Difference between revisions of "Practices to strengthen"

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"I gain strength from all who practice with me."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 212</ref>
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"All things that are most highly valued in human life— love, patience, devotion, tolerance, forgiveness, true accomplishment, courage and faith—all naturally arise from Knowledge, for Knowledge is their source. They are but the outward expression of a mind that is serving Knowledge. Thus, they need not be forced upon oneself through arduous self-discipline. They arise naturally, for the mind serving Knowledge can only exemplify its own greatness and its own capabilities. What requires self-discipline is to reorient your focus, to reorient your devotion and to reorient your service. You either serve Knowledge or you serve the substitutes for Knowledge, for in all things you must serve." <ref>[https://stepstoknowledge.com/ ''Steps to Knowledge''], Step 208</ref>
 +
 +
"Everyday is a practice where you either move forward, stay where you are or fall back in increments and sometimes to larger degrees. Time is both a gift and a responsibility here, never to be wasted for long." <ref>Marshall Vian Summers, Campfire Chat of the [https://www.community.newmessage.org/study/ Free School of the New Message], April 16, 2016. (registration required)</ref>
  
 
==Acceptance==
 
==Acceptance==
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my life as a demonstration of the presence of Knowledge and I give
 
my life as a demonstration of the presence of Knowledge and I give
 
myself now to cultivate that which is of the greatest good within
 
myself now to cultivate that which is of the greatest good within
myself to be given to the world.”<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 28</ref>
+
myself to be given to the world.”<ref name="stk28">''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 28</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Accountability==
 +
"Review the past week of practice, rereading all of the instructions and with each step reviewing what has transpired in your times of practice. Be sure to ask yourself how deeply you were involved in practice—how much you wanted to search and investigate, how carefully you examined your own experience and to what extent you felt motivated to penetrate whatever barriers that might exist." <ref name="stk28"/>
 +
 
 +
==Application of the mind==
 +
 
 +
"Our practices today will be engaging the mind in exploration and analysis. This is a useful application of your mind. Think about this message and all of your ideas surrounding it, and you will begin to understand your own current belief system. You will be able to understand this objectively. Then, you will be able to work with it, for the mind is fixed in a certain structure until it is utilized for other purposes. Do not accept this structure as your reality, for the outward manifestation of your mind is a structure that you have imposed upon it. Yet, its real inward harmony and nature seek only to be expressed. To enable this to happen you must have an adequate structure in the mind to enable the mind to express itself in the physical world without restraint or distortion. It is towards this, then, that We will work today."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 127</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Awakening==
 +
 
 +
"Look upon people in
 +
the world and see how homeless they appear to be. Remember
 +
how they are truly at home but do not realize it. Like yourself,
 +
they are asleep at home. You are learning now to awaken from
 +
your sleep, and you are realizing that you are still at home
 +
because your Spiritual Family is with you, Knowledge is with
 +
you and your Teachers are with you." <ref name="stk353"/>
  
 
==Awareness==
 
==Awareness==
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can come easily to you to guide you, comfort you and correct you
 
can come easily to you to guide you, comfort you and correct you
 
when necessary. But first you must feel the power of God, and in this
 
when necessary. But first you must feel the power of God, and in this
you will find your own strength."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 41</ref>
+
you will find your own strength."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 41</ref>
  
 
"Be attentive upon the hour today and have confidence that
 
"Be attentive upon the hour today and have confidence that
being attentive will yield its own true results for you.... In your deeper meditation practices be attentive, be present
+
being attentive will yield its own true results for you." ... "In your deeper meditation practices be attentive, be present
 
and give yourself in stillness within the sanctuary of Knowledge. You
 
and give yourself in stillness within the sanctuary of Knowledge. You
need only be attentive. Judgment is not necessary."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 338</ref>
+
need only be attentive. Judgment is not necessary."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 338</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
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Knowledge is, not merely applying your own ideas, not merely
 
Knowledge is, not merely applying your own ideas, not merely
 
applying your past understanding, but thinking about what Knowledge
 
applying your past understanding, but thinking about what Knowledge
really is."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 1</ref>
+
really is."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 1</ref>
 
 
==Compassion==
 
 
 
"Look upon people in
 
the world and see how homeless they appear to be. Remember
 
how they are truly at home but do not realize it. Like yourself,
 
they are asleep at home. You are learning now to awaken from
 
your sleep, and you are realizing that you are still at home
 
because your Spiritual Family is with you, Knowledge is with
 
you and your Teachers are with you." <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 353: [http://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step353-My-True-Home-is-in-God.htm My True Home is in God.]</ref>
 
  
 
==Certainty==
 
==Certainty==
 
"Allow your confidence to dispel fear, doubt and anxiety.
 
"Allow your confidence to dispel fear, doubt and anxiety.
 
Support your efforts today, for they require your support on behalf of a
 
Support your efforts today, for they require your support on behalf of a
greater certainty that you are now learning to receive."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 141</ref>
+
greater certainty that you are now learning to receive."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 141</ref>
  
"Spend two ... periods of 15 to 20 minutes in
+
"Spend two longer periods of 15 to 20 minutes in
 
considering what your true foundation may be. Think of all your ideas
 
considering what your true foundation may be. Think of all your ideas
 
about this."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 6</ref>
 
about this."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 6</ref>
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clear, for with Knowledge all things become clear and all questions
 
clear, for with Knowledge all things become clear and all questions
 
disappear."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 263</ref>
 
disappear."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 263</ref>
 +
 +
==Compassion==
 +
 +
"The failures of others will engender your compassion." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 207</ref>
  
 
==Competency==
 
==Competency==
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"Silently and in stillness,
 
"Silently and in stillness,
 
as you sink into the depths of Knowledge, receive the peace and the
 
as you sink into the depths of Knowledge, receive the peace and the
confirmation that are your birthright."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 171</ref>
+
confirmation that are your birthright."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 171</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|right|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|right|The Great Practices]]
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arising within yourself. Practice in stillness, and do not be discouraged
 
arising within yourself. Practice in stillness, and do not be discouraged
 
if it is difficult at first. Simply practice and you will proceed.
 
if it is difficult at first. Simply practice and you will proceed.
Throughout the day..., without doubt or hesitation,
+
Throughout the day as well, without doubt or hesitation,
 
pursue your true goal in life. From this true goal will come all of the
 
pursue your true goal in life. From this true goal will come all of the
 
important things that you will need to accomplish and the great power
 
important things that you will need to accomplish and the great power
 
of vision and discernment that will allow you to find those individuals
 
of vision and discernment that will allow you to find those individuals
that you have come into the world to find."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 18</ref>
+
that you have come into the world to find."<ref name="stk18">''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 18</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
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==Creativity==
 
==Creativity==
 
"In your two meditation practices today, attempt to feel the
 
"In your two meditation practices today, attempt to feel the
presence of ... true assistance. In stillness and in silence, feel this
+
presence of that true assistance. In stillness and in silence, feel this
 
within your life and around you. These meditation practices will begin
 
within your life and around you. These meditation practices will begin
 
to open a greater sensitivity within you, a whole new sense. You will
 
to open a greater sensitivity within you, a whole new sense. You will
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==Determination==
 
==Determination==
  
"Try to see in your observations of others how captivating the world is and how captivating the mind is. Ultimately, the only thing that can keep you from Knowledge is the mind. It may seem like the world is dominating you, but in reality it is the mind. Observe this. You will not have to look far. It is all around you. You can look at your own experience to see how close at hand this is and how important it is for you to be present wherever you are and with whatever you are doing."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step t17</ref>
+
"Try to see in your observations of others how captivating the world is and how captivating the mind is. Ultimately, the only thing that can keep you from Knowledge is the mind. It may seem like the world is dominating you, but in reality it is the mind. Observe this. You will not have to look far. It is all around you. You can look at your own experience to see how close at hand this is and how important it is for you to be present wherever you are and with whatever you are doing."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 17</ref>
 +
 
 +
"Practice feeling the strength of your own will. Do not let [[fear]]
 +
and [[doubt]] cloud your mind. You need not try to feel the will of
 +
God. It is simply there. It only requires your attention for you to
 +
recognize it. Therefore, practice deeply by simply being present
 +
to this experience."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 43</ref>
  
 
==Direction==
 
==Direction==
"Your Teachers love you, surround you and
+
"Feel this love,
support you, for you are emerging into Knowledge. This calls them to
 
your side. You are one of the few who has the promise and the
 
opportunity to emerge from the sleep of your own imagination into
 
the grace of Reality....  [F]eel this love,
 
 
support and direction. It is a feeling. It is not ideas. It is a feeling. It is
 
support and direction. It is a feeling. It is not ideas. It is a feeling. It is
 
something you must feel. Love is something you must feel to know.
 
something you must feel. Love is something you must feel to know.
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[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
==Discernment==
 
