is Woman, God is neuter and God is none of them. God is God; it's just a pity the word God implies masculinity because it immediately restricts a persons idea of what God is.
So, the real point of this post is for me to get my head around whether life is too short for someone, any individual, be they man or woman, to formulate a connection to the divine and gain at least a beginning of an understanding of what God means. Whatever connection is obtained will be limited by the advancement of the persons soul and consciousness. At least I believe that concept to be reasonable. Whoever makes contact will receive 'enlightenment' at a level appropriate to their advancement; or to put it another way, consummate with the degree of understanding that they are capable of maintaining. This does not mean that someone who gains more 'enlightenment' than someone else is better than them. Each of us are where we are on our paths. Those who receive a greater degree of enlightenment are merely further along their own path. Maybe one or two incarnations prior to the moment of now, that enlightened one was exactly where you are now. There is no ego involved with enlightenment. If someone boasts about their level of divine knowledge, then you are safe in assuming they have none. Boasting is a sign of weakness or fear, plain and simple. Claims of miraculous cures or secrets that allow you to advance rapidly along the path to freedom are merely marketing scams promoted by charlatans or people with delusions of grandeur. Prison for the former and psychiatric help for the latter.
Connecting Up
Connection to God, or Universal Consciousness as I prefer to call His Lordship, happens when you are ready, and only when you are ready. If true enlightenment were to happen too early you would likely suffer a psychotic break or develop schizophrenia. The universe knows what is right for you far better than you do. So never, ever worry. If you don't have a connection yet then that means you have other adventures ahead of you. You are not weak, you are not evil, you are not unworthy, you are just where you are, and you are experiencing what you need to experience to get you ready for that amazing moment. Be happy, you are walking the walk, and you are getting closer. The journey matters far more than the goal.
Can someone actually obtain a connection that allows then an insight into the divine?
Of course... it happens all the time.
Day by day the world is waking up. The wake up is speeding up too. Fifteen years ago I would have thought you bonkers if you were to suggest to me that I would become a Reiki Master, and it has taken fifteen years of work, research, experience and practice for me to get to where I am now. It has taken a myriad small steps and many different paths for me to get here. My first 'revelation' occurred shortly after watching an amazing BBC TV adaptation of the story of Merlin, with Sam Neill in the starring role. I was interested to see if the names of the Goddesses used in the program were historically accurate so I started searching on the web.
Wicca
Amongst various articles, I came across something called Wicca and I would think most of you are at least vaguely aware of what Wicca is. I had never heard of it before. When I read about Wicca something started to go bang inside me. It was a slow bang, a slow wave of excitement, adrenalin and a sense of finding my home. I had found what I was looking for without even knowing I was looking for something. The first effect I immediately noticed was a sudden ability to 'feel' the life emanating from plants. This is most notable in spring and summer and something I can still do today. I didn't practice for it and I didn't go looking for the ability. I just can and if there are any Reiki practitioners out there, the feeling is much like the tingling you get in your palms except much finer and gentler.
Of course I went potty. I started running around picking herbs, buying candles and making alter cloths. I over reacted, which is probably quite common for someone in my position at the time. I had never even considered God to be a possibility before, let alone a Goddess as his mate.
After a while I calmed down and started looking into the history of Wicca, where it came from and why. This led me to Gerald Gardner, Aleister Crowley and back to Mathers, Wescott and Waite of the Golden Dawn. To find that Wicca was 'invented' was a real disappointment for me at the time. The basis it had been built on was okay, but there was no true history much before the '50's as far as I could see. So I looked to Aleister Crowley, had a fright, moved on and looked into the Golden Dawn.
Magick
There's real history there boy... so I joined. I was granted a full temple initiation and thought I had made it. Needless to say I hadn't. I was not ready, had personal misgivings about the Temple leader, or Heirophant as they are known, and left about a year later. From there I have dabbled with Thelema (Mr Crowley again), Christianity, more Thelema (there are parts of it that are perfectly valid and reasonable as far as I am concerned) and then tried drifting aimlessly along for a while.
In magical traditions there is something called a Magical Retreat. You break off all communication with the outside world and bury yourself in whatever it is you need to do. This can last for a couple of weeks to several years. Looking back at my aimless time, I believe that to have been my Magical Retreat (of sorts... I still had a job, friends and a social life... just no Magick). It gave me time to grow and digest what I had experienced. My thoughts and ideas have certainly concreted over that time, and I now know what I need in life and what I do not need. The end of the retreat came with my being made redundant last December (2010). That was the metaphorical kick up the bum that I needed to change my life and re-prioritize things.
Reiki
And so, with some synchronicity and good fortune I found my way to Reiki. Now that is a connection. It's available to all who have the calling. The degrees allow for the individual, and the Master, to apply the attunements when the student is ready, and the practice helps build the connection at the speed appropriate for the student. As with all esoteric traditions, because Reiki is one, many are called. Not all will be ready, which is fine. Receiving an attunement when you are not ready is not dangerous at all. The first degree will usually sort that out with the student realizing it is not actually for them. They will go away, go through whatever detox or cleansing they have to go through and move on to other things. They will always be attuned, but if they do not use that gift that is perfectly okay. It is not a sin to not use it. Your path is your path and you must do what you must do. You make your choices based on your life experience and everyone makes a slight detour now and then. It really isn't a problem at all.
So what is this connection then?
Well, I believe the opening of the connection I started way back in the mid-nineties, expanded in the Golden Dawn and then had opened much further by Reiki, is a connection to the Universal Life Energy. Through this energetic connection to the universe, enlightenment can be achieved. Now I will never be as crass as to say I am enlightened, I do not believe I am, but I believe I am very lucky indeed. I also have an immense responsibility, because I now have the training and ability to open up that connection for others. It is incumbent on all Masters to remember this. Reiki is a blessing and a responsibility; a gift that should be nurtured and respected. Reiki is a way of life, not a game. With practice Reiki teaches you about yourself, and you may achieve enlightenment through it, but only when you are ready.
To coin a phrase; Reiki is not just for Christmas.
The connection is there in everyone already, it just needs opening up a little. Some notice it early in life and work with it. Some notice it and ignore it. Many have no idea it is there and today's society does not encourage one to look for it. The calling though is from that still, small voice inside you. That small voice heard when you are in the twilight zone just before sleep that says 'there is something more to life'. Please, if you are lucky enough to hear that voice, that calling, recognize that it is your true self making contact, and it has your best interests at heart. Heed the call, find out who you are and what you are capable of. You will make the world a better place if you do.
Andy Cook is a Reiki Master Teacher, Crystal Therapist and Indian Head Massage practitioner. His approach to his clients is one of providing a holistic treatment to the entire person, not just trying to treat the symptoms presented.
He works out of East London and is also available for Reiki training and attunements by appointment.
Andy's personal blog can be found at http://londonholistic.com/energeticthought where further information and other articles can be found.
Also Andy's business website can be found at http://londonholistic.com where consultation and treatments can be booked.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Enlightenment---Is-Life-Too-Short?&id=6673409] Enlightenment - Is Life Too Short?
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Why Bad Things Happen to Good People
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anne_Sandstone]Anne Sandstone
Like everyone I used to struggle with the question, "why do bad things happen to good people?" It is difficult to make sense of a world where horribly tragic things happen to decent people. Many people question, "why is God allowing this to happen to me? Doesn't he love me?" It is quite logical to ask those questions when you hear about things like tsunamis killing hundreds of thousands of people or when a young child is diagnosed with terminal cancer.
I have come to fully understand why bad things happen to good people First of all, it is important to understand that the Universe does not view events as being good or being bad. They are neutral. It is us and society that judges an event to be good or bad.
My personal belief is that we incarnate to Earth in order to experience the lower vibrations that we don't have access to in the afterlife. It is important to understand emotions such as anger, jealousy, and sadness. I believe that we, as souls in the afterlife, choose lessons to be learned prior to coming to Earth. These lessons may be things like understanding grief or becoming intensely angry. We must be put in situations that allow us to experience these emotions. As a soul you may have chosen your young child to die so that you could experience grief. You may have chosen for your husband to be murdered so that you can better understand anger and forgiveness. You can transform your life if you are able to recognize that our souls choose our life path.
Our main purpose on Earth is to master the lessons that we decided on prior to incarnating. It is important for you to realize that your soul is the one that chose these bad events to take place. Your soul is focused on learning lessons and in order for learning to take place you need to experience the good, the bad, and the ugly.
In some instances the perpetrator (i.e. abuser, drug addict, etc) can in actuality be a soul mate or someone that your soul loves very much. Prior to your incarnation you may have asked the perpetrator to do something heinous just so that you would have the learning experience. Many perpetrators are reluctant to accept these assignments because they love you so much and do not want to be the cause of pain. In the end they decide to do it because your soul has convinced them of how important it is to learn certain lessons.
Please take some time to think about the people you are angry with and the events in your life that you feel are unfair. Ask yourself what each situation has taught you. How are you a better person because of it? Have other areas of your life been enriched through this one negative event? Give credit where credit is due. Keep in mind that your soul decided your life plan prior to incarnating. Your soul likely selected all of the major (good and bad) events in your life.
I sincerely hope that each and every one of you is able to see the perfection and value with everything that happens in life. Be grateful for the experiences and the opportunities that arose from those experiences.
To learn more visit Psychic Awareness today at: http://www.Psychicawareness.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Bad-Things-Happen-to-Good-People&id=6674278] Why Bad Things Happen to Good People
Like everyone I used to struggle with the question, "why do bad things happen to good people?" It is difficult to make sense of a world where horribly tragic things happen to decent people. Many people question, "why is God allowing this to happen to me? Doesn't he love me?" It is quite logical to ask those questions when you hear about things like tsunamis killing hundreds of thousands of people or when a young child is diagnosed with terminal cancer.
I have come to fully understand why bad things happen to good people First of all, it is important to understand that the Universe does not view events as being good or being bad. They are neutral. It is us and society that judges an event to be good or bad.
My personal belief is that we incarnate to Earth in order to experience the lower vibrations that we don't have access to in the afterlife. It is important to understand emotions such as anger, jealousy, and sadness. I believe that we, as souls in the afterlife, choose lessons to be learned prior to coming to Earth. These lessons may be things like understanding grief or becoming intensely angry. We must be put in situations that allow us to experience these emotions. As a soul you may have chosen your young child to die so that you could experience grief. You may have chosen for your husband to be murdered so that you can better understand anger and forgiveness. You can transform your life if you are able to recognize that our souls choose our life path.
Our main purpose on Earth is to master the lessons that we decided on prior to incarnating. It is important for you to realize that your soul is the one that chose these bad events to take place. Your soul is focused on learning lessons and in order for learning to take place you need to experience the good, the bad, and the ugly.
In some instances the perpetrator (i.e. abuser, drug addict, etc) can in actuality be a soul mate or someone that your soul loves very much. Prior to your incarnation you may have asked the perpetrator to do something heinous just so that you would have the learning experience. Many perpetrators are reluctant to accept these assignments because they love you so much and do not want to be the cause of pain. In the end they decide to do it because your soul has convinced them of how important it is to learn certain lessons.
