Self Confidence-The Basis for Faith in God- Faith in Self, Faith in God Part 02

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A engineer who plans a tall building knows the importance of a strongfoundation. To reach great heights, he must first dig down to a firmbase in the earth. It would be foolish to build upon shifting sands,for the structure would soon topple. The firm foundation for faith inGod is faith inself. When we reach down to the solid basis inourselves, our progress is assured.If we cannot find our own inner strength, how will we recognize divinepower? Faith in self is the basis for faith in God, for it is thedivinity within that enables us to recognize the divinity in the world. If we had never tasted the sweetness of sugar, why would we seek it out in the candy store?"Self confidence is the

basis of faith in God also. People who do notknow who they are and who have no confidence in their strength andpower assert that there is no God. But how can they declare that theGod in whom you believe and who exists for you does not exist?" BabaDivinity lies hidden within every person. Spiritual discipline revealsit. Like deriving butter from milk, certain methods are required tomake divinity emerge. When we act our aspirations with faith in ourability, we earn God's grace and guidance in the task. Those who makethe effort, seizing every chance for advancement, earn that grace."Everyone has the right to earn grace, but those like Ramakrishna, whohave faith in themselves, will earn it soon and plentifully. God lovesthose who have the self confidence and the courage of conviction andwho seize

every opportunity to improve their spiritual status" BabaSelf confidence arises from the atma, the inner reality. Even if we donot recognize the source of our strength, it is enough if we heed itsdirection. The voice within is the unfailing guide to higherexperience. It manifests as a thirst for truth and goodness. It assures us of our abilities and worth. It discloses the paths of right and wrong."Your self is God. You have faith in your judgement, your intelligence, your ability, because God within tells you not to falter or fear. That assurances wells from within, from your basic truth, which is otherwise called God. It does not matter if you do not call it God. It is enough if you believe in yourself; that is the real test of theism" BabaContinued... Self Confidence-The Basis for Faith in God-A Formula forSuccess Part 03