We pray throughout our life, that is, when we feel helpless for various reasons, like some trouble strikes or we need something very badly. Does God respond? He must, as He is our ‘anshi’ (whole). The relationship with God is not like a parent-child relationship. The relationship with God is very different. The ‘ansha’ (part), which one is, must willingly, that is, using free will, take shelter of God. If we do so by praying, etc., God will respond in a suitable manner, as determined by Him.
How do we know what God has decided? Surely, some signal must come from Him. There are many ways God chooses to respond. The first is through an intuition; it is a good feeling, an instant guidance. Then, it could come through a medium chosen by God; this could be a close relative. God may appear in a dream and instructor speak directly in early morning like 4 am. This is also how God gives ‘vardaan’ (boons). Or a minor miracle may happen, and divine signal is received. All these points to what action a person, turned a devotee, should take.
The next question is about being able to ascertain whether the signal is from God or we ourselves are imagining it. The first thing I do is to check about it from the Bhagavad-Gita. Some verse from this eternal book of wisdom will confirm it. For further confirmation, we need to go to a spiritualist, mostly a guru or a well-informed friend.
Then, the third question follows, which is how to qualify for such a privilege. The obvious answer is by becoming a devotee, which is to agree to remain in shelter of God. Give up ‘ahankar’ (false ego) and become very humble. There must be a strong desire to serve God, which fits in with God’s plan, which God has for all of us. One must be prepared to act on God’s instructions. Increasing purity and sensitivity will enhance receptivity. Yes, full surrender should be practised by praying for guidance and help, and be very grateful upon getting the desired guidance and help.
What could be the purpose of God for helping us is the last question in this regard. This Creation belongs to God, and He is responsible for its smooth functioning. Then, God must help His devotees to gain the ultimate prize of ‘moksha’ (liberation). These fortunate souls become ‘nimitta’ (instruments of God) to serve the Creation. God on His part guides and helps; reforms, as necessary; encourages to be good by following ‘dharma’ (highest principles); alerts; warns and punishes in order to make one receptive to the required changes.
Benefits to a devotee are many, the main being getting a direction in life, which suits an individual. Answers from the Omniscient about whatever trouble one is facing helps greatly. Are you ready? Believe me, the increased receptivity of signals coming from God have enriched my life like I could not have imagined.
The writer is a spiritual teacher and a columnist; Views presented are personal.