Please take some time to think about the people you are angry with and the events in your life that you feel are unfair. Ask yourself what each situation has taught you. How are you a better person because of it? Have other areas of your life been enriched through this one negative event? Give credit where credit is due. Keep in mind that your soul decided your life plan prior to incarnating. Your soul likely selected all of the major (good and bad) events in your life.
I sincerely hope that each and every one of you is able to see the perfection and value with everything that happens in life. Be grateful for the experiences and the opportunities that arose from those experiences.
To learn more visit Psychic Awareness today at: http://www.Psychicawareness.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Bad-Things-Happen-to-Good-People&id=6674278] Why Bad Things Happen to Good People
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Definitions of Psychics, Mediums, Numerologists, and Others
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anne_Sandstone]Anne Sandstone
Did you know that a medium and a psychic are two different things entirely? Do you know what a numerologist does? How about an astrologist or a past life regression therapist?
WHAT IS A PSYCHIC?
Contrary to popular belief, psychics do not communicate with the deceased. Psychics are focused on you and your current and past lives. A session with a psychic can help you understand if you've chosen the right career or if it is a good idea to marry a certain person.
WHAT IS A MEDIUM?
Get this - all mediums are psychics but not all psychics are mediums. Who would have thought?! A medium is someone who is able to communicate with those who have died. During a session with a medium it is likely that the medium will offer validating facts. They may pass along information like "your father was tall. I feel around 6'4", or "your grandmother came through and is saying something about a small orange kitten. These are things that can be validated.
WHAT IS PAST LIFE REGRESSION THERAPY?
Typically a person enters into a state of hypnosis and is guided back to a previous incarnation. Past life regression therapy is excellent for people who want to know why certain themes keep coming up in their life, i.e. poor relationships, fear of water, fear of enclosed spaces, etc. You might see in a previous incarnation that you drowned at sea hence your fear of water. Past life regression therapy is an excellent technique to use in order to find emotional blocks, to learn the basis of your fears, and to better understand how previous incarnations are effecting your current incarnation.
WHAT IS A PSYCHIC DETECTIVE?
Psychic detectives can become a valuable component of any police department. Psychic detectives often use their psychic ability to get a glimpse at who committed the crime, to lead detectives to where the evidence has been hidden, and most notably they can help to find missing persons. Some people even go so far as to employ a psychic detective to help them to find missing items.
WHAT IS A NUMEROLOGIST?
A numerologist is someone who is able to take numbers, such as your birthday and provide an analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, type of personality, as well as obstacles that may be coming your way. You do not need to be a psychic in order to be a numerologist you just need to know how to analyze the numbers.
WHAT IS AN ASTROLOGIST?
Astrologers look at the alignment of the planets at the time of your birth. From this they are able to provide a detailed analysis of your life's purpose, karma, obstacles, and your personality. Just like the numerologist you do not need to be psychic in order to become an astrologist.
WHAT IS A MEDICAL INTUITIVE?
A medical intuitive is someone who is able to diagnose and treat physical problems. They are able to get a sense of where the disease is located in the body and what it is affecting. Some medical intuitives will hover their hands over your body and do a quick scan. Often times when they have landed on a symptom their hands will begin to heat up. Diagnosis and healing can take place in person or over the telephone. Some healers prefer to work on your healing once you have fallen asleep and are more receptive. With instances where the person isn't physically present the medical intuitive may use a proxy. A proxy is simply a "stand in" for the person. You may choose to use a big doll as your proxy or even a couple of pillows. The information will come in all the same.
These are just a handful of the different specializations within the psychic world. You have a lot of choices when it comes to treating yourself metaphysically.
To learn more visit Psychic Awareness today at: http://www.Psychicawareness.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Definitions-of-Psychics,-Mediums,-Numerologists,-and-Others&id=6674281] Definitions of Psychics, Mediums, Numerologists, and Others
Did you know that a medium and a psychic are two different things entirely? Do you know what a numerologist does? How about an astrologist or a past life regression therapist?
WHAT IS A PSYCHIC?
Contrary to popular belief, psychics do not communicate with the deceased. Psychics are focused on you and your current and past lives. A session with a psychic can help you understand if you've chosen the right career or if it is a good idea to marry a certain person.
WHAT IS A MEDIUM?
Get this - all mediums are psychics but not all psychics are mediums. Who would have thought?! A medium is someone who is able to communicate with those who have died. During a session with a medium it is likely that the medium will offer validating facts. They may pass along information like "your father was tall. I feel around 6'4", or "your grandmother came through and is saying something about a small orange kitten. These are things that can be validated.
WHAT IS PAST LIFE REGRESSION THERAPY?
Typically a person enters into a state of hypnosis and is guided back to a previous incarnation. Past life regression therapy is excellent for people who want to know why certain themes keep coming up in their life, i.e. poor relationships, fear of water, fear of enclosed spaces, etc. You might see in a previous incarnation that you drowned at sea hence your fear of water. Past life regression therapy is an excellent technique to use in order to find emotional blocks, to learn the basis of your fears, and to better understand how previous incarnations are effecting your current incarnation.
WHAT IS A PSYCHIC DETECTIVE?
Psychic detectives can become a valuable component of any police department. Psychic detectives often use their psychic ability to get a glimpse at who committed the crime, to lead detectives to where the evidence has been hidden, and most notably they can help to find missing persons. Some people even go so far as to employ a psychic detective to help them to find missing items.
WHAT IS A NUMEROLOGIST?
A numerologist is someone who is able to take numbers, such as your birthday and provide an analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, type of personality, as well as obstacles that may be coming your way. You do not need to be a psychic in order to be a numerologist you just need to know how to analyze the numbers.
WHAT IS AN ASTROLOGIST?
Astrologers look at the alignment of the planets at the time of your birth. From this they are able to provide a detailed analysis of your life's purpose, karma, obstacles, and your personality. Just like the numerologist you do not need to be psychic in order to become an astrologist.
WHAT IS A MEDICAL INTUITIVE?
A medical intuitive is someone who is able to diagnose and treat physical problems. They are able to get a sense of where the disease is located in the body and what it is affecting. Some medical intuitives will hover their hands over your body and do a quick scan. Often times when they have landed on a symptom their hands will begin to heat up. Diagnosis and healing can take place in person or over the telephone. Some healers prefer to work on your healing once you have fallen asleep and are more receptive. With instances where the person isn't physically present the medical intuitive may use a proxy. A proxy is simply a "stand in" for the person. You may choose to use a big doll as your proxy or even a couple of pillows. The information will come in all the same.
These are just a handful of the different specializations within the psychic world. You have a lot of choices when it comes to treating yourself metaphysically.
To learn more visit Psychic Awareness today at: http://www.Psychicawareness.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Definitions-of-Psychics,-Mediums,-Numerologists,-and-Others&id=6674281] Definitions of Psychics, Mediums, Numerologists, and Others
Sunday, January 22, 2012
How to Increase Your Vibrations
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anne_Sandstone]Anne Sandstone
The higher your vibration the better. Very enlightened people are said to have a high vibration. It is likely that people like Charles Manson or Jeffrey Dahmer had extremely low vibrations. It is possible to increase your vibrational frequency simply by doing the following:
GET GROUNDED
It is vitally important that you ground yourself. The most common way of grounding yourself is to sit in a straight-back chair with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Calm your mind and then visualize roots coming out from the bottom of your feet. Imagine these roots going down to the very center of the Earth. This exercise will help to ground you.
DE-CLUTTER YOUR HOUSE
It is difficult to be spiritually healthy if you live in a cluttered, disorganized home. Take some time to throw out garbage, sort through papers, and do general housekeeping. Think about the garbage and clutter that you threw out. Think about the weight of the garbage bags. Realize how much lighter you are making yourself and the house by throwing away unneeded items.
MEDITATE, MEDIATE, AND THEN MEDITATE SOME MORE
It is so important to quiet your mind. Be creative with your meditation. Do what works for you. It may be that you meditate for ten minutes just after waking up in the morning. Or perhaps you meditate for half an hour every afternoon. You may decide to listen to a guided meditation or you may choose to simply quiet down your mind for a period of time. Meditation can be done while sitting in your chair, laying on the couch, or even while outside gardening or taking a walk.
CLEANSE YOUR BODY
It's very important to cleanse your body. Stay away from cigarettes, alcohol, junk food, drugs and anything else that your Doctor would frown upon. When trying to actively cleanse your body it is best to stay away from meat, to eat lots of fresh vegetables and to drink a lot of water.
EXERCISE
Exercising can be a wonderful way to raise your vibration. It can also be a good way to meditate. Nothing like quieting your mind while huffing it out on a treadmill. Do whatever feels best for you. It may be that your preferred activity is weight lifting while for another person it may be using the elliptical machine. Running can be quite cathartic for some people.
LISTEN TO MUSIC
Music can be incredibly soothing to your soul. Listen to music that makes you come alive. Go by the saying "music to my ears". Choose music that makes you happy, gets you to smile, makes your body feel wonderful. It is great to even sing aloud.
Just reading this article and setting the intention is helping to raise your vibration. The preceding six tips are techniques that will help you to increase your vibrations and to be more in sync with the Universe.
To learn more visit Psychic Awareness today at: http://www.Psychicawareness.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Increase-Your-Vibrations&id=6674285] How to Increase Your Vibrations
The higher your vibration the better. Very enlightened people are said to have a high vibration. It is likely that people like Charles Manson or Jeffrey Dahmer had extremely low vibrations. It is possible to increase your vibrational frequency simply by doing the following:
GET GROUNDED
It is vitally important that you ground yourself. The most common way of grounding yourself is to sit in a straight-back chair with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Calm your mind and then visualize roots coming out from the bottom of your feet. Imagine these roots going down to the very center of the Earth. This exercise will help to ground you.
DE-CLUTTER YOUR HOUSE
It is difficult to be spiritually healthy if you live in a cluttered, disorganized home. Take some time to throw out garbage, sort through papers, and do general housekeeping. Think about the garbage and clutter that you threw out. Think about the weight of the garbage bags. Realize how much lighter you are making yourself and the house by throwing away unneeded items.
MEDITATE, MEDIATE, AND THEN MEDITATE SOME MORE
It is so important to quiet your mind. Be creative with your meditation. Do what works for you. It may be that you meditate for ten minutes just after waking up in the morning. Or perhaps you meditate for half an hour every afternoon. You may decide to listen to a guided meditation or you may choose to simply quiet down your mind for a period of time. Meditation can be done while sitting in your chair, laying on the couch, or even while outside gardening or taking a walk.
CLEANSE YOUR BODY
It's very important to cleanse your body. Stay away from cigarettes, alcohol, junk food, drugs and anything else that your Doctor would frown upon. When trying to actively cleanse your body it is best to stay away from meat, to eat lots of fresh vegetables and to drink a lot of water.
EXERCISE
Exercising can be a wonderful way to raise your vibration. It can also be a good way to meditate. Nothing like quieting your mind while huffing it out on a treadmill. Do whatever feels best for you. It may be that your preferred activity is weight lifting while for another person it may be using the elliptical machine. Running can be quite cathartic for some people.
LISTEN TO MUSIC
Music can be incredibly soothing to your soul. Listen to music that makes you come alive. Go by the saying "music to my ears". Choose music that makes you happy, gets you to smile, makes your body feel wonderful. It is great to even sing aloud.