==Discernment==
"In your longer practice periods, engage yourself ...
+
"In your longer practice periods, engage yourself once again
 
with attempting to comprehend today’s lesson. Do not be happy with
 
with attempting to comprehend today’s lesson. Do not be happy with
 
false assumptions. Consider all thoughts and feelings in favor of or
 
false assumptions. Consider all thoughts and feelings in favor of or
against today’s idea [I MUST LEARN TO GIVE WITH DISCERNMENT]. Begin to observe your own ambitions. Begin to
+
against today’s idea. Begin to observe your own ambitions. Begin to
 
observe how they are born of your fears. Begin to discern how simple
 
observe how they are born of your fears. Begin to discern how simple
 
it is to follow Knowledge. With simplicity comes power. You must
 
it is to follow Knowledge. With simplicity comes power. You must
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condemned. It should always be used for learning and preparation. In
 
condemned. It should always be used for learning and preparation. In
 
this way, you will not justify error, but use it for your own
 
this way, you will not justify error, but use it for your own
development and for the advancement of the world.<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 261</ref>
+
development and for the advancement of the world."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step261-I-must-learn-to-give-with-discernment.htm Step 261: I must learn to give with discernment.]</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Empathy==
 +
 
 +
"Look upon people in
 +
the world and see how homeless they appear to be. Remember
 +
how they are truly at home but do not realize it. Like yourself,
 +
they are asleep at home." <ref name="stk353">''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 353: [http://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step353-My-True-Home-is-in-God.htm My True Home is in God.]</ref>
  
 
==Fearlessness==
 
==Fearlessness==
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doubt cloud your mind. You need not try to feel the will of God. It is
 
doubt cloud your mind. You need not try to feel the will of God. It is
 
simply there. It only requires your attention for you to recognize it.
 
simply there. It only requires your attention for you to recognize it.
Therefore, practice deeply by simply being present to this experience."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 43</ref>
+
Therefore, practice deeply by simply being present to this experience."<ref>[https://stepstoknowledge.com/ ''Steps to Knowledge''], Step 43</ref>
  
 
==Fire==
 
==Fire==
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Knowledge is burning within you. Feel it burning. Upon
 
Knowledge is burning within you. Feel it burning. Upon
 
the hour feel it burning. Regardless of what you see and what you
 
the hour feel it burning. Regardless of what you see and what you
think, feel the fire of Knowledge burning.... In your two deeper practice periods re-enter the fire of Knowledge in
+
think, feel the fire of Knowledge burning." ... "In your two deeper practice periods re-enter the fire of Knowledge in
the sanctuary of Knowledge. Remember that this fir<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 335</ref>  
+
the sanctuary of Knowledge. Remember that this fire will comfort you and release you."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step335-The-fire-of-Knowledge-is-with-me-every-day.htm Step 335]</ref>
 +
 
 +
== Forgiveness ==
 +
"Think of those, one by one, for whom you feel unforgiveness—individuals that you have known personally and individuals that you have heard about or thought of, individuals that have been associated with failure. They will come to mind as you call upon them, for they are all waiting to be forgiven by you. Allow them now to arise one by one. As they do so, forgive yourself for failing to apply your Knowledge. Remind them as they appear to you that you are now learning to apply Knowledge and that you will not suffer on their behalf and they, therefore, need not suffer on yours."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 207</ref>  
  
 
==Freedom==
 
==Freedom==
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of your Knowledge. Remind yourself that you are free to do this.
 
of your Knowledge. Remind yourself that you are free to do this.
 
Regardless of fear or anxiety, regardless of any sense of guilt or shame,
 
Regardless of fear or anxiety, regardless of any sense of guilt or shame,
allow yourself to receive the source of your Knowledge."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 52</ref>  
+
allow yourself to receive the source of your Knowledge."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 52</ref>  
  
"Upon the hour repeat today's idea [FREEDOM IS WITH ME] and take a moment to feel
+
"Upon the hour repeat today's idea and take a moment to feel
 
that freedom is with you. As you come closer to freedom throughout
 
that freedom is with you. As you come closer to freedom throughout
 
the day, you will be able to recognize more and more clearly what
 
the day, you will be able to recognize more and more clearly what
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attempt to allow your mind to be still, which is the beginning of its
 
attempt to allow your mind to be still, which is the beginning of its
 
freedom. This practice in stillness will enable your mind to shake loose
 
freedom. This practice in stillness will enable your mind to shake loose
the chains that bind it."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 57</ref>
+
the chains that bind it."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step57-Freedom-is-with-me.htm Step 57:Freedom is with me.]</ref>
  
 
==Fulfillment==
 
==Fulfillment==
"Upon the hour today, repeat today’s idea ['I DO NOT KNOW WHAT FULFILLMENT IS'] and
+
"Upon the hour today, repeat today’s idea and
 
consider it seriously in view of yourself and the world around you.
 
consider it seriously in view of yourself and the world around you.
 
Today, in your two long practice periods, once again spend time
 
Today, in your two long practice periods, once again spend time
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for serious introspection. When you realize that what you thought you
 
for serious introspection. When you realize that what you thought you
 
knew is only a form of imagination, then you will realize your great
 
knew is only a form of imagination, then you will realize your great
need for Knowledge."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 97</ref>
+
need for Knowledge."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step97-I-do-not-know-what-fulfillment-is.htm Step 97: I do not know what fulfillment is.]</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
==Giving==
 
==Giving==
"Upon the hour, give yourself in each circumstance in which you find yourself. Do not come begging for ideas or information, but come to receive and come to give. As you give yourself, you will receive and in this you will learn the ancient law that to give is to receive. This must be born completely in your experience so that you may fully comprehend its meaning and its application in the world."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 148</ref>
+
"Upon the hour, give yourself in each circumstance in which you find yourself. Do not come begging for ideas or information, but come to receive and come to give. As you give yourself, you will receive and in this you will learn the ancient law that to give is to receive. This must be born completely in your experience so that you may fully comprehend its meaning and its application in the world."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step148-My-practice-is-my-gift-to-God.htm Step 148: My practice is my gift to God.]</ref>
  
 
"Your practice is a gift to the world, for it gives that which you are affirming within yourself.What you affirm within yourself you affirm for all individuals, in all circumstances, in all worlds and in all dimensions.Thus, you affirm the reality of Knowledge.Thus, you affirm your Ancient Home while you are here. Upon the hour, give to the world through your practice of giving. Remind yourself of this. In your two longer practice periods, give yourself completely into stillness and silence. Give of your heart and give of your mind. Give all that you realize you can give, for this is a gift to the world.Though you cannot as yet see the result, have confidence that this giving will extend beyond your own mind and will touch all minds in the universe, for all minds are truly joined in reality." <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 149</ref>
 
"Your practice is a gift to the world, for it gives that which you are affirming within yourself.What you affirm within yourself you affirm for all individuals, in all circumstances, in all worlds and in all dimensions.Thus, you affirm the reality of Knowledge.Thus, you affirm your Ancient Home while you are here. Upon the hour, give to the world through your practice of giving. Remind yourself of this. In your two longer practice periods, give yourself completely into stillness and silence. Give of your heart and give of your mind. Give all that you realize you can give, for this is a gift to the world.Though you cannot as yet see the result, have confidence that this giving will extend beyond your own mind and will touch all minds in the universe, for all minds are truly joined in reality." <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 149</ref>
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in the reclamation of Knowledge. Do not bear false witness against
 
in the reclamation of Knowledge. Do not bear false witness against
 
your feelings, but in spite of your feelings towards them, if there are ill
 
your feelings, but in spite of your feelings towards them, if there are ill
feelings, attempt also to recognize their service to you.... Allow your two practice periods to be quite focused. Concentrate. Use the power of your mind. Think of those individuals
+
feelings, attempt also to recognize their service to you." ... "Allow your two practice periods to be quite focused. Concentrate. Use the power of your mind. Think of those individuals
 
who have served you. If individuals come to mind whom you had not
 
who have served you. If individuals come to mind whom you had not
 
considered having served you, think how they have served you as well.
 
considered having served you, think how they have served you as well.
Let this day be a day of recognition. Let this be a day of restitution."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 86</ref>
+
Let this day be a day of recognition. Let this be a day of restitution."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step86-I-honor-those-who-have-given-to-me.htm Step 86: I honor those who have given to me.]</ref>
  
"Upon the hour, then, repeat this statement [I WILL REMEMBER THOSE
+
"Upon the hour, then, repeat this statement and take a
WHO HAVE GIVEN TO ME TODAY] and take a
 
 
moment to recall those who have given to you. Try to think very
 
moment to recall those who have given to you. Try to think very
 
carefully of the individuals who have given benefit to you, both by
 
carefully of the individuals who have given benefit to you, both by
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carefully and allow any individual who comes to mind to be the
 
carefully and allow any individual who comes to mind to be the
 
subject of your investigation. This is an active practice time in your
 
subject of your investigation. This is an active practice time in your
meditation periods."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 178</ref>
+
meditation periods."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step178-I-will-remember-those-who-have-given-to-me-today.htm Step 178: I will remember those who have given to me today.]</ref>
  
