Devotion

The devotee is ever conscious that the universe is a manifestation of the Divine and is permeated by the Divine. His life is based on the recognition of the immanence of God in everything. This state of mind is called “prema advaitam” (unity in love.) Through this love the devotee experiences his oneness with the Divine. Enjoying the bliss of this experience, the devotee does not even desire moksha (Liberation from birth and death). Unremitting love of the Lord is everything for him. Such devotion is known as “ananya bhakti” (total devotion to One and One only).

Those who regard themselves as devotees should recognize the vast difference between their narrow-minded attitude and the ineffable character of true devotion. They should resolve to shed petty attachments and develop steadfast devotion to God as the main object of their life.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 19, p. 2-4

Today we see numerous devotees who may appear to be good persons. But in their conduct, do they really behave like devotees? Their devotion should be judged by what they do. Only then will the omnipresence of God be demonstrated. Their actions should show that they believe in the oneness of God. Wherever they are, their faith should be evident. But today this kind of devotion is not to be seen. What we find are self-centered and selfish persons, who are filled with egoism and acquisitiveness. With such attitudes, there is no limit to the evil propensities they can develop.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 19, p. 159

Everyone must strive to fill the heart with true devotion. Constant contemplation on the form of the Lord and frequent repetition of the Lord’s name are the means by which the heart is filled with the love of God. When there is this love, the devotee is filled with inexpressible ecstasy. … The universe is permeated with love. It is the embodiment of Vishnu. There is nothing in the cosmos, no place in it where He is not present. To regard the universe as a manifestation of God and to experience it as such is real devotion.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol.19, p. 4-5

Without firm faith in the omnipresence of the Divine, devotion has no meaning. By developing faith, devotion is nourished and devotion enables one to face all the vicissitudes of life with fortitude and serenity, regarding them as dispensations of providence. Finally one-pointed devotion for God leads to union with the Divine.

Self-realization is the goal. Love is the means. It is through the cultivation of Love that life can find fulfillment. Everyone must strive to achieve this fulfillment by filling this human adventure with the sweetness of love and transforming it into an expression of divinity.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 19, p. 6-7