Just reading this article and setting the intention is helping to raise your vibration. The preceding six tips are techniques that will help you to increase your vibrations and to be more in sync with the Universe.
To learn more visit Psychic Awareness today at: http://www.Psychicawareness.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Increase-Your-Vibrations&id=6674285] How to Increase Your Vibrations
Friday, January 20, 2012
Never Argue With a Demon
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Billie_Chainey]Billie Chainey
Sometimes you have to learn spiritual lessons the hard way. I found this out personally when I argued with a demon.
I had been doing channeling/communicating with the deceased for hundreds of people over the years. At that time I had been channeling a superstar who recently passed over and was posting the messages on my blog.
Being use to seeing spirits of all sorts, I always used spiritual protection during this work. Therefore I considered myself protected from any negative forces. How wrong I was!
One day a demon appeared before me. This demon looked almost human and was dressed as a human, but had the most evil face you can ever imagine. I have seen many evil spirits throughout my life, therefore, this one did not frighten me.
The demon said, "Stop channeling this celebrity! You will regret this very quickly."
"Who are you to tell me what to do?" I responded being the stubborn person that I am.
"Just keep doing this and you will find out," he answered.
"I don't care who you are, you are not going to tell me what I can and cannot do!"
"Remember, you have been warned," was all he said as he looked at me and laughed. He then disappeared.
I was not scared or shaken up because I really felt that no negative force could tell me what I can and cannot do because of my strong spiritual beliefs. I knew that I was helping many people and that is all that I considered.
Well, surprise surprise! Within six weeks I started receiving threatening e-mails, which also included death threats. The source of these threats was coming from another psychic, who felt they were the only person that had the rights to channel celebrities. This person launched a mega campaign against me, sending out media messages and emailing massive groups of people, informing them that I was using my abilities to make money off of a deceased celebrity. This was far from true. I had been channeling the deceased for years before and continue to do so.
I had never heard of this psychic. I believe in just doing my own business and letting others do theirs. I started reading what they were saying about me which was totally untrue.
This unleashed a floodgate of attacks on me. At that point I understood that the demon had given me fair warning and I had chosen not to take heed of the warning.
I still do channelings. If a person had a relationship with a celebrity I would be more than willing to do a channeling, otherwise they can go to someone else who wants fame. I desire only to help people heal, which I find occurs frequently after connecting someone with a deceased loved one.
No matter how spiritually protected you may be, realize it is a spiritual warfare going on! You have to constantly keep protecting yourself. Many people do not believe that this is reality, but I am here to testify that it is! I do not tell you this to live in fear but to live in truth. You have to be intentional in your spirituality. Remember that light penetrates darkness, but darkness never penetrates light.
I learned never argue with a demon and I never will again!
If you would like assistance on learning spiritual protection contact me, Cherokee Billie, and I will teach you all that I have learned.
Cherokee Billie has a doctorate in Naturopathic medicine with many areas of expertise and high educational background in many fields. Cherokee Billie is a world renowned Clairvoyant Psychic Medium who works with serious individuals interested in their search and quest for enlightenment. http://www.cherokeebillie.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Never-Argue-With-a-Demon&id=6676703] Never Argue With a Demon
Sometimes you have to learn spiritual lessons the hard way. I found this out personally when I argued with a demon.
I had been doing channeling/communicating with the deceased for hundreds of people over the years. At that time I had been channeling a superstar who recently passed over and was posting the messages on my blog.
Being use to seeing spirits of all sorts, I always used spiritual protection during this work. Therefore I considered myself protected from any negative forces. How wrong I was!
One day a demon appeared before me. This demon looked almost human and was dressed as a human, but had the most evil face you can ever imagine. I have seen many evil spirits throughout my life, therefore, this one did not frighten me.
The demon said, "Stop channeling this celebrity! You will regret this very quickly."
"Who are you to tell me what to do?" I responded being the stubborn person that I am.
"Just keep doing this and you will find out," he answered.
"I don't care who you are, you are not going to tell me what I can and cannot do!"
"Remember, you have been warned," was all he said as he looked at me and laughed. He then disappeared.
I was not scared or shaken up because I really felt that no negative force could tell me what I can and cannot do because of my strong spiritual beliefs. I knew that I was helping many people and that is all that I considered.
Well, surprise surprise! Within six weeks I started receiving threatening e-mails, which also included death threats. The source of these threats was coming from another psychic, who felt they were the only person that had the rights to channel celebrities. This person launched a mega campaign against me, sending out media messages and emailing massive groups of people, informing them that I was using my abilities to make money off of a deceased celebrity. This was far from true. I had been channeling the deceased for years before and continue to do so.
I had never heard of this psychic. I believe in just doing my own business and letting others do theirs. I started reading what they were saying about me which was totally untrue.
This unleashed a floodgate of attacks on me. At that point I understood that the demon had given me fair warning and I had chosen not to take heed of the warning.
I still do channelings. If a person had a relationship with a celebrity I would be more than willing to do a channeling, otherwise they can go to someone else who wants fame. I desire only to help people heal, which I find occurs frequently after connecting someone with a deceased loved one.
No matter how spiritually protected you may be, realize it is a spiritual warfare going on! You have to constantly keep protecting yourself. Many people do not believe that this is reality, but I am here to testify that it is! I do not tell you this to live in fear but to live in truth. You have to be intentional in your spirituality. Remember that light penetrates darkness, but darkness never penetrates light.
I learned never argue with a demon and I never will again!
If you would like assistance on learning spiritual protection contact me, Cherokee Billie, and I will teach you all that I have learned.
Cherokee Billie has a doctorate in Naturopathic medicine with many areas of expertise and high educational background in many fields. Cherokee Billie is a world renowned Clairvoyant Psychic Medium who works with serious individuals interested in their search and quest for enlightenment. http://www.cherokeebillie.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Never-Argue-With-a-Demon&id=6676703] Never Argue With a Demon
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
In His Presents
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Cortney_Bonner]Cortney Bonner
About a month ago, I was watching the Turner Classic Movie Channel and the Wizard of Oz was just beginning. I had seen it at least fifty times before. I was tempted to turn the station but the spirit of the Lord advised me to watch it again. Thirty minutes into the film, it dawned on me. Dorothy could have gone home any time she chose. She had the "ruby red slippers". Unfortunately, she did not realize the power they possessed. She might have discovered their true worth if only she had questioned why the wizard and the wicked witch wanted them so badly.
I gratefully thank the Lord for those arduous days in college. I was a Radio, Television and Film major and I recalled my studies in epics. It has always been apparent in every epic poem or film, the hero/heroine has always possessed what was needed to succeed. The end is a reflection of the beginning and whether or not we are aware of the precious gifts God has embedded in us, they do exist. We need only find them.
So, many may ask:" Where is my gift? ". This is an excellent question. Assuming you have seen the film, you can remember Dorothy's house being sucked into the eye of the tornado and catapulted to Oz. It is there her house is thrust upon the witch and magically the "ruby red slippers" appeared on her feet. Her great gift was the result of an unfortunate event. This was such a sad beginning.
Therefore, it is suffice to say that we are all Dorothy. In our own way, we are all lost trying to go home. It is along the path (yellow brick road) we find the intelligence, the heart and courage to continue into the unknown. But just like Dorothy, we must help others along the way and only then will we begin to remember that magic(the ruby red slippers) gift given to us in the beginning of our days. It may be that unfortunate event (the house killing the witch) that scarred us that may also be the source of our gifts.
Personally, it has been my experience that the Lord uses that which is broken to fix what is broken. Those of us who are lost may feel broken inside. What we must do is turn to God and allow Him to shine within us so that we may see that our gifts are hidden in our scars. God's great gift of experience molds us into soldiers to do his work and live His dream.
So I pray that we all will remember to live, breathe and walk IN HIS PRESENCE.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?In-His-Presents&id=6673907] In His Presents
About a month ago, I was watching the Turner Classic Movie Channel and the Wizard of Oz was just beginning. I had seen it at least fifty times before. I was tempted to turn the station but the spirit of the Lord advised me to watch it again. Thirty minutes into the film, it dawned on me. Dorothy could have gone home any time she chose. She had the "ruby red slippers". Unfortunately, she did not realize the power they possessed. She might have discovered their true worth if only she had questioned why the wizard and the wicked witch wanted them so badly.
I gratefully thank the Lord for those arduous days in college. I was a Radio, Television and Film major and I recalled my studies in epics. It has always been apparent in every epic poem or film, the hero/heroine has always possessed what was needed to succeed. The end is a reflection of the beginning and whether or not we are aware of the precious gifts God has embedded in us, they do exist. We need only find them.
So, many may ask:" Where is my gift? ". This is an excellent question. Assuming you have seen the film, you can remember Dorothy's house being sucked into the eye of the tornado and catapulted to Oz. It is there her house is thrust upon the witch and magically the "ruby red slippers" appeared on her feet. Her great gift was the result of an unfortunate event. This was such a sad beginning.
Therefore, it is suffice to say that we are all Dorothy. In our own way, we are all lost trying to go home. It is along the path (yellow brick road) we find the intelligence, the heart and courage to continue into the unknown. But just like Dorothy, we must help others along the way and only then will we begin to remember that magic(the ruby red slippers) gift given to us in the beginning of our days. It may be that unfortunate event (the house killing the witch) that scarred us that may also be the source of our gifts.
Personally, it has been my experience that the Lord uses that which is broken to fix what is broken. Those of us who are lost may feel broken inside. What we must do is turn to God and allow Him to shine within us so that we may see that our gifts are hidden in our scars. God's great gift of experience molds us into soldiers to do his work and live His dream.
So I pray that we all will remember to live, breathe and walk IN HIS PRESENCE.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?In-His-Presents&id=6673907] In His Presents
Monday, January 16, 2012
The Importance Of A Tantra Teacher
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Acharya_Subhojit_Dasgupta]Acharya Subhojit Dasgupta
The role of the tantra teacher in learning tantra and benefiting from its practice is beyond dispute. Certain kinds of knowledge can indeed be acquired from books and the Internet; however the vital spiritual aspects and nuances of tantric practice must be expertly imparted. The authentic tantric master has obtained his knowledge from his own spiritual guide, and is beholden to pass it on.
In ancient Indian tradition, the bond between the 'guru' (spiritual teacher or guide) and 'shishya' (seeker) is a sacred and even mystical. In the beginning of the relationship between a tantra teacher and the tantric seeker, a psychic reaction takes place that readies the seeker's mind and renders it fertile for instruction. The tantra master removes all obstacles of doubt, false beliefs and pre-suppositions from his student's mind. Then he proceeds to impart instructions in a manner and at a pace which ensures that the teachings are understood completely.
Receiving tantric instructions from a qualified tantra teacher ensures that the transfer of spiritual knowledge happens optimally and efficiently. Unlike in attempting to learn the tantric arts from books, there is no margin for error in the guru-shishya relationship. Scriptures are expertly explained, and their context to the personal life of the student is made very clear. There is no scope for misinterpretation.
