Constant Contemplation is the Way to Reach God

Mental Peace can be obtained only by constant contemplation of God. This cannot be purchased from the market. It is only by constant contemplation of God that mental worries can be overcome. This is the experience of people all over the world. Contemplation of God alone can bring about mental peace and happiness. No other means can achieve this….

Contemplation of God is the right royal path that would remove all types of worries…. March on along the glorious divine path. All the karmas [actions] in the spiritual field are meant to bring peace and happiness to us. They are not intended to trouble us. Mental peace can be achieved only by performing one’s own duty, not by any other means. Karma brings about a result; and that result brings happiness and peace. Even when you are undergoing difficulties, always think that they are meant to bring you happiness. Every human being undergoes difficulties, only to enjoy happiness later. However, he does not realize this during the period of suffering. But, in course of time, when suffering  ends and happy days arrive, he would realize the truth, Hence, always remember the truth that sorrows and difficulties are prelude to happy days ahead. In fact, real happiness comes out of suffering only.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 37, p. 176-177

Suppose you are digging a pit; the soil is taken out and stacked by its side becomes a mound. You need not feel anxious that the pit is becoming deeper and deeper. The soil that is dug out of the pit and the soil that is piled up next to the pit are the same. Similarly, along with the difficulties you undergo, you will experience happiness also in abundant measure. When you fill in the soil that is piled up (namely happiness) in the pit of sorrows and difficulties, you will attain a state of equanimity. This is what you have to realize today. You need not feel so sorry, “Oh! I have fallen into this pit of sorrows and difficulties. How can I come out of this? How am I to bear this?” The soil of happiness stacked next to the pit of suffering may be filled into the pit. You will attain a state of equanimity. You have to do this sadhana.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 37, p. 178

There was a well known devotee who underwent many difficulties. He was always devoted to God. Whenever he was in a difficult situation, he used to sing, “Oh God! Won’t You pull me out of these difficulties?” Even when he was sick and was hospitalized, he used to sing, “Oh, Lord! How long do I have to suffer this agony! Won’t You relieve me of this pain?” Once I went to the hospital to see him. I consoled him saying, “My dear, never think of these difficulties and sufferings. These things happen to test your faith in God. You will come out successful in this test by constant namasmarana [remembrance of the name of the Lord].” A devotee like him, who is constantly engaged in namasmarana under all circumstances, will become immortal. Namasmarana is the only property that lasts forever. Therefore you also undertake this sadhana, as a lifelong activity. Whether your voice is good or not, continue to sing the glory of God by constant namasmarana at least in your heart. Thereby, you will acquire merit that will protect you throughout your life. If you do this sadhana, God will always be with you, in you and around you.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 37, p. 181-182

Whenever you encounter suffering either bodily or mentally, do not lose your cool. Do not get dejected. Instead, face the problem squarely and undertake activities that will instill a sense of courage and confidence in you. No doubt, situations do arise in life when we have to undergo sorrow and difficulties. When our loving parents depart from this world, we are in  deep sorrow. Instead of losing our poise in such difficult situations, it is advisable to face the ordeal with courage, expressing gratitude to our parents for granting us the gift of this body.

Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 37, p. 197