 
==Greatness==
 
==Greatness==
  
"Take this idea with you [that KNOWLEDGE IS MORE POWERFUL THAN I REALIZE] and practice it upon the hour. Keep it in mind throughout the day. In your two longer practice
+
"Take this idea with you and practice it upon the hour. Keep it in mind throughout the day. In your two longer practice
 
periods, allow yourself to experience the depth of Knowledge. Feel the
 
periods, allow yourself to experience the depth of Knowledge. Feel the
 
power of Knowledge. Strengthen your resolve to do so. Dedicate your
 
power of Knowledge. Strengthen your resolve to do so. Dedicate your
 
self-discipline, for here self-discipline is wisely employed. Knowledge is
 
self-discipline, for here self-discipline is wisely employed. Knowledge is
 
greater than you realize. Therefore, you must learn to receive its
 
greater than you realize. Therefore, you must learn to receive its
greatness."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 195</ref>
+
greatness."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step195-Knowledge-is-more-powerful-than-I-realize.htm Step 195: Knowledge is more powerful than I realize.]</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Group Mind==
 +
 
 +
"Become a force for good through your practice today and through your practice each day. Feel this goodness within yourself during your time of stillness. And during your hourly practices, remind yourself that you can become a force for good in the world. Do not look at your own personal abilities and shake your head, for it is not your personal abilities alone that will account for this greater force. It is your ability united with the power of Knowledge within you that will make this possible, and it is towards this that you are moving today.“<ref>''Steps To Knowledge Continuation Training'', Step 74: I seek to be a force for good in the world.</ref>
  
 
==Guidance==
 
==Guidance==
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quite real and meaningful to you. In this way, you will know what you
 
quite real and meaningful to you. In this way, you will know what you
 
think about how to find a way to Knowledge, and from this you will
 
think about how to find a way to Knowledge, and from this you will
realize that God knows the way to Knowledge."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 37</ref>
+
realize that God knows the way to Knowledge."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step37-There-is-a-way-to-Knowledge.htm Step 37: There is a way to Knowledge.]</ref>
  
 
==Honor==
 
==Honor==
"Upon the hour repeat ['I AM HONORED BY GOD'] and consider it
+
"Upon the hour repeat this statement and consider it
 
seriously. In your two practice periods, allow your mind once again to
 
seriously. In your two practice periods, allow your mind once again to
 
be still and receptive so that you may learn to receive the honor that
 
be still and receptive so that you may learn to receive the honor that
God has for you."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 103</ref>
+
God has for you."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step103-I-am-honored-by-God.htm Step 103: I am honored by God.]</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
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yourself, even if the content of your thoughts is disturbing. Even if the
 
yourself, even if the content of your thoughts is disturbing. Even if the
 
content of your thoughts is disagreeable, you must listen without
 
content of your thoughts is disagreeable, you must listen without
judgment to allow your mind to open."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 15</ref>
+
judgment to allow your mind to open."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 15</ref>
  
 
"Listen for deeper inclinations.
 
"Listen for deeper inclinations.
 
Again you must listen without judgment. You must not edit anything.
 
Again you must listen without judgment. You must not edit anything.
You must listen deeply so that you may learn to hear."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 16</ref>
+
You must listen deeply so that you may learn to hear."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 16</ref>
  
"In ... three 15-minute practice periods, practice
+
"Practice listening to the truth, trying to listen beyond the mind and emotions. Again do not be concerned if all you hear is the rushing about of your own thoughts. Remember, you are developing listening. That is the most important thing. Like exercising a muscle in the body, you are exercising the faculty of mind called listening. Therefore, this day practice listening, taking these practice periods to devote yourself so that you may feel the truth arising within you."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step17-Today-I-want-to-hear-the-truth.htm Step 17: Today I want to hear the truth.]</ref>
listening to the truth, trying to listen beyond the mind and emotions.
 
Again do not be concerned if all you hear is the rushing about of your
 
own thoughts.... [T]his day
 
practice listening, taking these practice periods to devote yourself so
 
that you may feel the truth arising within you<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 17</ref>
 
  
 
==Insight==
 
==Insight==
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without judgment and observe what you are doing in the world
 
without judgment and observe what you are doing in the world
 
without judgment. Then feel if anything needs to be done. View the world without judgment, for this
 
without judgment. Then feel if anything needs to be done. View the world without judgment, for this
will enable you to see the world as it really is."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 30</ref>
+
will enable you to see the world as it really is."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 30</ref>
  
 
==Intention==
 
==Intention==
  
"TODAY REMIND YOURSELF UPON THE HOUR of your intent to realize your purpose. Let today be a step in that direction—a step that will save you years and years of time, a step that will advance you forever towards your goal of Knowledge, for Knowledge is drawing you. In your two deeper practice periods, allow Knowledge to draw you. Feel the greater attraction within you, which you will naturally feel if you are not preoccupied with little things."<ref>[http://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step131-Today-I-will-seek-the-experience-of-true-purpose-in-life.htm ''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 131]</ref>
+
"TODAY REMIND YOURSELF UPON THE HOUR of your intent to realize your purpose. Let today be a step in that direction—a step that will save you years and years of time, a step that will advance you forever towards your goal of Knowledge, for Knowledge is drawing you. In your two deeper practice periods, allow Knowledge to draw you. Feel the greater attraction within you, which you will naturally feel if you are not preoccupied with little things."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [http://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step131-Today-I-will-seek-the-experience-of-true-purpose-in-life.htm Step 131: Today I will seek the experience of true purpose in life.]</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
==Intercession==
 
==Intercession==
"Think of someone in need and then give them a quality that you wish to receive yourself. Send that individual that quality. Send them love or strength or faith or encouragement or determination or [[surrender]] or acceptance or self-discipline—whatever they need to bring about resolution in their lives.”<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 121</ref>
+
"Think of someone in need and then give them a quality that you wish to receive yourself. Send that individual that quality. Send them love or strength or faith or encouragement or determination or [[surrender]] or acceptance or self-discipline—whatever they need to bring about resolution in their lives.”<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 121</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|right|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|right|The Great Practices]]
Line 323: Line 349:
 
"Upon each hour practice
 
"Upon each hour practice
 
listening to the world around you and the world within. Repeat the
 
listening to the world around you and the world within. Repeat the
affirmation [TODAY I WILL LEARN TO LISTEN TO LIFE] and then practice this. It only takes a moment."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 62</ref>
+
affirmation and then practice this. It only takes a moment."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step62-Today-I-will-learn-to-listen-to-life.htm Step 62: Today I will learn to listen to life.]</ref>
  
 
==Love==
 
==Love==
 
"Each hour today as you look upon the world, recognize that
 
"Each hour today as you look upon the world, recognize that
love within you will speak for itself."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 61</ref>
+
love within you will speak for itself."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 61</ref>
 +
 
 +
"Love is flowing from you, and today you can attempt to experience this and to release those things that obstruct it." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 206</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 +
 
==Objectivity==
 
==Objectivity==
 +
 +
"Look at your ideas. Don’t simply be swayed by them. Look at your beliefs. Don’t simply follow or deny them. Learn this objectivity, and you will learn to see with Knowledge, for Knowledge looks on all things mental and physical with equanimity." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 202</ref>
 +
 +
"Use this as a guidepost: “I will look, but I will not judge.” <ref name="stk35"/>
 +
 
"Today ask yourself what you really know and distinguish
 
"Today ask yourself what you really know and distinguish
 
what you know from what you think or hope for or want for
 
what you know from what you think or hope for or want for
Line 336: Line 370:
 
what you cherish and what you value. Distinguish this question from
 
what you cherish and what you value. Distinguish this question from
 
all such orientations to the very best of your ability and ask yourself,
 
all such orientations to the very best of your ability and ask yourself,
'What do I really know?'"<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 3</ref>
+
'What do I really know?'"<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 3</ref>
  
"Today in ... three brief practice periods, in which you
+
In "three brief practice periods, in which you
 
devote your total attention to examining your assumptions, think
 
devote your total attention to examining your assumptions, think
 
about the things you really think you know, including things that you
 
about the things you really think you know, including things that you
have not thought to question before—things that you think you know."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 4</ref>
+
have not thought to question before—things that you think you know."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 4</ref>
  
 
"Think
 
"Think
about this statement [I BELIEVE WHAT I WANT TO BELIEVE]. Examine what you believe and then examine
+
about this statement. Examine what you believe and then examine
what you want."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 5</ref>
+
what you want."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step5-I-believe-what-I-want-to-believe.htm Step 5: I believe what I want to believe.]</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Participation==
 +
 
 +
"Allow no
 +
thoughts of fear, anxiety or self-doubt to dissuade you from
 +
your greater activity. Your ability to practice regardless of your
 +
emotional state demonstrates that the presence of Knowledge is
 +
within you, for Knowledge is beyond all emotional states and
 +
is unfettered by them. If you wish to see the stars, you must
 +
look beyond the clouds. What are your fears but clouds that
 +
pass through your mind? They only change the character of
 +
the surface of your mind, but the depth of your mind remains
 +
unchanged forever." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 42</ref>
 +
 