Those who attempt to learn the spiritual concepts and premises of ancient tantra without such expert guidance will soon find themselves discouraged and in a state of spiritual confusion, stagnation and eventually regression.
While it is true that the spiritual seeker must seek out the guru, it is equally true that the guru will decide whether to accept the seeker or not. Obviously, a tantra teacher will not discriminate in his choice of students on the basis of gender, religion, creed or any existing spiritual beliefs. However, no genuine tantric master will accept aspiring students whose focus cannot be elevated from the quest for primitive thrills. This is because tantra is a spiritual science, and it cannot be taught or learned outside a firm spiritual framework.
For every seeker, it is important to first understand the fundamental process of spiritual growth. In the beginning, a burning desire for knowledge and spiritual evolution is enough. The student may also acquire basic knowledge of the tantric path from books or blogs. Once the desire and basic knowledge are acquired, however, the shishya cannot progress without a guru. The guru will then proceed to help the shishya is negotiating the way towards spiritual growth.
Acharya Subhojit Dasgupta is a [http://www.subhojitdasgupta.com]Tantra Teacher with an in-depth knowledge of traditional Indian sciences and Sanskrit literature. Visit his [http://www.tantrasadhana.com]tantra online guide for Tantra Lessons, kriyas and mudras from this young Tantra Master.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Importance-Of-A-Tantra-Teacher&id=6676817] The Importance Of A Tantra Teacher
The role of the tantra teacher in learning tantra and benefiting from its practice is beyond dispute. Certain kinds of knowledge can indeed be acquired from books and the Internet; however the vital spiritual aspects and nuances of tantric practice must be expertly imparted. The authentic tantric master has obtained his knowledge from his own spiritual guide, and is beholden to pass it on.
In ancient Indian tradition, the bond between the 'guru' (spiritual teacher or guide) and 'shishya' (seeker) is a sacred and even mystical. In the beginning of the relationship between a tantra teacher and the tantric seeker, a psychic reaction takes place that readies the seeker's mind and renders it fertile for instruction. The tantra master removes all obstacles of doubt, false beliefs and pre-suppositions from his student's mind. Then he proceeds to impart instructions in a manner and at a pace which ensures that the teachings are understood completely.
Receiving tantric instructions from a qualified tantra teacher ensures that the transfer of spiritual knowledge happens optimally and efficiently. Unlike in attempting to learn the tantric arts from books, there is no margin for error in the guru-shishya relationship. Scriptures are expertly explained, and their context to the personal life of the student is made very clear. There is no scope for misinterpretation.
Those who attempt to learn the spiritual concepts and premises of ancient tantra without such expert guidance will soon find themselves discouraged and in a state of spiritual confusion, stagnation and eventually regression.
While it is true that the spiritual seeker must seek out the guru, it is equally true that the guru will decide whether to accept the seeker or not. Obviously, a tantra teacher will not discriminate in his choice of students on the basis of gender, religion, creed or any existing spiritual beliefs. However, no genuine tantric master will accept aspiring students whose focus cannot be elevated from the quest for primitive thrills. This is because tantra is a spiritual science, and it cannot be taught or learned outside a firm spiritual framework.
For every seeker, it is important to first understand the fundamental process of spiritual growth. In the beginning, a burning desire for knowledge and spiritual evolution is enough. The student may also acquire basic knowledge of the tantric path from books or blogs. Once the desire and basic knowledge are acquired, however, the shishya cannot progress without a guru. The guru will then proceed to help the shishya is negotiating the way towards spiritual growth.
Acharya Subhojit Dasgupta is a [http://www.subhojitdasgupta.com]Tantra Teacher with an in-depth knowledge of traditional Indian sciences and Sanskrit literature. Visit his [http://www.tantrasadhana.com]tantra online guide for Tantra Lessons, kriyas and mudras from this young Tantra Master.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Importance-Of-A-Tantra-Teacher&id=6676817] The Importance Of A Tantra Teacher
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Al-Syed Tahir Alauddin - A Model of Islamic Spiritualism
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Muhammad_Ilyas_Qadri]Muhammad Ilyas Qadri
Islam is a divine movement of peace. The ultimate objective of Islam is to create an atmosphere of justice and kindness at all levels of life, both individual as well as collective. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) is prophet of mercy for whole universe. He is last messenger of Allah. The chain of prophets has completed on his advent. He is prophet for mankind till Day of Judgment. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) left a glorious book (Al-Quran), a prophetic commentary on Quran (Hadith), a noble family (Ahle Bait), and a group of excellent companions (Sahaba) for the guidance of mankind. These are permanent sources of light for mankind. A living saint or scholar is inevitably linked with these sources of light. The prime motive of saints/scholars is to complete the prophetic mission, both intellectually as well as practically. They work at all levels of human struggle; travel on all places of earth, and exists in all moments of time. Earth is always adorned with these noble personalities. The stability, growth, and development of Muslims depend, chiefly, on their persistent efforts towards propagation / glorification of Islam. They are linked with each other, directly or indirectly. They arrive and provide guidance to humanity and Muslims on all aspects of human struggle, now and then.
SIGNIFICANCE OF SPIRITUAL SET-UP & OUR SHEIKH
A person is highly dependent on others in his early phase of life, first 20 years. The next 20 years of an individual are spent on development of a fully matured attitude towards diverse and conflicting life affairs. The second phase of life, 20 to 40, is filled with multiple, multi-layered, and multi-dimensional observations / experiences. It is phase of thinking and rethinking, finally, a person is matured, generally, at the age of 40. A fully matured generation is responsible of all affairs of a nation. However, the life affairs are extremely complex, even a matured individual is, sometime, unable to solve/tackle the riddles of life. A responsible generation, belongs to any temporal-spatial environ, too, has strong tendency or need or demand for some reverent personality for proper and merciful guidance. Consequently, a Divine Mercy is activated and a reverent personality is sent by God for the guidance of mankind, now and again. A transcendental guidance appears in a shape of a prophet or a saint. A divine guidance provides a complete and comprehensive roadmap towards peace and happiness at all aspects of life, material as well as spiritual. The reverent personalities are demand of every individual, followers as well as leaders or young as well as mature. Muslims follow the footprints of the life patterns of reverent personalities. Consequently, a judicious and merciful civilization is shaped. Muslim civilization is chiefly outcome of righteous and noble personalities.
A civilization must face survival/growth challenges. Muslim civilization faced/managed manifold challenges, both internal as well as external, during her lifetime. Islamic World endured hard times and enjoyed glorious periods. A recurrent rise and fall phenomena remained with Muslims, however, a permanent decline or fall or disintegration of Muslims is impossible due to Qaranic verdict about sustainability of Islam and Muslims. In addition, Muslims are stability factor for mankind because they are custodian & follower of last message/messenger of Allah. They have faith on Unity of God and unity of mankind. A recent decline or fall phenomenon occurred with Islamic world at first half of 20th century. The Ottoman Empire collapsed in 1920s due to our collective blunders and conspiracies of imperial forces. The whole Muslim world was facing cruel and inhuman control of Western Powers. Peril of socialism had also come into being and devouring the Muslim world. There were only few waves of awakening among Muslims but it was not possible for any Muslim region/country to live or survive without the shelter of capitalism or socialism. After the so-called World War II, the world has been categorically divided into two imperial blocs - Red (Socialist) & White (Capitalist). At this critical moment of time, there was no politically strong and economically powerful voice among Muslims against this imperial setup. However, according to their traditional approach, the Muslim saints / scholars were doing their work. They were purifying the individuals and developing a thought among Muslims for interlinked structure of Islamic World based on Quranic maxims of Unity of God, unity of believers, and unity of mankind. The struggle was steady and gradual, however, penetrating and stable. It is noteworthy that Sufi struggle is not for hegemony, rather the struggle nurtures peace, affection, and simplicity among her followers. There are many spiritual groups working for purification of self and society. An effective group of saints/scholars that was working (and also presently working) for individual purification and unity of Muslims / mankind was SILSILA QADRIAof Abdul Qadir Gillani(Allah bless his soul).
The most successful and powerful among Qadri group of saints were Al-Gillani Al-Azizi family of Iraq. They are custodians of sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). One of the saints of Gillani family was Abdur Rahman Al-Qadri. He was chosen in 1920 to head the Iraqi Council of Ministers following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire.Sir Percy Cox states in page 128 of the HAND BOOK OF MESOPOTAMIA that he was the most influential "Sunni" and official head of the Arab Community. After the death of Abdur Rahman Qadri his noble son, Mahmood Hisamudin Qadri succeeded him. He had six sons. The youngest one was Al-Syed Tahir Alaudin Al-Qadri. He was born on 18th Rabi Awal 1352 A.H. / 1932 A.D. in Baghdad, capital of Iraq. He is the 17th descendant of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul) and 28th descendant of The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him).
SIGNIFICANCE OF SILSILA QADRIA & SPIRITUAL RANK OF SHEIKH
ALLAH has created mankind for His worship. It is our duty to follow His decrees relating to all aspects of life but we often ignore His orders, fruitful for us, and chase only materialistic well being neglecting the spiritual urges. The materialistic/selfish attitude towards life creates unrest in our individual personality and produces turmoil in our social network, exploitation in our economic structure, chaos in our political field, and degeneration in our cultural outlook. The ultimate outcome of materialistic/selfish approach is continuous and gradual decline of society / civilization. To harness the aforesaid outcome / process, Allah sent His prophets and continuously sending His saints for the guidance of His beautiful creation - man & woman - actually materialist but potentially spiritual. The saints, basically, follow the life pattern of prophets. They relentlessly pursue the prophetic mission with the help of Muslims / mankind. Quran categorically states the existence and effectiveness of saints:
And of those whom we created there is a nation (or groups) who guide with the truth and establish justice therewith
(Al-Quran VII - 181)
According to Quran, it is necessary on Muslims/mankind to follow the life pattern of divinely rewarded groups, i.e., Prophets, saints, martyrs, and righteous. They are rightly guided and bestowed personalities of Allah.
O ye believe! Be careful of your duty to Allah, and be with the truthful
(Al-Quran IX - 119)
In addition, Quran said to Muslims that there should be a group of persons among the believers for the guidance of Muslims / mankind.
And there may spring from you a nation who invite to goodness, and enjoin right conduct and forbid indecency. Such are they who are successful.
(Al-Quran - II - 104)
The early Muslims strictly followed the guidelines provided by Quran towards preaching of Islam, consequently, a range of noble groups developed to provide guidance and to distribute Mercy of Allah. These groups essentially follow the basic principles of Islam. There is no difference among saints on basic tenets of Islam. The pious effort towards goodness by reverent personalities is permanent feature of Muslims; however, the effort was not centrally organized. At the start of 6th century (Islamic calendar), a great Sufi saint arrived in noble progeny of the holy prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him). His name was Abdul Qadir (Allah bless his soul). He chose Baghdad, a centre of Muslim Civilization, for his struggle. He gave a sophisticated and organized look to the work of earlier saints and developed an effective system of guidance and purification for Muslims/mankind. The system is continuously working under the spiritual guidance of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). It is noteworthy, a physical presence of a noble personality connected with noble chain is also essential to attain a reliable spiritual training. The central setup is located in Iraq at sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). Al-Syed Tahir Alaudin was the most important figure of the Gillani setup. The very basis of the system or appointment of some noble personality is Moral Excellence. An appointment is, generally, awarded to sacrificing and devoted individuals. The appointed individuals work only for the sake of Allah. They are free from wrong beliefs/lusty behavior. The highest in spiritual hierarchy is Qutb e Dora'n (the greatest spiritual guider of the time) or Ghous e Zama'n (the greatest spiritual helper of the time). Al-Syed Tahir Alaudinwas considered highest in spiritual rank by the sheiks of the age.During his lifetime, he was giving right guidance and effective help to countless people through his spiritual strength.
