How devotion leads to experiencing God

In order to experience God, we must learn some facts about God and His relationship with us. God has three main roles vis-à-vis us. The first is the continuation of creation based on dharma (the highest principles). The main feature here is the karmaphala principle, which is: “What you sow is what you reap.” The second is to help all those who turn to God, as appropriate. The third is to micromanage the lives of devotees in order to take them towards liberation. God uses His ichcha shakti (divine willpower) to do all this.

God respects the free will of all souls — His parts (the Bhagavad Gita 15.7). Didn’t Lord Krishna involve Arjuna in the Mahabharata war only after Arjuna agreed, stating that he would do what the Lord asked him to do, which was to fight to uphold dharma? God adjusts His response according to what suits a particular devotee. In my case, my Lord has much to reform in order to help me qualify for the privileged position of liberation. Only very advanced devotees, like Swami Vivekananda, attain it at a relatively young age.

For others, kriyamana (what is presently being done) is crucial. Svabhava (nature) change is what has to be addressed. Don’t we each have a unique nature due to our varied past? God deletes the balance prarabdha (accumulated karmaphalas) prior to granting liberation, once the nature becomes acceptable.

Now, about experiencing God: the first thing you need to do is to have His company 24x7. It is not practical to do this in a temple, but it is possible with a large photograph of an avatar (incarnation). You also have to ensure that the image is such that the Lord’s eyes are painted in a way that they appear to follow you and see whatever you are doing. This photograph must be hung in the room where you spend most of your time. In my case, it is my bedroom, where I have also placed my worktable.

Now become aware that God is watching you. He does, whether you realise it or not. Lord Krishna has clearly stated that His eyes are everywhere (Bhagavad Gita 13.14). This is a good start. Now begin praying for whatever you need. Remember, God will not be pleased if your prayers are for anything even remotely against dharma.

Simultaneously, start some spiritual practice, such as chanting God’s names-in your case, the name of the avatar chosen by you. Now, a communication has been established between you and God. It is a good time to seek guidance and help in whatever you do. God will respond because you have met all the necessary conditions for it.

You will be surprised, as God uses many mediums and ways to communicate. In my case, my Lord usually speaks to me early in the morning. Additionally, intuitions come regularly. The extent of my purity determines how receptive I am. Life has taken a superb turn; I am able to experience and enjoy God’s company whenever I turn to Him.

The writer is a spiritual teacher and a popular columnist; Views presented are personal.