 +
"Do not let any self-doubt dissuade you in your
 +
undertaking, for you need only participate to receive the greatest
 +
gift that life can give. Review the past week and think now of what has
 +
transpired in your preparation thus far. Observe the development
 +
that has occurred within you these past few months—the
 +
growing sense of presence, the growing sense of inner certainty,
 +
the growing sense of inner power" <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step182-Review.htm Step 182: Review]</ref>
  
 
==Patience==
 
==Patience==
"Practice ... affirming that you will learn to be
+
"Practice each hour today affirming that you will learn to be
 
patient and that you will become observant of your life rather than
 
patient and that you will become observant of your life rather than
 
critical of your life. Affirm that you will become objective about your
 
critical of your life. Affirm that you will become objective about your
 
abilities and your circumstances so that you may apply a greater
 
abilities and your circumstances so that you may apply a greater
certainty to them."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 59</ref>
+
certainty to them."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step59-Today-I-will-learn-patience.htm Step 59: Today I will learn patience.]</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
Line 361: Line 416:
  
 
==Penetration==
 
==Penetration==
"Concentrate in
+
"Concentrate in meditation upon feeling the presence of your Spiritual Teachers. This is not something you have to try to do. It simply means relaxing, breathing and allowing your mind to open."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 36</ref>
meditation upon feeling the presence of your Spiritual Teachers. This is
+
 
not something you have to try to do. It simply means relaxing,
+
==Perseverance==
breathing and allowing your mind to open."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 36</ref>
+
 
 +
"Practice in stillness, and do not be discouraged if it is difficult at first. Simply practice and you will proceed." <ref name="stk18"/>
  
 
==Perspective==
 
==Perspective==
Line 373: Line 429:
 
premature and rarely reflect the truth in any way. They are usually a
 
premature and rarely reflect the truth in any way. They are usually a
 
form of self-discouragement and thus serve no worthy purpose at all.
 
form of self-discouragement and thus serve no worthy purpose at all.
After declaring ['I AM A BEGINNING STUDENT OF KNOWLEDGE'] to yourself and reminding
+
After declaring today's idea to yourself and reminding
 
yourself not to judge, practice 15 minutes of inner stillness in your two
 
yourself not to judge, practice 15 minutes of inner stillness in your two
 
practice periods. Attempt to feel the truth within you. Focus your
 
practice periods. Attempt to feel the truth within you. Focus your
 
mind on one point, either a physical point or an imaginary point if
 
mind on one point, either a physical point or an imaginary point if
 
necessary. Let everything settle down inside. Let yourself become as
 
necessary. Let everything settle down inside. Let yourself become as
quiet as possible, and do not be discouraged if there is difficulty.' <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 34</ref>
+
quiet as possible, and do not be discouraged if there is difficulty.' <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step34-I-am-a-beginning-student-of-Knowledge.htm Step 34: I am a beginning student of Knowledge.]</ref>
  
 
==Poise==
 
==Poise==
Line 386: Line 442:
 
are, not just physically or geographically, but where you are in terms of
 
are, not just physically or geographically, but where you are in terms of
 
your awareness of yourself in the world. Think very, very carefully. Do
 
your awareness of yourself in the world. Think very, very carefully. Do
not allow your mind to distract you from this orientation."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 2</ref>
+
not allow your mind to distract you from this orientation."<ref>[https://stepstoknowledge.com/ ''Steps to Knowledge''], Step 2</ref>
  
 
==Potency==
 
==Potency==
Line 393: Line 449:
 
see and those whom you cannot see. In your deeper practices allow
 
see and those whom you cannot see. In your deeper practices allow
 
your own self-discipline, which prepares you to enter into stillness and
 
your own self-discipline, which prepares you to enter into stillness and
peace, to be supplemented as well."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 233</ref>   
+
peace, to be supplemented as well."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 233</ref>   
 +
 
 +
 
 +
== Power ==
 +
 
 +
"In your deeper practices in stillness, receive the benefit of all who practice with you. Remind yourself that you are not alone and that their rewards are given to you as your rewards are given to them. Thus, you share in your accomplishments together. The power of your undertaking is so tremendously supported by the endeavor and the giving of others that it far exceeds your own abilities. When this is realized, it will give you all manner of encouragement and will banish forever the idea that you are inadequate to the tasks that are given to you. For your giving is supplemented by the giving of others, and this represents the Will of God in the universe."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 170</ref>
  
 
==Power of God==
 
==Power of God==
Line 403: Line 464:
 
Greater Plan. Allow yourself, then, to enter into practice with
 
Greater Plan. Allow yourself, then, to enter into practice with
 
dedication, with simplicity and with humility so that you may feel the
 
dedication, with simplicity and with humility so that you may feel the
power of God."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 39</ref>
+
power of God."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 39</ref>
  
 
"You do not
 
"You do not
 
need to conjure up magical images, for this power is something that
 
need to conjure up magical images, for this power is something that
you can feel, for it is everywhere."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 40</ref>
+
you can feel, for it is everywhere."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 40</ref>
  
 
"Do not seek for answers from God. You need not speak at all but
 
"Do not seek for answers from God. You need not speak at all but
Line 414: Line 475:
 
can come easily to you to guide you, comfort you and correct you
 
can come easily to you to guide you, comfort you and correct you
 
when necessary. But first you must feel the power of God, and in this
 
when necessary. But first you must feel the power of God, and in this
you will find your own strength."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 41</ref>
+
you will find your own strength."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 41</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 +
 
==Presence==
 
==Presence==
 
"Feel the presence of your teachers today who abide with
 
"Feel the presence of your teachers today who abide with
Line 422: Line 484:
 
Feel their presence today and you will feel your own presence, for you
 
Feel their presence today and you will feel your own presence, for you
 
are joined together in this presence that you feel. Remember that you
 
are joined together in this presence that you feel. Remember that you
are not alone, and you will not become isolated in your own thoughts.... Allow yourself to
+
are not alone, and you will not become isolated in your own thoughts."<ref name="stk333"/>
 +
 
 +
"Allow yourself to
 
experience the presence of love, which is the presence of Knowledge,
 
experience the presence of love, which is the presence of Knowledge,
 
which is the presence of Wisdom, which is the presence of certainty,
 
which is the presence of Wisdom, which is the presence of certainty,
Line 429: Line 493:
 
into the proximity and into the experience of this presence in your
 
into the proximity and into the experience of this presence in your
 
deeper meditations. Do not neglect this, for here you will experience
 
deeper meditations. Do not neglect this, for here you will experience
self-love, self-worth and true inclusion in life.Take this presence with
+
self-love, self-worth and true inclusion in life. Take this presence with
 
you today and receive this presence in your deeper meditations, and
 
you today and receive this presence in your deeper meditations, and
you will know that the presence is with you every day."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 333</ref>   
+
you will know that the presence is with you every day."<ref name="stk333">''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step333-There-is-a-presence-with-me-I-can-feel-it.htm Step 333: There is a presence with me. I can feel it.]</ref>   
  
 
"Practice remembering this upon the hour by once again
 
"Practice remembering this upon the hour by once again
Line 449: Line 513:
 
see them being consumed, and you will feel your mind being bathed
 
see them being consumed, and you will feel your mind being bathed
 
and cleansed in the loving fire of Knowledge. The presence is with you
 
and cleansed in the loving fire of Knowledge. The presence is with you
every day. The fire of Knowledge is with you every day."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 334</ref>
+
every day. The fire of Knowledge is with you every day."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 334</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
Line 466: Line 530:
 
"Upon the hour remind yourself not to define your purpose,
 
"Upon the hour remind yourself not to define your purpose,
 
and begin to think of the cost of doing so in terms of your own past
 
and begin to think of the cost of doing so in terms of your own past
experience."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 134</ref>
+
experience."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 134</ref>
  
 
"Dwell upon the idea
 
"Dwell upon the idea
Line 475: Line 539:
 
its possibility. In your two practice periods, you will have an
 
its possibility. In your two practice periods, you will have an
 
opportunity then to consider this, but beware—make no conclusions
 
opportunity then to consider this, but beware—make no conclusions
yet."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 33</ref>
+
yet."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 33</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
==Receiving==
 
==Receiving==
  
"You are learning now to receive. The world blesses you as you learn to receive, for Knowledge will flow into you as you become an open receptacle for Knowledge. And you will draw that which is life into yourself, for life is always attracted to those who give. Understand this in its full depth today as you remind yourself upon the hour that life gives to you as you are still. In your two meditation practices, enter stillness once again and feel life being drawn into you. This is a natural attraction. As your giving and stillness become greater, you will feel life being drawn into you, for you will in time become a source of nourishment for life."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 155</ref>
+
"You are learning now to receive. The world blesses you as you learn to receive, for Knowledge will flow into you as you become an open receptacle for Knowledge. And you will draw that which is life into yourself, for life is always attracted to those who give. Understand this in its full depth today as you remind yourself upon the hour that life gives to you as you are still. In your two meditation practices, enter stillness once again and feel life being drawn into you. This is a natural attraction. As your giving and stillness become greater, you will feel life being drawn into you, for you will in time become a source of nourishment for life."<ref>[http://stepstoknowledge.com/ ''Steps to Knowledge''], Step 155</ref>
  