EDUCATION - Acquisition & Preaching
Al-Syed Tahir Alaudin Al-Qadrigot his early education from the mosque of Sultan Ali, situated at bank of river Dajla, Baghdad. Then he moved to the institution situated at sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). His teachers were renowned scholars of the time such as Mullah Syed Asad Afundi, Mufti Qasim, and Sheikh Khalil. During his stay in this institution, he also acquired knowledge of Quran, prophetic commentary, and jurisprudence from Grand Mufti of Iraq. However, he remained fond of scientific and divine knowledge throughout his life. He was well aware about the living events confronting the Muslims/mankind. He had extremely good knowledge about the geo-strategic, socio-economic, and political conditions of all regions / nations. He adopted multiple ways and means to acquire a piece of information about nations / regions. He visited different regions of the world and interacted with persons having diverse cultural background. He used to acquire world news and latest events through latest media. In addition, he used some unique means to acquire information about regions / nations. For example, stamp collection and coin collection were his hobbies. These hobbies indicate his thrust and love for knowledge and give a clue to his area of effect. He was very well informed about social, economic, political, and cultural conditions of world/nations. His information was up to date and authentic. He can speak on any topic relating to any discipline or region or nation.
He used his knowledge for the guidance of people. His analysis was based on his knowledge, intuition, and insight. We describe a few examples to introduce the reader about his knowledge and wisdom. Once Hakim Saeed (A world renowned educationist and authority on eastern medicine) visited him, he discussed on eastern medicine with Hakim Sahib and Hakim Sahib was amazed on his knowledge, information and memory about eastern medicine. Once Nasim Shah, a bank officer, visited him and asked a few questions on astrology/numerology, he gave very comprehensive and eye-opening comments on its history and background. An officer of Pakistan Printing Press discussed on printing process and the officer was impressed by his information on printing and distribution process of notes and stamps. Once an owner of a shoe factory visited him, he discussed with him on manufacturing process and types of shoes, the visitor was very impressed by his knowledge of shoe manufacturing. An army officer discussed on ammunition and the officer was astonished on his information about ammunition. A student visited him and discussed his psychological / philosophical confusion, he proposed a very simple but comprehensive solution; the student commented that a very experienced psychologist perhaps can understand/solve the confusion in such a short period of time. The aforesaid examples indicate that he was fully aware about temporal disciplines and their implications. His approach was motivational towards knowledge-lovers/knowledge-seekers.
SPIRITUAL TRAINING - Acquisition & Transference
He got spiritual training from his father who was also his Sheikh - spiritual teacher. He was very fond of worship from his early life. On his early childhood, he used to mediate at sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul) during whole night, although he was fully occupied, during day time, in various activities of the sanctuary. It is noteworthy that his father was the chief patron and custodian of the sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). He also remained administrator of the sanctuary from 1948 to 1953. Due to psychological inclinations, spiritual potential, and physical strive, he covered his spiritual journey very quickly and got "Kharqa" (a formal dress indicating spiritual position) from his father in his early youth. After this, he came into practical life and devoted himself for the preaching of Islam and growth of Islamic Spiritualism (Silsila Qadria and Khankahi Nizam).
He was true example of the life pattern of the Holy Prophet Muhammad(peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) in our time. He never compromised on Islamic values and worked only for the sake of Allah. He disliked fame and worldly recognition. He was far away from lust for wealth / power and very close to Allah. Once, Mr. Ayub Khan (president of Pakistan in 1960s) offered him land and money for his personal use, he replied that he can take only when the treasures of Allah will be exhausted, i.e., it is not possible. He was very humble and polite whenever a person enters/leaves his meeting he welcome/see-off him by standing. However, it was not possible to have eye contact with him due to his psycho-spiritual dignity; moreover, mind-wandering or satanic influence on heart was impossible in his presence due to his spiritual influence and psychological power. A state of contentment is felt on his presence.
He was very affectionate and sober during interaction. His doors were open for the whole community and for every type of person. There was no difference between rich and poor. Friday was fixed for general meetings / guidance. Every one can access him on each Friday for spiritual guidance and pray. For special guidance or meeting, he was available after appointment.
His followers belong to every group of life. Students were his followers and he was very kind on them. Religious scholars like his meeting and learn from his knowledge -Moulana Mustafa Raza Khan, Moulana Sardar Ahmad, Allama Saeed Shah Sahib Kazmi, Mufti Ghulam Sarwar Qadri, Dr. Tahir ul Qadri, Moulana Yusuf Benori, Moulana Mufti Muhammad Shafi, Haji Muhammad hanif Tayab are few examples. Business community was very impressed by his Tawakul (Trust & confidence), Tasaruf (effectiveness), and wisdom - Tahir Tayab, Haji Ismail, Engineer Muhammad Iqbal, Haji Ghulam Muhammad Dossal, Qazi Zahid, Haji Salim, Ghulam Ahmad Kayani, Mian Sharif are few examples. Rulers were faithful and obedient to his spiritual power - President Sadam Hussain, President Ayub Khan, King of Malaysia, King of Mauritius, Prime Minister Bhutto, and President Zia ul Haq are few examples.
TRAVELING & MIGRATION- Rationale & Scope
Traveling, migration and settlement of prophets and saints at different places of the world is part of divine scheme of creation/evolution, when He wants to reward a region He sends His prophets and saints for guidance. Opposite to this, prophets and saints of one region are migrated and settled to some other area before the wrath / justice of Allah descends on a particular region or nation. It was good tiding for the people of Pakistan that Allah sent the noblest person of the time and a pious son of Abdul Qadir (Allah bless his soul) in Pakistan. His very first visit to Pakistan was in 1956, later he decided to settle in Quetta, Pakistan.
At the time of migration to Pakistan, he arrived in Lahore and stayed in sanctuary of Syed Ali Hajveri after completing a spiritual seclusion in the sanctuary, he went to Quetta for permanent settlement. It was later part of 6th decade of 20th century. He stayed in a local Hotel for few days. After sometime he started construction of Al-Gillani House for residence and preaching of Islam. His commitment to Islam and Islamic Spiritualism (Silsila Qadria & Khankahi Nizam) attracted people and they started to visit him to get blessings of Allah. In order to create a permanent ease for followers/visitors, he built another residence in Karachi. He was using his residences as Zavia (a spiritual training centre) for spiritual training of people. He trained many persons and gave them Khilafat (A formal certificate for spiritual training of people).
It is an important teaching of Islam for Muslims to travel on earth for acquisition/distribution of knowledge. He followed the Quranic injunction on travelling with letter and spirit. Although, he had settled in Pakistan, he remained active and moving preacher throughout his life. He visited different areas of the world for the preaching of Islam and growth of Islamic Spiritualism. He visited Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Sweden, Norway, Holland, England, West Germany, Monaco, Belgium, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Seoul, Burma, Japan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, India, and Gulf States. In addition, he was regular traveler within Pakistan to actualize spiritual goals of Islam.
FAMILY LIFE
He has dedicated his life for the preaching of Islam and growth of Islamic Spiritualism. His life was busy in this noble cause. He was visiting different areas of the world to preach Islam and to distribute blessings of Allah. However, there was mounting pressure from different prominent families of the country about his marriage. He was used to say, when Amr (Command) of Allah will descend then I will think on it. Finally, at the age of 35, he decided to marry with the daughter of Khan of Kalat. He has three sons - Al Syed Mahmood Muhyiddeen (14th July, 1968), Al-Syed Adul Qadir Jamaludin (4th June, 1969), and Al-Syed Muhammad Ziaudin (28th May, 1976) - and three daughters.
DEMISE & FINAL RESTING PLACE
Trial & Testing is essential aspect of Divine Scheme of Creation. Allah tests His servants with multiple afflictions. Finally, Allah showers manifold blessing on patient and steadfast. He faced multiple trials, both physical as well as psychological, during his lifetime. However, he remained contented and grateful during hardships. At physical level, he was suffering with kidney trouble from many years. Doctors were suggesting transplantation and many people were ready to donate it but he was not prepared. He said that life and death is in control of Allah why I create trouble for someone by putting one's life in danger. Moreover, he preferred local treatment as compared to foreign treatment. However, there were pressure of doctors and other concerned persons for foreign treatment. At last, he decided to move abroad, Germany, for medical treatment; he moved to Germany on 11th may, 1991 A.D., however, he did not change his mind about transplantation. The problem was becoming more and more severe. People around him were feeling that his REAL FRIEND, ALLAH, is calling him. Like other saints, he was fond of this meeting. He recited the Kalama at the moment of death. On Friday, 23rd Zequa'd 1411 A.H. / 7th June 1991 A.D., he moved from this world to eternal world. It was decided by his family that he would be buried in Township, Lahore. Pir Karam Shah offered his final prayer. A beautiful sanctuary of sheikh and spacious boarding facility for spiritual travelers is under construction. The sanctuary of sheikh has design similar to the design of sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). The whole project is under the kind control of his sons. They are working for the same cause - preaching of Islam and Growth of Islamic Spiritualism (Silsila Qadria & Khankahi Nizam).
PEARLS OF WISDOM
� Divine cognizance is acquired only through following the path of the holy prophet;
� Observance of the life of Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be on him) is a way to achieve Love of Allah;
� A person who doesn't offer pray is like dead;
� If uniformity and unity through Islam is developed in our inner and outer life then it can lead us towards singularity and unity of Muslim World;
� The message of saints is uncontaminated with hatred, friction, prejudice, and strife, on the contrary, their message is totally based on love and kindness, that is why, their efforts can create unity in Muslim World if they fulfill their right role and they can provide a revolutionary service to Islam and the Muslim World up to the level that cannot be achieved by any other group;
� If heart is filled with duplicity, jealousy, hatred, hypocrisy one cannot get reward of his good deeds;
� Socialism, Communism, and Capitalism are three different colors and three different aspects of Satanism;
� Communists are not only enemy of religion but also enemy of humanity;
� Islamic economic and political system is a complete and comprehensive system.
� A hungry man considers every one hungry and a non-respected person considers every one non-respected;
� Through cheating, stealing, and lying, one may get required results but finally one becomes disrespectful and destroys himself.
(Note - For in-depth knowledge interested reader may visit the site, rel=nofollow [http://www.algillani.com]www.algillani.com.)
