Devotion

A Devotee that prays with concentration and trust in God is the best. Similarly those who believe in His omnipresence (existence in all places) and accordingly treat everything as equal with the pious and unbiased feeling are destined to reach Almighty’s abode.

But the latter type of devotees, who have bodily desires, is set to suffer much to reach God as it involves a lot of physical strain.

God relieves those surrendering their actions or efforts to Him, from the shackles of life and rebirth. So, one should train all efforts towards God only, and attain the freedom(salvation) from bondage of vicious cycle of birth and death.

The bhajans, prayers, and meditation enable to focus on Almighty.

Even if one finds these difficult to practice, must discharge his/her duties with utmost involvement and dedication to God.

Still if one is unable to follow the above methods, must practice to contain the  mind and senses, and relinquish the benefits of all actions.

Knowledge of the scriptures is superior to the mere usage of Scriptures to reach God without understanding their intent and significance.

Worship of God’s form by devotion through penance is superior to such knowledge.

Still better, if you renounce the benefits of such action or karma.

Because, through sacrifice, one can instantly secure the everlasting bliss which is actually God only.

One who views everything with disinterest, has no likes or hate, loves all equally, has no pride but patience, and who remains unaffected by good or bad but satisfied in everything, and who believes in God and submits all his actions to Him, is the most loved by God.

One who treats both praise and criticism equally, unmindful of the possession but remembers Him only, is the most acclaimed devotee of God.

( Extracts from Chapter 12, Bhakti Yoga )