==Redemption==
+
==Reflection==
  
"Feel your desire to see a different
+
"Practice today not making any conclusions, but simply recognize the line of development and take note of the progress that you have made thus far." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step21-Review.htm Step 21: Review]</ref>
world. Look at the world without judgment and say to yourself, 'I
+
 
wish to see a different world.' Do this every hour. Try not to miss any
+
"Merely look and see what was instructed, what you did and what the result was." <ref name="stk35">''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 35</ref>
practice sessions. Practice no matter how you feel, no matter what is
+
 
occurring."<ref name="stk31">''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 31</ref>
+
"Look at specific errors that you have made that have been very painful. Do not try to dismiss the pain of them, but see how in your current circumstances in life you can use them for your own benefit." <ref name="stk26">''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 26</ref>
  
==Resolution==
+
"Use these practice periods for this introspective process and when you are done, do not speak of the results to any other person, but allow the investigation to continue naturally, as it naturally will." <ref name="stk26"/>
"What are the behaviors that you engage in now that are not in keeping with your values or your sense of integrity?  Write these down and really focus upon them.  And see what kind of behaviors or activities can replace these things that would be in keeping with your values and sense of integrity." <ref>Freedom from Addiction and Obsession (January 23, 2009)</ref>
 
  
 
==Release==
 
==Release==
Line 499: Line 562:
 
that cross your mind like clouds. Beyond the clouds of your mind is
 
that cross your mind like clouds. Beyond the clouds of your mind is
 
the great universe of Knowledge. Therefore, do not let the clouds
 
the great universe of Knowledge. Therefore, do not let the clouds
obstruct your view of the stars beyond."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 44</ref>
+
obstruct your view of the stars beyond."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 44</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Resolution==
 +
"What are the behaviors that you engage in now that are not in keeping with your values or your sense of integrity?  Write these down and really focus upon them.  And see what kind of behaviors or activities can replace these things that would be in keeping with your values and sense of integrity." <ref>[https://www.newmessage.org/the-message/other-revelations/freedom-from-addiction-and-obsession Freedom from Addiction and Obsession] (January 23, 2009)</ref>
 +
 
 +
==Restraint==
 +
 
 +
"Restrain those forms of thinking and behavior that betray your Knowledge so that you may enter Knowledge in stillness and in peace." <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 220</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
Line 506: Line 576:
 
"Each hour you will
 
"Each hour you will
 
need to check in to see your thoughts and to observe your current
 
need to check in to see your thoughts and to observe your current
behavior.... Each practice period need only take several minutes but
+
behavior." ... "Each practice period need only take several minutes but
 
should be given your full attention. You need not close your eyes to do
 
should be given your full attention. You need not close your eyes to do
 
this, though if it is appropriate, it will be helpful. You may practice in
 
this, though if it is appropriate, it will be helpful. You may practice in
Line 517: Line 587:
 
made, make them as expediently as possible. Allow your inner guidance
 
made, make them as expediently as possible. Allow your inner guidance
 
to influence you, which it will do if you are not governed by impulses,
 
to influence you, which it will do if you are not governed by impulses,
fear or ambition. Observe yourself this day."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 29</ref>
+
fear or ambition. Observe yourself this day."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step29-I-will-observe-myself-today-to-learn-of-Knowledge.htm Step 29:I will observe myself today to learn of Knowledge.]</ref>
  
 
==Self-trust==
 
==Self-trust==
Line 527: Line 597:
 
power and seeking certainty. These you will experience because these
 
power and seeking certainty. These you will experience because these
 
emanate from the essence of Knowledge within you. Let this day be a
 
emanate from the essence of Knowledge within you. Let this day be a
day of self-trust and therefore a day of self-love."<ref name="stk316">''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 316</ref>
+
day of self-trust and therefore a day of self-love."<ref name="stk316">''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 316</ref>
  
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
 
[[File:NMFG Logo PRACTICE.jpg|left|The Great Practices]]
Line 538: Line 608:
 
obvious will arise, and you will learn what to do step by step. Thus it is
 
obvious will arise, and you will learn what to do step by step. Thus it is
 
that you will realize there is a simple answer for all problems that face
 
that you will realize there is a simple answer for all problems that face
you."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 267</ref>
+
you."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 267</ref>
  
 
==Strength==
 
==Strength==
Line 566: Line 636:
 
instruction and your resistance, if it is there, to the presence of true
 
instruction and your resistance, if it is there, to the presence of true
 
instruction which is available to you now."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 47</ref>
 
instruction which is available to you now."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 47</ref>
 +
 +
==Transcendence==
 +
"Feel your desire to see a different
 +
world. Look at the world without judgment and say to yourself, 'I
 +
wish to see a different world.' Do this every hour. Try not to miss any practice sessions. Practice  no matter how you feel, no matter what is
 +
occurring."<ref name="stk31">''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step31-I-wish-to-see-a-world-I-have-never-seen-before.htm Step 31: I wish to see a world I have never seen before.]</ref>
  
 
==Truth==
 
==Truth==
"In ... two longer practice periods, each of a 30-minute
+
In "two longer practice periods, each of a 30-minute
 
duration, sit quietly with your eyes closed, breathing deeply and  
 
duration, sit quietly with your eyes closed, breathing deeply and  
 
regularly, attempting to feel the truth beyond the constant restlessness
 
regularly, attempting to feel the truth beyond the constant restlessness
Line 577: Line 653:
 
that you will look at it a little later, but that right now you are taking a
 
that you will look at it a little later, but that right now you are taking a
 
small vacation from your mind. Practice feeling the truth. Do not
 
small vacation from your mind. Practice feeling the truth. Do not
think the truth. Practice feeling the truth."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 32</ref>
+
think the truth. Practice feeling the truth."<ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', [https://stepstoknowledge.com/steps/Step32-The-truth-is-with-me-I-can-feel-it.htm Step 32: The truth is with me. I can feel it.]</ref>
 +
 
 +
== Union ==
 +
 
 +
Remember'''''"The world is within me. This I know."'''''…"In your deeper meditations, once again use the word RAHN to take you deeper into the depth of Knowledge. Repeat the idea at the beginning of your practice and then, upon each exhale, repeat the word RAHN quietly to yourself. Allow this to center your mind. Allow this to connect you with the depth of Knowledge. Here you go deeper than you have gone before. In this, you will find all that you seek, and there will be no confusion about the world."<ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 169</ref>
  
 
==Vision==
 
==Vision==
"Today upon each hour, feel your desire to see a different
+
"Look about in the world and see how few people are aware of life around them, how preoccupied they are with their individual endeavors and personal concerns or conflicts. See how much they are missing and how much you are missing. Give this your attention today in addition to your one practice in stillness and in your hourly practice in awareness and discernment."<ref>''Steps To Knowledge Continuation Training'', Step 15: Let me look towards the Greater Community to understand where my life is going.</ref>
world. Look at the world without judgment and say to yourself, 'I
+
 
wish to see a different world.' Do this every hour. Try not to miss any
+
==Wisdom==
practice sessions. Practice no matter how you feel, no matter what is
+
 
occurring.... Practice this day looking
+
"Look and see how the truth has served you. Look at experiences
without judgment and feeling as you look."<ref name="stk31"/>
+
that were happy. Look at experiences that were painful.
 +
Particularly in painful experiences, look at how the truth has
 +
served you. Look openly. Do not defend a former position if
 +
you are tempted to do so. If pain still exists from a loss of an
 +
earlier time, accept that pain and its discouragement, but try to
 +
look and see how you were truly served by that loss." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 27</ref>
  
 
==Worth==
 
==Worth==
Line 593: Line 678:
 
your great worthiness. You are worthy not for what you have done in
 
your great worthiness. You are worthy not for what you have done in
 
the world. You are worthy for who you are, where you have come
 
the world. You are worthy for who you are, where you have come
from and where you are going." <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 24</ref>
+
from and where you are going." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 24</ref>
  
 
"Practice feeling this relationship.
 
