Lesson 47 in A Course in Miracles holds significant relevance for the current year and will continue to serve as a guiding principle for me. Titled "God is the strength in which I trust," I frequently integrate this lesson into my work with clients. It begins with a thought-provoking statement…
It starts out saying in paragraph one, “If you are trusting in your own strength, you have every reason to be apprehensive, anxious, and fearful. What can you predict or control? What is there in you that can be counted on? What would give you the ability to be aware of all the facets of any problem and resolve them in such a way that only good can come of it?”
After that, there is a series of rhetorical questions, in paragraph 2. It says, “Of yourself, you can do none of these things. To believe that you can is to put your trust where trust is unwarranted and to justify fear, anxiety, depression, anger, and sorrow.”
In the course of client consultations surrounding their difficulties and concerns, when I identify emotions like fear, anxiety, or anger, I often share this passage with them. Collaboratively, we explore the text, utilizing it as a valuable tool to gain insight into their present experiences. I provide them with the text via email or text messages and encourage them to share their reflections.
The primary lesson I derive from the aforementioned section pertains to the acknowledgment that, as human beings, our cognitive capacities are limited in encompassing the intricate dimensions of the challenges we encounter. Even seemingly straightforward issues, like a car breaking down and requiring towing to a repair shop, conceal numerous underlying complexities. This lesson underscores the wisdom in abstaining from presuming we possess the comprehensive knowledge essential to address such matters.
It is essential that we filter every challenge, difficulty, and problem we encounter through our inner divine source. Whether one refers to it as the Holy Spirit, the inner Buddha, the quantum field, or any other name, I personally prefer to call it the inner genius or the inner GPS. This choice is based on the realization that our human cognitive capacity falls short when attempting to comprehensively assess all variables and solve complex problems.
This concept generally resonates with most individuals. It is akin to the well-known 'butterfly effect,' where a seemingly minor action, like a butterfly's wing flap in Brazil, can influence phenomena as significant as the melting of ice caps in the North Pole. In our world, there are innumerable 'butterfly effects' occurring at each moment, impacting the actions of every individual. The sheer magnitude of these interactions surpasses our limited computing capabilities. Consequently, relying solely on oneself for solutions can prove challenging.
What's interesting about this teaching is that it begins by acknowledging that it's entirely natural to feel anxious, fearful, and apprehensive if this is the manner in which one has been navigating life. This validating starting point distinguishes it from traditional advice that often urges people to shed their anxiety, stress, and fear without providing a practical foundation. Instead, it empathetically recognizes one's struggles and associates these emotions with self-reliance, which can only carry us so far.
In our current digital era, efficiency is paramount. The GPS, a modern marvel, exemplifies this concept beautifully. No longer do we need to possess intricate knowledge of the route; we simply need to identify our destination and place our trust in the GPS to guide us seamlessly. Compare this to a few decades ago when seeking directions involved stopping at gas stations, scribbling notes, and potentially getting lost. The contrast is stark. This analogy sets the stage for discussing the concept of tapping into our 'inner GPS' or inner divine power in coaching sessions or daily self-reflection.
The subsequent section of the lesson explicitly asserts, “His voice speaks for him in all situations and in every aspect of all situations, telling you exactly what to do to call upon his strength and protection. There are no exceptions to this.”
This section of the material demands my repeated scrutiny. I find myself pondering whether it truly conveys what I interpret or if my understanding is subjective. It appears to endorse the idea that unwavering success is assured if we heed that inner voice, guiding us step by step. This notion is so remarkable that it merits a moment of reflection.
One of the primary reasons for my continuous engagement with this lesson is the realization that much of what I encounter in the media appears to lack explicit reference to this approach. While it's possible that some individuals are employing it, it isn't readily apparent. It's as if there's an inclination to address issues and devise solutions without consulting the inner GPS, the inner divine. This, in turn, intensifies my resolve to adhere to this practice.
A fitting metaphor for this is attempting to sail a boat while disregarding the influence of the wind, which is beyond our control. We might prepare the ropes, hoist the sails, gather our equipment and crew, and put forth our best efforts. However, the pivotal factor remains the wind. Similarly, in life, we often engage in numerous actions while neglecting the very force that propels us forward—the external power beyond our individual capabilities.
The subsequent section emphasizes the significance of meditation practices that connect us with our inner wellspring of guidance, protection, and strength. It underscores the need for four or five-minute practice periods and encourages longer and more frequent sessions. This practice demands dedication and commitment.
The text proceeds to advise spending a minute or two in introspection, identifying situations in our lives plagued by fear, and dismissing these apprehensions by affirming, "God is the strength in which I trust." This is a precise method for tapping into our inner guidance, applying it to real-life scenarios, and reaffirming our trust in a higher power to guide us through these challenges.
To underscore this point, it urges us to overcome concerns associated with our perceived inadequacy and reinforces the idea that self-reliance alone may eventually lead to failure. However, with a connection to our inner source, success is guaranteed.