Muhammad Ilyas
CEO
SMCSE
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Al-Syed-Tahir-Alauddin---A-Model-of-Islamic-Spiritualism&id=6678394] Al-Syed Tahir Alauddin - A Model of Islamic Spiritualism
Islam is a divine movement of peace. The ultimate objective of Islam is to create an atmosphere of justice and kindness at all levels of life, both individual as well as collective. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) is prophet of mercy for whole universe. He is last messenger of Allah. The chain of prophets has completed on his advent. He is prophet for mankind till Day of Judgment. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) left a glorious book (Al-Quran), a prophetic commentary on Quran (Hadith), a noble family (Ahle Bait), and a group of excellent companions (Sahaba) for the guidance of mankind. These are permanent sources of light for mankind. A living saint or scholar is inevitably linked with these sources of light. The prime motive of saints/scholars is to complete the prophetic mission, both intellectually as well as practically. They work at all levels of human struggle; travel on all places of earth, and exists in all moments of time. Earth is always adorned with these noble personalities. The stability, growth, and development of Muslims depend, chiefly, on their persistent efforts towards propagation / glorification of Islam. They are linked with each other, directly or indirectly. They arrive and provide guidance to humanity and Muslims on all aspects of human struggle, now and then.
SIGNIFICANCE OF SPIRITUAL SET-UP & OUR SHEIKH
A person is highly dependent on others in his early phase of life, first 20 years. The next 20 years of an individual are spent on development of a fully matured attitude towards diverse and conflicting life affairs. The second phase of life, 20 to 40, is filled with multiple, multi-layered, and multi-dimensional observations / experiences. It is phase of thinking and rethinking, finally, a person is matured, generally, at the age of 40. A fully matured generation is responsible of all affairs of a nation. However, the life affairs are extremely complex, even a matured individual is, sometime, unable to solve/tackle the riddles of life. A responsible generation, belongs to any temporal-spatial environ, too, has strong tendency or need or demand for some reverent personality for proper and merciful guidance. Consequently, a Divine Mercy is activated and a reverent personality is sent by God for the guidance of mankind, now and again. A transcendental guidance appears in a shape of a prophet or a saint. A divine guidance provides a complete and comprehensive roadmap towards peace and happiness at all aspects of life, material as well as spiritual. The reverent personalities are demand of every individual, followers as well as leaders or young as well as mature. Muslims follow the footprints of the life patterns of reverent personalities. Consequently, a judicious and merciful civilization is shaped. Muslim civilization is chiefly outcome of righteous and noble personalities.
A civilization must face survival/growth challenges. Muslim civilization faced/managed manifold challenges, both internal as well as external, during her lifetime. Islamic World endured hard times and enjoyed glorious periods. A recurrent rise and fall phenomena remained with Muslims, however, a permanent decline or fall or disintegration of Muslims is impossible due to Qaranic verdict about sustainability of Islam and Muslims. In addition, Muslims are stability factor for mankind because they are custodian & follower of last message/messenger of Allah. They have faith on Unity of God and unity of mankind. A recent decline or fall phenomenon occurred with Islamic world at first half of 20th century. The Ottoman Empire collapsed in 1920s due to our collective blunders and conspiracies of imperial forces. The whole Muslim world was facing cruel and inhuman control of Western Powers. Peril of socialism had also come into being and devouring the Muslim world. There were only few waves of awakening among Muslims but it was not possible for any Muslim region/country to live or survive without the shelter of capitalism or socialism. After the so-called World War II, the world has been categorically divided into two imperial blocs - Red (Socialist) & White (Capitalist). At this critical moment of time, there was no politically strong and economically powerful voice among Muslims against this imperial setup. However, according to their traditional approach, the Muslim saints / scholars were doing their work. They were purifying the individuals and developing a thought among Muslims for interlinked structure of Islamic World based on Quranic maxims of Unity of God, unity of believers, and unity of mankind. The struggle was steady and gradual, however, penetrating and stable. It is noteworthy that Sufi struggle is not for hegemony, rather the struggle nurtures peace, affection, and simplicity among her followers. There are many spiritual groups working for purification of self and society. An effective group of saints/scholars that was working (and also presently working) for individual purification and unity of Muslims / mankind was SILSILA QADRIAof Abdul Qadir Gillani(Allah bless his soul).
The most successful and powerful among Qadri group of saints were Al-Gillani Al-Azizi family of Iraq. They are custodians of sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). One of the saints of Gillani family was Abdur Rahman Al-Qadri. He was chosen in 1920 to head the Iraqi Council of Ministers following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire.Sir Percy Cox states in page 128 of the HAND BOOK OF MESOPOTAMIA that he was the most influential "Sunni" and official head of the Arab Community. After the death of Abdur Rahman Qadri his noble son, Mahmood Hisamudin Qadri succeeded him. He had six sons. The youngest one was Al-Syed Tahir Alaudin Al-Qadri. He was born on 18th Rabi Awal 1352 A.H. / 1932 A.D. in Baghdad, capital of Iraq. He is the 17th descendant of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul) and 28th descendant of The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him).
SIGNIFICANCE OF SILSILA QADRIA & SPIRITUAL RANK OF SHEIKH
ALLAH has created mankind for His worship. It is our duty to follow His decrees relating to all aspects of life but we often ignore His orders, fruitful for us, and chase only materialistic well being neglecting the spiritual urges. The materialistic/selfish attitude towards life creates unrest in our individual personality and produces turmoil in our social network, exploitation in our economic structure, chaos in our political field, and degeneration in our cultural outlook. The ultimate outcome of materialistic/selfish approach is continuous and gradual decline of society / civilization. To harness the aforesaid outcome / process, Allah sent His prophets and continuously sending His saints for the guidance of His beautiful creation - man & woman - actually materialist but potentially spiritual. The saints, basically, follow the life pattern of prophets. They relentlessly pursue the prophetic mission with the help of Muslims / mankind. Quran categorically states the existence and effectiveness of saints:
And of those whom we created there is a nation (or groups) who guide with the truth and establish justice therewith
(Al-Quran VII - 181)
According to Quran, it is necessary on Muslims/mankind to follow the life pattern of divinely rewarded groups, i.e., Prophets, saints, martyrs, and righteous. They are rightly guided and bestowed personalities of Allah.
O ye believe! Be careful of your duty to Allah, and be with the truthful
(Al-Quran IX - 119)
In addition, Quran said to Muslims that there should be a group of persons among the believers for the guidance of Muslims / mankind.
And there may spring from you a nation who invite to goodness, and enjoin right conduct and forbid indecency. Such are they who are successful.
(Al-Quran - II - 104)
The early Muslims strictly followed the guidelines provided by Quran towards preaching of Islam, consequently, a range of noble groups developed to provide guidance and to distribute Mercy of Allah. These groups essentially follow the basic principles of Islam. There is no difference among saints on basic tenets of Islam. The pious effort towards goodness by reverent personalities is permanent feature of Muslims; however, the effort was not centrally organized. At the start of 6th century (Islamic calendar), a great Sufi saint arrived in noble progeny of the holy prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him). His name was Abdul Qadir (Allah bless his soul). He chose Baghdad, a centre of Muslim Civilization, for his struggle. He gave a sophisticated and organized look to the work of earlier saints and developed an effective system of guidance and purification for Muslims/mankind. The system is continuously working under the spiritual guidance of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). It is noteworthy, a physical presence of a noble personality connected with noble chain is also essential to attain a reliable spiritual training. The central setup is located in Iraq at sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). Al-Syed Tahir Alaudin was the most important figure of the Gillani setup. The very basis of the system or appointment of some noble personality is Moral Excellence. An appointment is, generally, awarded to sacrificing and devoted individuals. The appointed individuals work only for the sake of Allah. They are free from wrong beliefs/lusty behavior. The highest in spiritual hierarchy is Qutb e Dora'n (the greatest spiritual guider of the time) or Ghous e Zama'n (the greatest spiritual helper of the time). Al-Syed Tahir Alaudinwas considered highest in spiritual rank by the sheiks of the age.During his lifetime, he was giving right guidance and effective help to countless people through his spiritual strength.
EDUCATION - Acquisition & Preaching
Al-Syed Tahir Alaudin Al-Qadrigot his early education from the mosque of Sultan Ali, situated at bank of river Dajla, Baghdad. Then he moved to the institution situated at sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). His teachers were renowned scholars of the time such as Mullah Syed Asad Afundi, Mufti Qasim, and Sheikh Khalil. During his stay in this institution, he also acquired knowledge of Quran, prophetic commentary, and jurisprudence from Grand Mufti of Iraq. However, he remained fond of scientific and divine knowledge throughout his life. He was well aware about the living events confronting the Muslims/mankind. He had extremely good knowledge about the geo-strategic, socio-economic, and political conditions of all regions / nations. He adopted multiple ways and means to acquire a piece of information about nations / regions. He visited different regions of the world and interacted with persons having diverse cultural background. He used to acquire world news and latest events through latest media. In addition, he used some unique means to acquire information about regions / nations. For example, stamp collection and coin collection were his hobbies. These hobbies indicate his thrust and love for knowledge and give a clue to his area of effect. He was very well informed about social, economic, political, and cultural conditions of world/nations. His information was up to date and authentic. He can speak on any topic relating to any discipline or region or nation.
He used his knowledge for the guidance of people. His analysis was based on his knowledge, intuition, and insight. We describe a few examples to introduce the reader about his knowledge and wisdom. Once Hakim Saeed (A world renowned educationist and authority on eastern medicine) visited him, he discussed on eastern medicine with Hakim Sahib and Hakim Sahib was amazed on his knowledge, information and memory about eastern medicine. Once Nasim Shah, a bank officer, visited him and asked a few questions on astrology/numerology, he gave very comprehensive and eye-opening comments on its history and background. An officer of Pakistan Printing Press discussed on printing process and the officer was impressed by his information on printing and distribution process of notes and stamps. Once an owner of a shoe factory visited him, he discussed with him on manufacturing process and types of shoes, the visitor was very impressed by his knowledge of shoe manufacturing. An army officer discussed on ammunition and the officer was astonished on his information about ammunition. A student visited him and discussed his psychological / philosophical confusion, he proposed a very simple but comprehensive solution; the student commented that a very experienced psychologist perhaps can understand/solve the confusion in such a short period of time. The aforesaid examples indicate that he was fully aware about temporal disciplines and their implications. His approach was motivational towards knowledge-lovers/knowledge-seekers.
SPIRITUAL TRAINING - Acquisition & Transference
He got spiritual training from his father who was also his Sheikh - spiritual teacher. He was very fond of worship from his early life. On his early childhood, he used to mediate at sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul) during whole night, although he was fully occupied, during day time, in various activities of the sanctuary. It is noteworthy that his father was the chief patron and custodian of the sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). He also remained administrator of the sanctuary from 1948 to 1953. Due to psychological inclinations, spiritual potential, and physical strive, he covered his spiritual journey very quickly and got "Kharqa" (a formal dress indicating spiritual position) from his father in his early youth. After this, he came into practical life and devoted himself for the preaching of Islam and growth of Islamic Spiritualism (Silsila Qadria and Khankahi Nizam).
He was true example of the life pattern of the Holy Prophet Muhammad(peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) in our time. He never compromised on Islamic values and worked only for the sake of Allah. He disliked fame and worldly recognition. He was far away from lust for wealth / power and very close to Allah. Once, Mr. Ayub Khan (president of Pakistan in 1960s) offered him land and money for his personal use, he replied that he can take only when the treasures of Allah will be exhausted, i.e., it is not possible. He was very humble and polite whenever a person enters/leaves his meeting he welcome/see-off him by standing. However, it was not possible to have eye contact with him due to his psycho-spiritual dignity; moreover, mind-wandering or satanic influence on heart was impossible in his presence due to his spiritual influence and psychological power. A state of contentment is felt on his presence.