"Practice feeling this relationship.
Line 601: Line 686:
 
need to misrepresent yourself or your experience. To share a great love
 
need to misrepresent yourself or your experience. To share a great love
 
honestly means you must be experiencing it. It is this experience that
 
honestly means you must be experiencing it. It is this experience that
we wish to give you today." <ref>''[[Steps to Knowledge]]'', Step 25</ref>
+
we wish to give you today." <ref>''Steps to Knowledge'', Step 25</ref>
  
 
[[File:Steps-to-knowledge.jpg|right|The Great Practices]]
 
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==See also==
 
==See also==
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[[Advocacy]]
 
[[Advocacy]]
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[[Category:practice]]

Latest revision as of 15:26, 5 July 2023

"I gain strength from all who practice with me."[1]

"All things that are most highly valued in human life— love, patience, devotion, tolerance, forgiveness, true accomplishment, courage and faith—all naturally arise from Knowledge, for Knowledge is their source. They are but the outward expression of a mind that is serving Knowledge. Thus, they need not be forced upon oneself through arduous self-discipline. They arise naturally, for the mind serving Knowledge can only exemplify its own greatness and its own capabilities. What requires self-discipline is to reorient your focus, to reorient your devotion and to reorient your service. You either serve Knowledge or you serve the substitutes for Knowledge, for in all things you must serve." [2]

"Everyday is a practice where you either move forward, stay where you are or fall back in increments and sometimes to larger degrees. Time is both a gift and a responsibility here, never to be wasted for long." [3]

Acceptance

“I accept my Knowledge as a gift from God. I accept my Teachers as my elder brothers and sisters. I accept my world as a place where Knowledge can be reclaimed and contributed. I accept my past as a demonstration of life without Knowledge. I accept the miracles of my life as a demonstration of the presence of Knowledge and I give myself now to cultivate that which is of the greatest good within myself to be given to the world.”[4]

Accountability

"Review the past week of practice, rereading all of the instructions and with each step reviewing what has transpired in your times of practice. Be sure to ask yourself how deeply you were involved in practice—how much you wanted to search and investigate, how carefully you examined your own experience and to what extent you felt motivated to penetrate whatever barriers that might exist." [4]

Application of the mind

"Our practices today will be engaging the mind in exploration and analysis. This is a useful application of your mind. Think about this message and all of your ideas surrounding it, and you will begin to understand your own current belief system. You will be able to understand this objectively. Then, you will be able to work with it, for the mind is fixed in a certain structure until it is utilized for other purposes. Do not accept this structure as your reality, for the outward manifestation of your mind is a structure that you have imposed upon it. Yet, its real inward harmony and nature seek only to be expressed. To enable this to happen you must have an adequate structure in the mind to enable the mind to express itself in the physical world without restraint or distortion. It is towards this, then, that We will work today."[5]

Awakening

"Look upon people in the world and see how homeless they appear to be. Remember how they are truly at home but do not realize it. Like yourself, they are asleep at home. You are learning now to awaken from your sleep, and you are realizing that you are still at home because your Spiritual Family is with you, Knowledge is with you and your Teachers are with you." [6]

Awareness

"In stillness, then, practice twice today feeling the power of God. Do not seek for answers from God. You need not speak at all but only be present, for as you learn to be in relationship with that which is the source of all your relationships, the information that you need can come easily to you to guide you, comfort you and correct you when necessary. But first you must feel the power of God, and in this you will find your own strength."[7]

"Be attentive upon the hour today and have confidence that being attentive will yield its own true results for you." ... "In your deeper meditation practices be attentive, be present and give yourself in stillness within the sanctuary of Knowledge. You need only be attentive. Judgment is not necessary."[8]

The Great Practices

Beginner's mind

"Three times today spend 10 minute thinking about what Knowledge is, not merely applying your own ideas, not merely applying your past understanding, but thinking about what Knowledge really is."[9]

Certainty

"Allow your confidence to dispel fear, doubt and anxiety. Support your efforts today, for they require your support on behalf of a greater certainty that you are now learning to receive."[10]

"Spend two longer periods of 15 to 20 minutes in considering what your true foundation may be. Think of all your ideas about this."[11]

"Practice feeling the presence of God, silently, in stillness. Not thinking about God, not speculating, not wondering, not doubting, but simply feeling."[12]

Clarity

"Return to being with Knowledge, in humility and simplicity, in stillness and in silence. Breathe Knowledge in. Allow Knowledge to enter and fill your body. Allow yourself to be immersed in Knowledge and all things will become clear, for with Knowledge all things become clear and all questions disappear."[13]

Compassion

"The failures of others will engender your compassion." [14]

Competency

"Practice in stillness feeling the power of Knowledge. Do not ask questions. That is not necessary now. Do not argue with yourself about the reality of your pursuit, for that is wasteful and meaningless. You cannot know until you receive, and to receive you must trust your inclination to know. Today be with Knowledge. In your practice periods, let nothing dissuade you. You need only relax and be present."[15]

Confirmation

"Silently and in stillness, as you sink into the depths of Knowledge, receive the peace and the confirmation that are your birthright."[16]

The Great Practices

Congruence

"Give your full attention to feeling the truth arising within yourself. Practice in stillness, and do not be discouraged if it is difficult at first. Simply practice and you will proceed. Throughout the day as well, without doubt or hesitation, pursue your true goal in life. From this true goal will come all of the important things that you will need to accomplish and the great power of vision and discernment that will allow you to find those individuals that you have come into the world to find."[17]

The Great Practices

Consistency

"PRACTICE CONSISTENTLY. Practice upon the hour, reminding yourself to be consistent. In your two meditations, practice keeping your mind steady and focused, allowing it to settle into itself so that it may experience its own nature. Do not repress what is occurring within you. Do not control what is occurring without. Simply maintain consistency, and all things will find a right balance and relationship to this."[18]

Contribution

"Feel your desire to contribute to others.You do not need now to determine what you wish to contribute."[19]

Conviction

"Sit quietly with your eyes closed, breathing deeply and regularly, attempting to feel the truth beyond the constant restlessness of your mind. Use your breath to take you deeper, for your breathing will always take you beyond your thoughts if you adhere yourself to it conscientiously. Let nothing distract or dissuade you. If something permeates your mind and you have difficulty releasing it, tell yourself that you will look at it a little later, but that right now you are taking a small vacation from your mind. Practice feeling the truth. Do not think the truth. Practice feeling the truth."[20]

Creativity

"In your two meditation practices today, attempt to feel the presence of that true assistance. In stillness and in silence, feel this within your life and around you. These meditation practices will begin to open a greater sensitivity within you, a whole new sense. You will begin to discern things that are present, even though you cannot see them. You will be able to respond to ideas and information, even though you cannot hear the source of the message yet. This is the actual process in creative thinking, for people receive ideas; they do not create them. You are part of a greater life. Your personal life is the vehicle for its expression. Your individuality, then, becomes more highly cultivated and more joyful, a prison no longer for you, but the form of your joyful expression. True assistance is available to you. Practice this day feeling its abiding presence in your life."[21]

Decision making

"In your two longer meditation practices today, using the word RAHN, enter deeply into Knowledge. Enter deeply into the presence of life. Enter deeply into this experience. Continue to direct your mind towards this accomplishment. Continue to set aside anything that affects you or holds you back. In this way, you train the mind and prepare it as well for that which is most natural to it to occur. Follow Knowledge this day. If Knowledge indicates something and you are very certain about this, follow it and be observant. See what happens and try to learn to distinguish Knowledge from your impulses, your wishes, your fears and your avoidances."[22]

The Great Practices

Detached observation

"Practice looking upon one simple mundane object. Do not take your eyes off of that object, but look and practice looking very conscientiously. You are not trying to see anything. You are simply looking with an open mind. When the mind is open, it experiences its own depth, and it experiences the depth of what it is perceiving. Choose one simple object that has very little meaning for you and gaze upon it twice today for at least 15 minutes. Allow your mind to become very still. Breathe deeply and regularly as you gaze upon this object. Allow your mind to settle down into itself.[23]

Determination

"Try to see in your observations of others how captivating the world is and how captivating the mind is. Ultimately, the only thing that can keep you from Knowledge is the mind. It may seem like the world is dominating you, but in reality it is the mind. Observe this. You will not have to look far. It is all around you. You can look at your own experience to see how close at hand this is and how important it is for you to be present wherever you are and with whatever you are doing."[24]

"Practice feeling the strength of your own will. Do not let fear and doubt cloud your mind. You need not try to feel the will of God. It is simply there. It only requires your attention for you to recognize it. Therefore, practice deeply by simply being present to this experience."[25]

Direction

"Feel this love, support and direction. It is a feeling. It is not ideas. It is a feeling. It is something you must feel. Love is something you must feel to know. You are indeed loved, surrounded and supported by your Teachers, and you are very worthy of their great gift to you.[26]

The Great Practices

Discernment

"In your longer practice periods, engage yourself once again with attempting to comprehend today’s lesson. Do not be happy with false assumptions. Consider all thoughts and feelings in favor of or against today’s idea. Begin to observe your own ambitions. Begin to observe how they are born of your fears. Begin to discern how simple it is to follow Knowledge. With simplicity comes power. You must learn discernment. Learning this will take time. In this, you learn to utilize all experiences for good, for no experience should be condemned. It should always be used for learning and preparation. In this way, you will not justify error, but use it for your own development and for the advancement of the world."[27]

Empathy

"Look upon people in the world and see how homeless they appear to be. Remember how they are truly at home but do not realize it. Like yourself, they are asleep at home." [6]

Fearlessness

"In silent meditation, practice feeling the strength of your own will. Do not let fear and doubt cloud your mind. You need not try to feel the will of God. It is simply there. It only requires your attention for you to recognize it. Therefore, practice deeply by simply being present to this experience."[28]

Fire

"Wherever you go, whatever you do, the fire of Knowledge is burning within you. Feel it burning. Upon the hour feel it burning. Regardless of what you see and what you think, feel the fire of Knowledge burning." ... "In your two deeper practice periods re-enter the fire of Knowledge in the sanctuary of Knowledge. Remember that this fire will comfort you and release you."[29]