I occasionally astonish my clients by humorously proclaiming, "Oh, Dave is as dumb as a doorknob." Lately, I've been using this phrase more frequently. While some may find it off-putting, the underlying reason behind this statement aligns with the lesson we're discussing. I'm not genuinely suggesting that I'm a complete imbecile; instead, I acknowledge that, in comparison to the divine and the complex world issues we strive to address, I recognize my limitations. I'm well aware that, left to my own devices, I'm prone to making significant and often unfortunate mistakes. This is a common dilemma among most leaders observed in various contexts. Thus, when I jest that I'm as unwise as a doorknob, I'm essentially reminding myself that without divine guidance, the outcome might resemble such recklessness. It's a playful and lighthearted way to maintain both humility and amusement in this context.
The final point I wish to emphasize here, as I've personally delineated these aspects and now contemplate them during my practice of this lesson, is that in the latter part of the practice session, we are encouraged to reach deep within our minds to discover a place of genuine sanctuary. “You will recognize that you have reached it if you feel a sense of deep peace, however briefly.” The next instruction is to let go all the trivial things that churn and bubble on the surface of your mind and reach down and below them to the kingdom of heaven. It's like the kingdom of heaven is somewhere in there, in the mind, and this lesson is guiding us to, to reach into the kingdom of heaven. Then it amplifies this several different ways as follows. “There is a place in you where there is perfect peace.” That sounds promising; more than promising. “There is a place in you where nothing is impossible.” Now, that's where the miracles come into play! I reiterate, “There is a place in you where nothing is impossible.”
Our aim is to establish contact with these profound inner dimensions, which is nothing short of extraordinary. This concludes the comprehensive recap of today's lesson.
Now, I would like to take a brief moment to unveil next year's theme for my miracle conversations: vision. While I've explored this theme in my previous teachings, I intend to introduce new dimensions to our discussions this time around. Vision, as elucidated by the course, is not related to physical eyesight but pertains to the manner in which we perceive reality. Initially, this concept can be perplexing, almost tormenting. What do you mean I'm not seeing? However, the underlying message is that we are not truly perceiving the reality we should be. We should be recognizing the attributes I enumerated earlier: the peace of God, the inner kingdom, the realm where nothing is beyond reach, and the dwelling place of God's omnipotence. These aspects are not typically discerned in the external world. Hence, we lack genuine vision. The central focus is on how to cultivate authentic vision directed inwards.
Another implication arises when the course employs the term "vision." It signifies not just our way of seeing but also all the miracles awaiting us. In essence, these miracles have already been set in motion for each of us, and there's no need for us to orchestrate them. We are simply tapping into the realm where these miracles already exist. I am enthusiastic about delving into this theme throughout the upcoming year, and our discussions will kick off next month, in November 2023, to provide a head start for the year 2024.
Now, I would like to direct your attention to my book, "Nightmares to Miracles," and provide a concise summary of some key points from the conclusion of the book. In the Further Resources section, you'll find a compilation of books I've referenced here. This serves as a succinct summary of the books that I believe can be truly transformative in aligning with the essence of this book. This is a marked departure from my first book, "Signs and Wonders," where I was situated in a New York City apartment, surrounded by approximately 2,000 books in my living room. Managing these books became a formidable task - organizing, studying, and extracting knowledge to return to the library. The mechanics of handling and organizing these books proved to be more challenging than I had anticipated.
We have also explored "miracle movies" in our discussions. In this appendix, beginning on page 131 and extending further, you will find links to all the references from Chapter Four, focusing on mind training. These links offer valuable resources to supplement your own journey in cultivating a miracle mindset. Each category contains items of significance, all accompanied by links or information for related resources, offering assistance in various areas.
Next, you will find links for subscribing to our newsletter and enrolling in the "Nightmares to Miracles" course. When you sign up for our newsletter, you will receive a complimentary nine-page guide that complements the various aspects of my work. Additionally, there is another link that requires a password for access. Upon entering the password, you will gain access to a comprehensive 17-page roadmap. The primary advantage of this is that you will have access to all the high-resolution images featured in the book. If you have the paperback version, you can use this link to access the images in full color, allowing you to enlarge and scrutinize them in greater detail, as they may appear relatively small in the printed book. If you already possess the book, I highly recommend taking advantage of this offer.
Furthermore, we offer access to a free Facebook group where you can engage with like-minded individuals. You will also find links to our podcast and my first book. These are just a few of the resources at your disposal. As a part of our audience, please do not hesitate to reach out with any inquiries or concerns. I am readily available to address your questions and assist in resolving any issues, including any concerns about outdated links or related matters.
I have discovered that these resources effectively facilitate continued engagement and connection for individuals, irrespective of their economic circumstances. In conclusion, I strongly encourage you to utilize these resources, which are designed to invigorate your miracle mindset, and to engage in meditative practices that foster a deeper connection with the miracles emanating from the strength of the divine.