He was very affectionate and sober during interaction. His doors were open for the whole community and for every type of person. There was no difference between rich and poor. Friday was fixed for general meetings / guidance. Every one can access him on each Friday for spiritual guidance and pray. For special guidance or meeting, he was available after appointment.
His followers belong to every group of life. Students were his followers and he was very kind on them. Religious scholars like his meeting and learn from his knowledge -Moulana Mustafa Raza Khan, Moulana Sardar Ahmad, Allama Saeed Shah Sahib Kazmi, Mufti Ghulam Sarwar Qadri, Dr. Tahir ul Qadri, Moulana Yusuf Benori, Moulana Mufti Muhammad Shafi, Haji Muhammad hanif Tayab are few examples. Business community was very impressed by his Tawakul (Trust & confidence), Tasaruf (effectiveness), and wisdom - Tahir Tayab, Haji Ismail, Engineer Muhammad Iqbal, Haji Ghulam Muhammad Dossal, Qazi Zahid, Haji Salim, Ghulam Ahmad Kayani, Mian Sharif are few examples. Rulers were faithful and obedient to his spiritual power - President Sadam Hussain, President Ayub Khan, King of Malaysia, King of Mauritius, Prime Minister Bhutto, and President Zia ul Haq are few examples.
TRAVELING & MIGRATION- Rationale & Scope
Traveling, migration and settlement of prophets and saints at different places of the world is part of divine scheme of creation/evolution, when He wants to reward a region He sends His prophets and saints for guidance. Opposite to this, prophets and saints of one region are migrated and settled to some other area before the wrath / justice of Allah descends on a particular region or nation. It was good tiding for the people of Pakistan that Allah sent the noblest person of the time and a pious son of Abdul Qadir (Allah bless his soul) in Pakistan. His very first visit to Pakistan was in 1956, later he decided to settle in Quetta, Pakistan.
At the time of migration to Pakistan, he arrived in Lahore and stayed in sanctuary of Syed Ali Hajveri after completing a spiritual seclusion in the sanctuary, he went to Quetta for permanent settlement. It was later part of 6th decade of 20th century. He stayed in a local Hotel for few days. After sometime he started construction of Al-Gillani House for residence and preaching of Islam. His commitment to Islam and Islamic Spiritualism (Silsila Qadria & Khankahi Nizam) attracted people and they started to visit him to get blessings of Allah. In order to create a permanent ease for followers/visitors, he built another residence in Karachi. He was using his residences as Zavia (a spiritual training centre) for spiritual training of people. He trained many persons and gave them Khilafat (A formal certificate for spiritual training of people).
It is an important teaching of Islam for Muslims to travel on earth for acquisition/distribution of knowledge. He followed the Quranic injunction on travelling with letter and spirit. Although, he had settled in Pakistan, he remained active and moving preacher throughout his life. He visited different areas of the world for the preaching of Islam and growth of Islamic Spiritualism. He visited Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Sweden, Norway, Holland, England, West Germany, Monaco, Belgium, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Seoul, Burma, Japan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, India, and Gulf States. In addition, he was regular traveler within Pakistan to actualize spiritual goals of Islam.
FAMILY LIFE
He has dedicated his life for the preaching of Islam and growth of Islamic Spiritualism. His life was busy in this noble cause. He was visiting different areas of the world to preach Islam and to distribute blessings of Allah. However, there was mounting pressure from different prominent families of the country about his marriage. He was used to say, when Amr (Command) of Allah will descend then I will think on it. Finally, at the age of 35, he decided to marry with the daughter of Khan of Kalat. He has three sons - Al Syed Mahmood Muhyiddeen (14th July, 1968), Al-Syed Adul Qadir Jamaludin (4th June, 1969), and Al-Syed Muhammad Ziaudin (28th May, 1976) - and three daughters.
DEMISE & FINAL RESTING PLACE
Trial & Testing is essential aspect of Divine Scheme of Creation. Allah tests His servants with multiple afflictions. Finally, Allah showers manifold blessing on patient and steadfast. He faced multiple trials, both physical as well as psychological, during his lifetime. However, he remained contented and grateful during hardships. At physical level, he was suffering with kidney trouble from many years. Doctors were suggesting transplantation and many people were ready to donate it but he was not prepared. He said that life and death is in control of Allah why I create trouble for someone by putting one's life in danger. Moreover, he preferred local treatment as compared to foreign treatment. However, there were pressure of doctors and other concerned persons for foreign treatment. At last, he decided to move abroad, Germany, for medical treatment; he moved to Germany on 11th may, 1991 A.D., however, he did not change his mind about transplantation. The problem was becoming more and more severe. People around him were feeling that his REAL FRIEND, ALLAH, is calling him. Like other saints, he was fond of this meeting. He recited the Kalama at the moment of death. On Friday, 23rd Zequa'd 1411 A.H. / 7th June 1991 A.D., he moved from this world to eternal world. It was decided by his family that he would be buried in Township, Lahore. Pir Karam Shah offered his final prayer. A beautiful sanctuary of sheikh and spacious boarding facility for spiritual travelers is under construction. The sanctuary of sheikh has design similar to the design of sanctuary of Abdul Qadir Gillani (Allah bless his soul). The whole project is under the kind control of his sons. They are working for the same cause - preaching of Islam and Growth of Islamic Spiritualism (Silsila Qadria & Khankahi Nizam).
PEARLS OF WISDOM
� Divine cognizance is acquired only through following the path of the holy prophet;
� Observance of the life of Muhammad (peace and blessing of Allah be on him) is a way to achieve Love of Allah;
� A person who doesn't offer pray is like dead;
� If uniformity and unity through Islam is developed in our inner and outer life then it can lead us towards singularity and unity of Muslim World;
� The message of saints is uncontaminated with hatred, friction, prejudice, and strife, on the contrary, their message is totally based on love and kindness, that is why, their efforts can create unity in Muslim World if they fulfill their right role and they can provide a revolutionary service to Islam and the Muslim World up to the level that cannot be achieved by any other group;
� If heart is filled with duplicity, jealousy, hatred, hypocrisy one cannot get reward of his good deeds;
� Socialism, Communism, and Capitalism are three different colors and three different aspects of Satanism;
� Communists are not only enemy of religion but also enemy of humanity;
� Islamic economic and political system is a complete and comprehensive system.
� A hungry man considers every one hungry and a non-respected person considers every one non-respected;
� Through cheating, stealing, and lying, one may get required results but finally one becomes disrespectful and destroys himself.
(Note - For in-depth knowledge interested reader may visit the site, rel=nofollow [http://www.algillani.com]www.algillani.com.)
Muhammad Ilyas
CEO
SMCSE
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Al-Syed-Tahir-Alauddin---A-Model-of-Islamic-Spiritualism&id=6678394] Al-Syed Tahir Alauddin - A Model of Islamic Spiritualism
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Developing Intuition - Way to Success
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jill_Magso]Jill Magso
Have you ever had a feeling that something was a little 'off' about a situation?
Have you ever though a certain way and didn't know why, but it drove you in different direction than the one you originally wanted to take? And later you found that the direction you took was the correct one?
Have you felt something that just 'sensed' right?
Have you ever felt a bad 'vibe' from someone?
Do you think all this is your imagination?
Well, it is something beyond your imagination. Yes, this is intuition.
What is intuition?
It is the part of us that knows what is going on even if we are not totally conscious of it. Intuition, sometimes referred to as inner guidance, can be described as a mechanism of instinctive or inner neither knowing which neither employs nor needs logical thought processes. We can call it as an inner voice, level of awareness or alternative source of knowledge. All of us possess this mechanism with varying levels, and the capacity to develop intuition further.
Developing intuition- Why it is important?
Many great thinkers have emphasized the significance of intuition along with its great impacts on their professional and personal lives. Many define it as 'a priori' knowledge. It is indispensable and essential tool for us.
Developing intuition means to become more aware of what is going on around us. By cultivating this, you can greatly improve your overall living.
The advantages of Developing Intuition
1. Unleashes your imagination and creativity
2. Helps identify and address problems
3. Reduce stress more effectively
4. Integrates right and left brain functions and gives you a more comprehensive perception on issues
5. Helps you be in touch with your subconscious. Thus, it helps you discover out of sight truths about you and different situations in your life
6. prevents the buildup of negative thinking and emotions
7. Helps you make more integrative and better decisions
8. Improves your emotional, mental and physical health
Developing your intuition is like learning any new skill. With more practice, you can get it better. Intuition is also a means of creative self-expression, particularly in the worlds of literature, music and art. This is finally your connection to the subconscious mind. This is why it is amazing source of understanding, wisdom and creative power.
How to Develop Your Intuition Skills?
Intuition is a hunch or guts feeling we all have beyond any logical evidence. We can call it as an alertness that is stimulated by the soul, mind and body collectively. Remember, every one of us is blessed with the ability to be insightful. With some easy steps, one can develop perspective and enjoy its multiple benefits.
1. Calm feeling and pure reason leads to intuition. Intuition can be developed by daily introspection and analysis, exercising common sense, depth of thought, calmness, concentrated activity in one direction, and, best of all, through meditation.
2. Relax your mind. You can focus on what actually matters by slowing down your thinking. Aroma therapy can be helpful too. You can sit comfortably and close your eyes to focus on the aromas or fragrances to alert your perceptions.
3. Focus on your subconscious mind. Listen to your voice in ears, feeling in your stomach or the image in your mind.
4. Express your thoughts through writing or drawing. Getting creative can prove to be a great exercise for your mind.
5. Find a physical activity that you enjoy like yoga, swimming, walking, etc. remember, alertness in the body increases your mind awareness.
6. Proper diet and rest are also integral parts. Nourish your body with essential nutrients and your mind with positive thoughts.
All above tips will help you achieve your desired outcome. So, what are you waiting for? Start your quest to develop your inner voice and get ready to feel the difference now.
Learn more [http://www.silvaintuitionsystem.com/articles/intuition/developing-intuition]developing intuition
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Developing-Intuition---Way-to-Success&id=6672452] Developing Intuition - Way to Success
Have you ever had a feeling that something was a little 'off' about a situation?
Have you ever though a certain way and didn't know why, but it drove you in different direction than the one you originally wanted to take? And later you found that the direction you took was the correct one?
Have you felt something that just 'sensed' right?
Have you ever felt a bad 'vibe' from someone?
Do you think all this is your imagination?
Well, it is something beyond your imagination. Yes, this is intuition.
What is intuition?
It is the part of us that knows what is going on even if we are not totally conscious of it. Intuition, sometimes referred to as inner guidance, can be described as a mechanism of instinctive or inner neither knowing which neither employs nor needs logical thought processes. We can call it as an inner voice, level of awareness or alternative source of knowledge. All of us possess this mechanism with varying levels, and the capacity to develop intuition further.
Developing intuition- Why it is important?