Forgiveness

"Think of those, one by one, for whom you feel unforgiveness—individuals that you have known personally and individuals that you have heard about or thought of, individuals that have been associated with failure. They will come to mind as you call upon them, for they are all waiting to be forgiven by you. Allow them now to arise one by one. As they do so, forgive yourself for failing to apply your Knowledge. Remind them as they appear to you that you are now learning to apply Knowledge and that you will not suffer on their behalf and they, therefore, need not suffer on yours."[30]

Freedom

"Receive the source of your Knowledge. Remind yourself that you are free to do this. Regardless of fear or anxiety, regardless of any sense of guilt or shame, allow yourself to receive the source of your Knowledge."[31]

"Upon the hour repeat today's idea and take a moment to feel that freedom is with you. As you come closer to freedom throughout the day, you will be able to recognize more and more clearly what holds you back. You will realize that it is but your adherence to your own thoughts that holds you back. It is your interest in your own imagination that holds you back. This will lighten your burden, and you will realize that a true choice is available. This realization will give you the strength to come to freedom today. In your two deep meditation practices, repeat today’s idea and attempt to allow your mind to be still, which is the beginning of its freedom. This practice in stillness will enable your mind to shake loose the chains that bind it."[32]

Fulfillment

"Upon the hour today, repeat today’s idea and consider it seriously in view of yourself and the world around you. Today, in your two long practice periods, once again spend time seriously considering this idea. Remember to think of your own life in these practice periods and apply today’s idea to the plans that you are aware of concerning your own fulfillment. These thinking meditations require mental work. Here you will not be still. You will be investigating. You will be exploring. You will be actively using your mind to penetrate things that you recognize exist there. This is a time for serious introspection. When you realize that what you thought you knew is only a form of imagination, then you will realize your great need for Knowledge."[33]

The Great Practices

Giving

"Upon the hour, give yourself in each circumstance in which you find yourself. Do not come begging for ideas or information, but come to receive and come to give. As you give yourself, you will receive and in this you will learn the ancient law that to give is to receive. This must be born completely in your experience so that you may fully comprehend its meaning and its application in the world."[34]

"Your practice is a gift to the world, for it gives that which you are affirming within yourself.What you affirm within yourself you affirm for all individuals, in all circumstances, in all worlds and in all dimensions.Thus, you affirm the reality of Knowledge.Thus, you affirm your Ancient Home while you are here. Upon the hour, give to the world through your practice of giving. Remind yourself of this. In your two longer practice periods, give yourself completely into stillness and silence. Give of your heart and give of your mind. Give all that you realize you can give, for this is a gift to the world.Though you cannot as yet see the result, have confidence that this giving will extend beyond your own mind and will touch all minds in the universe, for all minds are truly joined in reality." [35]

Gratitude

"Today in your two deep practice periods, you are asked to think of those people who have given to you, to think of them and nothing else during your period of practice. You are asked to consider very deeply what they have done for you. With those with whom you are angry and upset, try to see how they, too, have given service to you in the reclamation of Knowledge. Do not bear false witness against your feelings, but in spite of your feelings towards them, if there are ill feelings, attempt also to recognize their service to you." ... "Allow your two practice periods to be quite focused. Concentrate. Use the power of your mind. Think of those individuals who have served you. If individuals come to mind whom you had not considered having served you, think how they have served you as well. Let this day be a day of recognition. Let this be a day of restitution."[36]

"Upon the hour, then, repeat this statement and take a moment to recall those who have given to you. Try to think very carefully of the individuals who have given benefit to you, both by demonstrating their Wisdom and their error. Think of those who have illustrated the way to go and the way not to go. As you inquire further into this in your two longer practice periods today, try to think more carefully and allow any individual who comes to mind to be the subject of your investigation. This is an active practice time in your meditation periods."[37]

Greatness

"Take this idea with you and practice it upon the hour. Keep it in mind throughout the day. In your two longer practice periods, allow yourself to experience the depth of Knowledge. Feel the power of Knowledge. Strengthen your resolve to do so. Dedicate your self-discipline, for here self-discipline is wisely employed. Knowledge is greater than you realize. Therefore, you must learn to receive its greatness."[38]

Group Mind

"Become a force for good through your practice today and through your practice each day. Feel this goodness within yourself during your time of stillness. And during your hourly practices, remind yourself that you can become a force for good in the world. Do not look at your own personal abilities and shake your head, for it is not your personal abilities alone that will account for this greater force. It is your ability united with the power of Knowledge within you that will make this possible, and it is towards this that you are moving today.“[39]

Guidance

"Spend at least 15 minutes thinking of all the ways to gain access to Knowledge. Write down on a piece of paper all the ways to get to Knowledge. Spend both practice periods doing this and exhaust all the possibilities that you can think of. Try to be very specific. Use your imagination, but chart out routes that appear to be quite real and meaningful to you. In this way, you will know what you think about how to find a way to Knowledge, and from this you will realize that God knows the way to Knowledge."[40]

Honor

"Upon the hour repeat this statement and consider it seriously. In your two practice periods, allow your mind once again to be still and receptive so that you may learn to receive the honor that God has for you."[41]

The Great Practices

Inner listening

"Listen without judgment of yourself, even if the content of your thoughts is disturbing. Even if the content of your thoughts is disagreeable, you must listen without judgment to allow your mind to open."[42]

"Listen for deeper inclinations. Again you must listen without judgment. You must not edit anything. You must listen deeply so that you may learn to hear."[43]

"Practice listening to the truth, trying to listen beyond the mind and emotions. Again do not be concerned if all you hear is the rushing about of your own thoughts. Remember, you are developing listening. That is the most important thing. Like exercising a muscle in the body, you are exercising the faculty of mind called listening. Therefore, this day practice listening, taking these practice periods to devote yourself so that you may feel the truth arising within you."[44]

Insight

"Observe your world without judgment and observe what you are doing in the world without judgment. Then feel if anything needs to be done. View the world without judgment, for this will enable you to see the world as it really is."[45]

Intention

"TODAY REMIND YOURSELF UPON THE HOUR of your intent to realize your purpose. Let today be a step in that direction—a step that will save you years and years of time, a step that will advance you forever towards your goal of Knowledge, for Knowledge is drawing you. In your two deeper practice periods, allow Knowledge to draw you. Feel the greater attraction within you, which you will naturally feel if you are not preoccupied with little things."[46]

The Great Practices

Intercession

"Think of someone in need and then give them a quality that you wish to receive yourself. Send that individual that quality. Send them love or strength or faith or encouragement or determination or surrender or acceptance or self-discipline—whatever they need to bring about resolution in their lives.”[47]

The Great Practices

Listening to the world

"Upon each hour practice listening to the world around you and the world within. Repeat the affirmation and then practice this. It only takes a moment."[48]

Love

"Each hour today as you look upon the world, recognize that love within you will speak for itself."[49]

"Love is flowing from you, and today you can attempt to experience this and to release those things that obstruct it." [50]

The Great Practices

Objectivity

"Look at your ideas. Don’t simply be swayed by them. Look at your beliefs. Don’t simply follow or deny them. Learn this objectivity, and you will learn to see with Knowledge, for Knowledge looks on all things mental and physical with equanimity." [51]

"Use this as a guidepost: “I will look, but I will not judge.” [52]

"Today ask yourself what you really know and distinguish what you know from what you think or hope for or want for yourself or your world, what you are afraid of, what you believe in, what you cherish and what you value. Distinguish this question from all such orientations to the very best of your ability and ask yourself, 'What do I really know?'"[53]

In "three brief practice periods, in which you devote your total attention to examining your assumptions, think about the things you really think you know, including things that you have not thought to question before—things that you think you know."[54]

"Think about this statement. Examine what you believe and then examine what you want."[55]

Participation

"Allow no thoughts of fear, anxiety or self-doubt to dissuade you from your greater activity. Your ability to practice regardless of your emotional state demonstrates that the presence of Knowledge is within you, for Knowledge is beyond all emotional states and is unfettered by them. If you wish to see the stars, you must look beyond the clouds. What are your fears but clouds that pass through your mind? They only change the character of the surface of your mind, but the depth of your mind remains unchanged forever." [56]

"Do not let any self-doubt dissuade you in your undertaking, for you need only participate to receive the greatest gift that life can give. Review the past week and think now of what has transpired in your preparation thus far. Observe the development that has occurred within you these past few months—the growing sense of presence, the growing sense of inner certainty, the growing sense of inner power" [57]

Patience

"Practice each hour today affirming that you will learn to be patient and that you will become observant of your life rather than critical of your life. Affirm that you will become objective about your abilities and your circumstances so that you may apply a greater certainty to them."[58]

The Great Practices

Peace

"Practice stillness. Simply receive this stillness, this gift, this reprieve, the luxury of peace where no problems have to be solved and nothing has to be contemplated or corrected. Do not see this as an effort, but as a gift." [59]

Penetration

"Concentrate in meditation upon feeling the presence of your Spiritual Teachers. This is not something you have to try to do. It simply means relaxing, breathing and allowing your mind to open."[60]

