The pursuit of wellbeing is a major component to properly define individual human existence. We all seek happiness, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose in our lives. However, in our quest for these elusive gifts, we often find ourselves entangled in the intricate web of religion, where the line between genuine devotional growth and self-deception blurs. This blog post explores the notion that wellbeing is not something to be chased but received, shedding light on how religion can inadvertently lead us astray in this pursuit.
In the realm of religion, the pursuit of wellbeing often takes on a peculiar form. Many religious doctrines and traditions instill in their followers a sense of duty, righteousness, and piety. While these values can undoubtedly be virtuous, the danger lies in the belief that one must chase them relentlessly to attain a state of wellbeing.
Religion, in its various forms, sometimes deceives us by making us believe that we can earn wellbeing through strict adherence to its principles. It encourages us to chase "rightness," "piety," and "sobriety" as if they were tangible goals. In doing so, it fosters a mindset that overlooks the essence true devotional growth—a journey that transcends mere outward appearances and rituals.
The Bible, as I often say and show, offers profound insights into the nature of wellbeing and personal devotional growth and development. It contains wisdom that extends beyond religious boundaries and can be appreciated by seekers of all backgrounds.
Central to the Bible's mind is the idea that wellbeing, in its truest sense, is not something to be attained through external actions. It is a state of “being” that is received when we align our inner selves with higher truths and principles, truths and principles the Bible’s words offer to their student. In essence, the Bible emphasizes the importance of an inward transformation, a shift in consciousness that goes beyond the surface of religious practices.
When we engage our belief with the Bible's wisdom, we open ourselves to a higher form of devotional consciousness. It's not merely about reciting verses or adhering to religious rituals; it's about internalizing the profound lessons embedded in the scriptures.
The Bible challenges us to explore our inner landscapes, to question our motives, and to cultivate a genuine sense of compassion and love for all minds. In doing so, it elevates our consciousness to a higher plane—one where the pursuit of rightness, piety, and sobriety is not a rigid chase but a natural consequence of an enlightened and refreshed mind.
The Bible's wisdom, like that of other spiritual texts, underscores the importance of consistent self-examination and inner growth, which is why it says, “Examine yourselves,” 2 Corinthians 13:5. It invites us to exercise our minds and inward persons through meditating on the Bible’s words, self-reflection, and a deep exploration of our relationship with the character or mindset therein.
In this process, we come to realize that the pursuit of wellbeing is not an external race but an internal journey. True wellbeing is not about chasing external markers of righteousness; it is about nurturing the seeds of goodness within our hearts and minds by an outlook that is personally and faithfully cultivated.
It is easy to fall into the trap of chasing external ideals of rightness, piety, and sobriety as means to attain “wellbeing.” However, the wisdom within the Bible teaches us that true wellbeing is not a destination but a continuously developing state of being—a gift received through inner transformation.
By engaging our devotional conversation with the Bible's words, we awaken a higher form of consciousness within our personal and our devotional self. We learn that wellbeing is not about chasing what is handwritten but about nurturing our inner selves consistently.
In the end, the path to true wellbeing lies not in the relentless chase but in the gentle reception of Bible’s wisdom residing within us, waiting to bloom when we align our devotional mind with those truths that guide our journey.