The soil essential for religious growth presupposes a progressive life of self-realization, the co-ordination of natural propensities, the exercise of curiosity and the enjoyment of reasonable adventure, the experiencing of feelings of satisfaction, the functioning of the fear stimulus of attention and awareness, the wonder-lure, and a normal consciousness of smallness, humility. Growth is also predicated on the discovery of selfhood accompanied by self-criticism—conscience, for conscience is really the criticism of oneself by one’s own value-habits, personal ideals.
Urantia Communion
This passage from the Urantia Book is rich with concepts about spiritual growth. Here's a deeper exploration of the ideas presented:
1. "The soil essential for religious growth presupposes a progressive life of self-realization..."
* Soil Analogy: The metaphor of "soil" is crucial. It implies that spiritual growth isn't something that happens instantly, but rather requires a nurturing environment and the right conditions to take root and flourish. Just as a seed needs fertile soil to grow, spiritual development needs a receptive and conducive inner landscape.
* Progressive Self-Realization: This emphasizes that understanding oneself is a journey, not a destination. It's a continuous process of uncovering layers of your being, becoming aware of your motivations, strengths, weaknesses, and potential. This self-awareness is the foundation upon which religious growth is built.
2. "...the co-ordination of natural propensities..."
* Natural Propensities: These are your inherent tendencies, inclinations, and desires. They are part of your human nature.
* Co-ordination: This implies balance and harmony. It's not about suppressing your natural desires, but rather understanding them and integrating them into your spiritual life in a healthy way. It's about aligning your will with your higher purpose.
3. "...the exercise of curiosity and the enjoyment of reasonable adventure..."
* Curiosity: A thirst for knowledge and understanding is essential for spiritual growth. It drives you to seek answers, explore different perspectives, and deepen your understanding of the world and your place in it.
* Reasonable Adventure: This suggests a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, to embrace new experiences, and to take calculated risks in your spiritual journey. It's about being open to growth and change.
4. "...the experiencing of feelings of satisfaction..."
* Satisfaction: This highlights the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in your spiritual pursuits. It suggests that true religious growth is not about deprivation or suffering, but rather about experiencing a deep sense of contentment and purpose.
5. "...the functioning of the fear stimulus of attention and awareness..."
* Fear as a Stimulus: This is a fascinating point. It suggests that fear, when understood and channeled properly, can be a catalyst for spiritual growth. It can prompt us to pay attention to our lives, to become more aware of our shortcomings, and to seek deeper meaning and purpose.
* Attention and Awareness: Fear can motivate us to become more mindful of our thoughts, actions, and motivations. It can awaken us to the need for change and growth.
6. "...the wonder-lure, and a normal consciousness of smallness, humility..."
* Wonder-Lure: This refers to the sense of awe and mystery that we feel when we contemplate the vastness of the universe and the mysteries of existence. It's a sense of wonder that draws us towards something greater than ourselves.
* Humility: Recognizing our place in the grand scheme of things fosters humility. It helps us to acknowledge our limitations and to be open to learning and growth.
7. "Growth is also predicated on the discovery of selfhood accompanied by self-criticism—conscience..."
* Discovery of Selfhood: This is the ongoing process of understanding who you truly are, beyond the surface level of personality and ego. It's about uncovering your authentic self and your unique purpose.
* Self-Criticism (Conscience): This is the crucial element that ties everything together. Conscience, as defined in the passage, is the internal mechanism that allows you to evaluate your actions and motivations in light of your own values and ideals. It's the inner voice that guides you on your spiritual path.
In essence, this passage paints a picture of spiritual growth as a dynamic and multifaceted process that involves:
* Continuous self-exploration: Understanding your strengths, weaknesses, and motivations.
* Balancing your nature: Integrating your natural tendencies into your spiritual life.
* Embracing curiosity and adventure: Being open to new experiences and perspectives.
* Finding joy and fulfillment: Experiencing satisfaction in your spiritual journey.
* Learning from fear: Using fear as a catalyst for awareness and growth.
* Cultivating wonder and humility: Recognizing your place in the universe.
* Developing a strong conscience: Using your internal compass to guide your actions and choices.
This passage from the Urantia Book offers a profound and insightful perspective on the nature of religious growth. It emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, self-awareness, and the continuous striving for higher ideals.
Michael Of Nebadon
