Adverse times often drive us to pray with more intensity and intimacy than when we are in holy places. This intensity arises from the infusion of emotions triggered by the challenges we face. Difficulties make us feel helpless, creating an acute awareness of our dependence on the Lord. This can evoke fervent prayers. However, adversity alone does not guarantee devotion; otherwise, everyone in difficulty would naturally turn to the Lord. Emotions, influenced by the fickleness of the mind, are unpredictable and often uncontrollable, as highlighted in the Bhagavad-gita (6.34).

To transcend such emotional unpredictability, we need to become less dependent on emotions for motivating or evaluating our prayers. While we can be grateful for moments of deep connection with Krishna, our focus should be on nurturing that connection through determined devotional practices. Determination entails raising our intention above fleeting emotions, ensuring our devotion remains steady regardless of our emotional state.

The Lord’s reciprocation is similarly unpredictable. Krishna, being a living and loving person, reciprocates on his terms, not in a mechanical or predictable way. Saints often describe their longing for Krishna’s presence, a longing intensified by what some traditions call the “dark night of the soul,” where both external and internal supports for devotion seem absent.

Visiting holy places can provide favorable devotional stimuli. However, bhakti is not mechanical—merely being in a holy place does not guarantee devotional enrichment. If we don’t experience an increase in devotional emotions, we should avoid negative interpretations, such as thinking the Lord is displeased or our heart is irreparably barren. Instead, we can focus on explanations that encourage devotion and distance ourselves from those that dishearten us.

Ultimately, a devotee sees the spiritual journey as an adventure, where unpredictability adds to the experience. While we can cherish consistent devotional stimuli, we should also embrace the dynamic and unpredictable aspects of devotion as features of this divine adventure. Resourcefulness and gratitude for favorable stimuli, combined with resilience during dry phases, help us remain steady on the path of bhakti.

Summary:

  • The intensity of prayers amid adversity can arise from emotions triggered by helplessness and need, but this is not guaranteed due to the mind’s fickleness.
  • While holy places provide favorable stimuli, they do not mechanically ensure devotional enrichment, as bhakti is not dependent solely on external factors.
  • Embracing the unpredictability of the spiritual journey as a divine adventure helps us remain resourceful and grateful, regardless of fluctuating emotions or circumstances.

Think it over:

  • Reflect on two instances when difficulties intensified your prayers and when they didn’t. What does this reveal about the relationship between adversity and devotional intensity?
  • Recall two experiences in holy places—one where you felt the Lord’s intimate presence and one where you didn’t. What can you learn about the connection between external devotional stimuli and internal experiences?
  • What principle can help you resourcefully navigate the unpredictability of the spiritual journey?

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09.14 Always chanting My glories, endeavoring with great determination, bowing down before Me, these great souls perpetually worship Me with devotion.