Many great thinkers have emphasized the significance of intuition along with its great impacts on their professional and personal lives. Many define it as 'a priori' knowledge. It is indispensable and essential tool for us.
Developing intuition means to become more aware of what is going on around us. By cultivating this, you can greatly improve your overall living.
The advantages of Developing Intuition
1. Unleashes your imagination and creativity
2. Helps identify and address problems
3. Reduce stress more effectively
4. Integrates right and left brain functions and gives you a more comprehensive perception on issues
5. Helps you be in touch with your subconscious. Thus, it helps you discover out of sight truths about you and different situations in your life
6. prevents the buildup of negative thinking and emotions
7. Helps you make more integrative and better decisions
8. Improves your emotional, mental and physical health
Developing your intuition is like learning any new skill. With more practice, you can get it better. Intuition is also a means of creative self-expression, particularly in the worlds of literature, music and art. This is finally your connection to the subconscious mind. This is why it is amazing source of understanding, wisdom and creative power.
How to Develop Your Intuition Skills?
Intuition is a hunch or guts feeling we all have beyond any logical evidence. We can call it as an alertness that is stimulated by the soul, mind and body collectively. Remember, every one of us is blessed with the ability to be insightful. With some easy steps, one can develop perspective and enjoy its multiple benefits.
1. Calm feeling and pure reason leads to intuition. Intuition can be developed by daily introspection and analysis, exercising common sense, depth of thought, calmness, concentrated activity in one direction, and, best of all, through meditation.
2. Relax your mind. You can focus on what actually matters by slowing down your thinking. Aroma therapy can be helpful too. You can sit comfortably and close your eyes to focus on the aromas or fragrances to alert your perceptions.
3. Focus on your subconscious mind. Listen to your voice in ears, feeling in your stomach or the image in your mind.
4. Express your thoughts through writing or drawing. Getting creative can prove to be a great exercise for your mind.
5. Find a physical activity that you enjoy like yoga, swimming, walking, etc. remember, alertness in the body increases your mind awareness.
6. Proper diet and rest are also integral parts. Nourish your body with essential nutrients and your mind with positive thoughts.
All above tips will help you achieve your desired outcome. So, what are you waiting for? Start your quest to develop your inner voice and get ready to feel the difference now.
Learn more [http://www.silvaintuitionsystem.com/articles/intuition/developing-intuition]developing intuition
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Developing-Intuition---Way-to-Success&id=6672452] Developing Intuition - Way to Success
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Myths Overcoming Hell
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_Sale]James Sale
When I was a child I was fascinated by myths, and especially those concerning the underworld, what we sometimes call journeys into hell. It is difficult to account for why these sort of stories appeal, although now - at the later end of my life - it's all very clear: having been to hell - my 3 months hospitalization - recently, then obviously my fascination was a sort of premonition of the fact!
All cultures have stories of heroes who descend into hell, but the most interesting I know of are the myths of the Ancient Greeks. Many of their heroes stormed hell - Heracles, Theseus, Odysseus to mention only three, three who returned. Of course, some - like Pirithous - failed to make it back.
But of all the heroes who explored hell, the greatest - the one who descended furthest - was ironically not a great warrior at all: the poet and musician Orpheus went deeper into the Underworld than even Heracles, and did it through his music and poetry alone. What is the significance, then, of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth?
First, the desire to enter hell arose not from a compulsion for heroics but because his beloved wife, Eurydice, had died as a result of a snake bite. Thus Orpheus resolved to enter hell in order to bring his wife back to life.
In facing all the dangers and perils of hell, Orpheus' solution was the same: to play his music and sing his song. So Charon, the ferryman, rowed him across the Styx without the obligatory payment; so Cerberus, the three headed dog that was virtually impossible to subdue, except by Heracles, was charmed into sleeping by the music; so all perils and obstacles yielded to the music. Till at last, Orpheus stood in the very throne room of Hades, lord of death and hell, himself.
There, before Hades and his queen, Persephone, Orpheus reached the climax of his song and struck the notes. It is said for the first and only time Hades wept - tears of molten tar. But more remarkable still, being in the throne room itself meant that the sound within its box vibrated throughout the whole domain of hell itself. All in hell heard the song of Orpheus.
Thus it was that the damned, Ixion at his wheel, Tantalus striving for his water, and Sisyphus fruitlessly and endlessly pushing his boulder up the hill only to find it roll back down each time, suddenly froze. They heard the music and their pain lifted. Their dull animal instincts to repeat and repeat their pointless activities - like rats in a maze- gave way to the return of human cognition.
For a moment they experienced relief and were enthralled by beauty - the beauty of Orpheus' singing.
And then it ended - and the damned returned to their endless damnation. Hades was grateful for the entertainment and said he would grant whatever Orpheus wished for; and Orpheus requested the return of the life of Eurydice. This was granted but with one tiny condition: that she follow him some twenty paces behind and that he must not turn to look at her before reaching sunlight again. Orpheus eagerly agreed.
So Orpheus retraced his happy steps, knowing Eurydice was right behind him, following him back to life. But then tragedy struck - within sight of daylight at the end of the tunnel leading up to the world, Orpheus needed to check she was still there. He turned, looked, and even as he did so her form, which had gained substantiality on the way up, now began to de-compose; she waved one last despairing wave, and was gone, forever. His journey had achieved nothing, and he returned alone to the world of sunshine above ground.
But had he achieved nothing? It seems to me two important lessons emerge from the tale. The first is by asking the question, why did he fail? The answer is clear: he failed because of his unbelief - his lack of faith - he did not take the god at his word. The god, who was delighted with the song and the singer, had no reason to lie, and yet Orpheus in turning refused to believe him.
And this is our problem: we do not believe the god who speaks within us - what Jung called the Self - the deeper part of us that incorporates the unconscious and the archetypes. We rationalise and we think our egos know all the truth - and then as we disbelieve the god we are struck down with our own specific tragedies.
The second lesson, however, is far more optimistic. It is to contemplate how hell itself began to turn into heaven as the song was sung; and that reminds us that the universe - the uni (one) - verse (song or poem) is precisely that. All life, all joy is in the music, the pattern, the structure that underpins all that is. And so, even hell is transformed if we can sing our own song.
Are you Orpheus? Are you singing your song - being your own poem? Or are you someone who will die with their music still unsung and inside them? The message is clear: get singing - who knows - you may well rescue your own Eurydice from the depths.
If you would like to find out more about what motivates you, go to: http://www.motivationalmentoring.com/
and try a Personal Motivational Profile. James Sale is Europe's premier expert on motivation. If you would like to book him as a speaker, contact:
- James Sale: +44 (0) 1202 393660
- Visit James on Linkedin - http://uk.linkedin.com/in/jamesmotivationsale
- Or email me - [mailto:info@motivationalmaps.com]info@motivationalmaps.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Myths-Overcoming-Hell&id=6677870] Myths Overcoming Hell
When I was a child I was fascinated by myths, and especially those concerning the underworld, what we sometimes call journeys into hell. It is difficult to account for why these sort of stories appeal, although now - at the later end of my life - it's all very clear: having been to hell - my 3 months hospitalization - recently, then obviously my fascination was a sort of premonition of the fact!
All cultures have stories of heroes who descend into hell, but the most interesting I know of are the myths of the Ancient Greeks. Many of their heroes stormed hell - Heracles, Theseus, Odysseus to mention only three, three who returned. Of course, some - like Pirithous - failed to make it back.
But of all the heroes who explored hell, the greatest - the one who descended furthest - was ironically not a great warrior at all: the poet and musician Orpheus went deeper into the Underworld than even Heracles, and did it through his music and poetry alone. What is the significance, then, of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth?
First, the desire to enter hell arose not from a compulsion for heroics but because his beloved wife, Eurydice, had died as a result of a snake bite. Thus Orpheus resolved to enter hell in order to bring his wife back to life.
In facing all the dangers and perils of hell, Orpheus' solution was the same: to play his music and sing his song. So Charon, the ferryman, rowed him across the Styx without the obligatory payment; so Cerberus, the three headed dog that was virtually impossible to subdue, except by Heracles, was charmed into sleeping by the music; so all perils and obstacles yielded to the music. Till at last, Orpheus stood in the very throne room of Hades, lord of death and hell, himself.
There, before Hades and his queen, Persephone, Orpheus reached the climax of his song and struck the notes. It is said for the first and only time Hades wept - tears of molten tar. But more remarkable still, being in the throne room itself meant that the sound within its box vibrated throughout the whole domain of hell itself. All in hell heard the song of Orpheus.
Thus it was that the damned, Ixion at his wheel, Tantalus striving for his water, and Sisyphus fruitlessly and endlessly pushing his boulder up the hill only to find it roll back down each time, suddenly froze. They heard the music and their pain lifted. Their dull animal instincts to repeat and repeat their pointless activities - like rats in a maze- gave way to the return of human cognition.
For a moment they experienced relief and were enthralled by beauty - the beauty of Orpheus' singing.
And then it ended - and the damned returned to their endless damnation. Hades was grateful for the entertainment and said he would grant whatever Orpheus wished for; and Orpheus requested the return of the life of Eurydice. This was granted but with one tiny condition: that she follow him some twenty paces behind and that he must not turn to look at her before reaching sunlight again. Orpheus eagerly agreed.
So Orpheus retraced his happy steps, knowing Eurydice was right behind him, following him back to life. But then tragedy struck - within sight of daylight at the end of the tunnel leading up to the world, Orpheus needed to check she was still there. He turned, looked, and even as he did so her form, which had gained substantiality on the way up, now began to de-compose; she waved one last despairing wave, and was gone, forever. His journey had achieved nothing, and he returned alone to the world of sunshine above ground.
But had he achieved nothing? It seems to me two important lessons emerge from the tale. The first is by asking the question, why did he fail? The answer is clear: he failed because of his unbelief - his lack of faith - he did not take the god at his word. The god, who was delighted with the song and the singer, had no reason to lie, and yet Orpheus in turning refused to believe him.
And this is our problem: we do not believe the god who speaks within us - what Jung called the Self - the deeper part of us that incorporates the unconscious and the archetypes. We rationalise and we think our egos know all the truth - and then as we disbelieve the god we are struck down with our own specific tragedies.
The second lesson, however, is far more optimistic. It is to contemplate how hell itself began to turn into heaven as the song was sung; and that reminds us that the universe - the uni (one) - verse (song or poem) is precisely that. All life, all joy is in the music, the pattern, the structure that underpins all that is. And so, even hell is transformed if we can sing our own song.
Are you Orpheus? Are you singing your song - being your own poem? Or are you someone who will die with their music still unsung and inside them? The message is clear: get singing - who knows - you may well rescue your own Eurydice from the depths.
If you would like to find out more about what motivates you, go to: http://www.motivationalmentoring.com/
and try a Personal Motivational Profile. James Sale is Europe's premier expert on motivation. If you would like to book him as a speaker, contact:
- James Sale: +44 (0) 1202 393660
- Visit James on Linkedin - http://uk.linkedin.com/in/jamesmotivationsale
- Or email me - [mailto:info@motivationalmaps.com]info@motivationalmaps.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Myths-Overcoming-Hell&id=6677870] Myths Overcoming Hell
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