Quote from Jesus: A Gospel of Love: David: “Jesus said in the Bible that we should be meek. And gentleness is meek. But how can you be truly gentle with yourself if you are still tied up in believing and identifying with ego concepts? Because it is only our mind's identification with concepts that brings in defensiveness. On the other hand, if your mind is devoted to purpose, you will draw forth all kinds of witnesses of that devotion. Because that is how it works. We perceive what we believe. The world is an outward picture of an inward condition. It reflects our consciousness back to us. So, really, whenever you want to know what the state of your mind is, you could also say, What is the state of the world that I perceive? This gives me the most accurate indication of where your mind is in its mind training. As you allow yourself to be open to the Presence of God's Love, and as you become more and more focused on this purpose and calling, the fear fades, and you no longer perceive error.”
The World as a Mirror: Reflections of Devotion
In our quest for deeper understanding and spiritual growth, we face a challenge: How can we comprehend our own minds and their states? How do we know we are on the right path in our spiritual practice? The answer lies in viewing the world as a mirror.
Devotion and Witness
When we devote ourselves to a higher purpose—whether it’s love, wisdom, compassion, or realization—we begin to attract evidence of that devotion. These pieces of evidence manifest as experiences, encounters, insights, and moments of clarity. They are like small glimmers of light on our spiritual journey.
It’s as if the world responds to our inner state. When we radiate love into the universe, we receive love in return. When we seek wisdom, we encounter teachers and books that offer insight. The world becomes our collaborator, our guide, and our mirror.
The World as Reflection
The world functions as a mirror, reflecting our inner state. If we view the world through the lens of fear, we perceive danger, conflict, and limitations. If our minds are filled with anger, we see anger and confrontation everywhere. However, looking at the world through the lens of love, we discover beauty, compassion, and opportunities.
The world seems to say, “Here is what you believe. Here is how you see yourself and others. Here is your inner state.” We can use this reflection to adjust our minds, cleanse our perceptions, and choose a higher consciousness.
Indication of Mind Training
When we seek to understand our own minds, we can examine how we perceive the world. Are we full of judgments and criticism? Are we fearful or open? Do we see limitations or possibilities? This accurately indicates where our minds stand in their spiritual training.
So, let us regard the world as our spiritual mirror. Let us look for the evidence that confirms our devotion. And let us remember that our inner state shapes our external experiences. In this mirror, we find guidance, truth, and the opportunity to choose the perspective of love.
Indeed, the world as a mirror is a powerful concept that can help us navigate our spiritual journey. It's not just about seeing the world through a positive lens but also about recognizing the correlation between our inner states and outer experiences.
Let's take a typical scenario as an example. Imagine you're learning a new language, and you're constantly worried about making mistakes. You might find that people are less willing to speak with you or correct you, reinforcing your fear of errors. However, if you approach the learning process with confidence and curiosity, you'll likely encounter more supportive and encouraging individuals.
This example illustrates the idea that our mindset influences the world around us. When we're consumed by fear or self-doubt, we create a reality that reflects those feelings. On the other hand, when we're filled with love, confidence, and devotion, we draw experiences that align with those qualities.
Now, you might wonder, "How do I cultivate a positive mindset when struggling with negative thoughts and emotions?" The key is mindfulness and self-compassion. By acknowledging and accepting our emotions, we can begin to shift our focus toward growth and love.
So, the next time you find yourself in a challenging situation, take a moment to examine your thoughts and feelings. Ask yourself, "What am I believing about this situation? How do I perceive it? What would happen if I shifted my perspective?"
By practicing this simple yet powerful exercise, you'll develop a better understanding of your mind and learn how to create a more loving and supportive reality. And, as you continue on your spiritual journey, remember to view the world as a mirror—a reflection of your inner state and a guide for your growth. 🌟🙏✨