Perseverance

"Practice in stillness, and do not be discouraged if it is difficult at first. Simply practice and you will proceed." [17]

Perspective

"Begin by acknowledging to yourself that you are a beginning student of Knowledge and by reminding yourself to make no premature conclusions either about this curriculum or about your abilities as a student. Such judgments are premature and rarely reflect the truth in any way. They are usually a form of self-discouragement and thus serve no worthy purpose at all. After declaring today's idea to yourself and reminding yourself not to judge, practice 15 minutes of inner stillness in your two practice periods. Attempt to feel the truth within you. Focus your mind on one point, either a physical point or an imaginary point if necessary. Let everything settle down inside. Let yourself become as quiet as possible, and do not be discouraged if there is difficulty.' [61]

Poise

"Today think about where you are. If you are not with Knowledge, where are you? Therefore, three times today, 10 minutes each, think about where you are, not just physically or geographically, but where you are in terms of your awareness of yourself in the world. Think very, very carefully. Do not allow your mind to distract you from this orientation."[62]

Potency

"Know that all of your efforts on behalf of Knowledge are supplemented by those who practice with you—those whom you can see and those whom you cannot see. In your deeper practices allow your own self-discipline, which prepares you to enter into stillness and peace, to be supplemented as well."[63]


Power

"In your deeper practices in stillness, receive the benefit of all who practice with you. Remind yourself that you are not alone and that their rewards are given to you as your rewards are given to them. Thus, you share in your accomplishments together. The power of your undertaking is so tremendously supported by the endeavor and the giving of others that it far exceeds your own abilities. When this is realized, it will give you all manner of encouragement and will banish forever the idea that you are inadequate to the tasks that are given to you. For your giving is supplemented by the giving of others, and this represents the Will of God in the universe."[64]

Power of God

"Once again enter into stillness and allow yourself to feel the power of God. Utilize your own power to direct your mind, and do not let doubts or fears dissuade you. The power of God represents the mystery of your life, for it represents the power that you have brought with you from God to be utilized properly in the world according to the Greater Plan. Allow yourself, then, to enter into practice with dedication, with simplicity and with humility so that you may feel the power of God."[65]

"You do not need to conjure up magical images, for this power is something that you can feel, for it is everywhere."[66]

"Do not seek for answers from God. You need not speak at all but only be present, for as you learn to be in relationship with that which is the source of all your relationships, the information that you need can come easily to you to guide you, comfort you and correct you when necessary. But first you must feel the power of God, and in this you will find your own strength."[67]

The Great Practices

Presence

"Feel the presence of your teachers today who abide with you and oversee your preparation as a student of Knowledge. Feel their presence today and you will feel your own presence, for you are joined together in this presence that you feel. Remember that you are not alone, and you will not become isolated in your own thoughts."[68]

"Allow yourself to experience the presence of love, which is the presence of Knowledge, which is the presence of Wisdom, which is the presence of certainty, which is the source of your purpose, meaning and direction in the world and which contains for you your calling in the world. Come into the proximity and into the experience of this presence in your deeper meditations. Do not neglect this, for here you will experience self-love, self-worth and true inclusion in life. Take this presence with you today and receive this presence in your deeper meditations, and you will know that the presence is with you every day."[68]

"Practice remembering this upon the hour by once again concentrating on the presence that is with you. You need only relax to feel it, for it is most certainly with you. In your deeper practices, once again enter stillness in the sanctuary of Knowledge so that you may receive this presence and the great confirmation and comfort that it gives to you. Allow yourself to leave self-doubt and the sense of unworthiness aside, for these things will be consumed in the fire of Knowledge and purified from your mind. When this is done, you will not need to give yourself grandiose ideas of yourself. You will not need to misrepresent yourself in the attempt to escape your sense of guilt and inadequacy, for guilt and inadequacy are consumed in the fire of Knowledge. Therefore, bring all that obstructs your participation and all fears that haunt and oppress you to the fire of Knowledge so that they may be consumed. You will sit in front of this fire, and you will see them being consumed, and you will feel your mind being bathed and cleansed in the loving fire of Knowledge. The presence is with you every day. The fire of Knowledge is with you every day."[69]

The Great Practices

Purpose

"In your deeper practice periods today, actively engage your mind to review all of your small personal problems. Review all of the things you think hold you back and all of the things you think you must resolve for yourself. As you look at each one objectively, without denial, remember and remind yourself that a greater calling is given you which will correct these things or make their correction unnecessary. Remind yourself that Knowledge will provide correction at all levels as your life becomes uniform and directed, as your Knowledge begins to emerge and as your true sense of self begins to be recognized and received."[70]

"Upon the hour remind yourself not to define your purpose, and begin to think of the cost of doing so in terms of your own past experience."[71]

"Dwell upon the idea that there is a great mission that you have in life. Think about this. Do not become immediately convinced by your own first responses. Think about it carefully. Think what this could mean. Think of the moments in your life when you have thought of this before or have entertained its possibility. In your two practice periods, you will have an opportunity then to consider this, but beware—make no conclusions yet."[72]

The Great Practices

Receiving

"You are learning now to receive. The world blesses you as you learn to receive, for Knowledge will flow into you as you become an open receptacle for Knowledge. And you will draw that which is life into yourself, for life is always attracted to those who give. Understand this in its full depth today as you remind yourself upon the hour that life gives to you as you are still. In your two meditation practices, enter stillness once again and feel life being drawn into you. This is a natural attraction. As your giving and stillness become greater, you will feel life being drawn into you, for you will in time become a source of nourishment for life."[73]

Reflection

"Practice today not making any conclusions, but simply recognize the line of development and take note of the progress that you have made thus far." [74]

"Merely look and see what was instructed, what you did and what the result was." [52]

"Look at specific errors that you have made that have been very painful. Do not try to dismiss the pain of them, but see how in your current circumstances in life you can use them for your own benefit." [75]

"Use these practice periods for this introspective process and when you are done, do not speak of the results to any other person, but allow the investigation to continue naturally, as it naturally will." [75]

Release

"In silence and in stillness, attempt to feel your own strength. Do not let thoughts alone dissuade you, for fears and doubts are only thoughts—vaporous things that cross your mind like clouds. Beyond the clouds of your mind is the great universe of Knowledge. Therefore, do not let the clouds obstruct your view of the stars beyond."[76]

Resolution

"What are the behaviors that you engage in now that are not in keeping with your values or your sense of integrity? Write these down and really focus upon them. And see what kind of behaviors or activities can replace these things that would be in keeping with your values and sense of integrity." [77]

Restraint

"Restrain those forms of thinking and behavior that betray your Knowledge so that you may enter Knowledge in stillness and in peace." [78]

The Great Practices

Self-awareness

"Each hour you will need to check in to see your thoughts and to observe your current behavior." ... "Each practice period need only take several minutes but should be given your full attention. You need not close your eyes to do this, though if it is appropriate, it will be helpful. You may practice in the middle of a conversation with another. In fact, there are very few circumstances that will prevent this moment of introspection. In practice you simply ask yourself, 'How do I feel?' and 'What am I doing now?' That is all. Then feel if there is something you must do that you are not doing. If there are no corrections to be made, continue on with what you are doing. If there are corrections to be made, make them as expediently as possible. Allow your inner guidance to influence you, which it will do if you are not governed by impulses, fear or ambition. Observe yourself this day."[79]

Self-trust

"In stillness take refuge in the temple of Knowledge within you. Attempt here to be still and simply feel the power of Knowledge in your life. Bring not your questions, for they will be answered by Knowledge as it emerges within you. Come in openness, seeking relief, seeking comfort, seeking power and seeking certainty. These you will experience because these emanate from the essence of Knowledge within you. Let this day be a day of self-trust and therefore a day of self-love."[80]

The Great Practices

Simplicity

"In your two deeper practice periods, abide with Knowledge. Do not attempt to answer your problems, but simply be still and receptive. Knowledge is aware of what things must be addressed and will cast its influence upon you so that you may respond to it and follow its direction. Without continual interference from you, the obvious will arise, and you will learn what to do step by step. Thus it is that you will realize there is a simple answer for all problems that face you."[81]

Strength

"Today, in two 15-minute practices, feel the presence of the Teachers of God. You cannot yet see them with your eyes, and you cannot yet hear them with your ears because these faculties of sense have not been refined sufficiently yet, but you can feel their presence, for their presence surrounds and protects you. In your practice, let not other thoughts interfere. Do not give in to doubt or confusion, for you must prepare to have the reward that you seek, and you must know that you are not alone in the world to have the strength, the confidence and the resource of Wisdom necessary to achieve that which you were sent here to achieve."[82]

The Great Practices

Teachability

"With your eyes closed in meditation, consider why you need a Teacher. Observe any thoughts that seem to indicate that you could do it on your own if you were smart enough or strong enough or met some other qualification. If these expectations arise, recognize them for what they are. They are an insistence that you remain ignorant by proclaiming yourself an adequate instructor. You cannot teach yourself what you do not know, and the attempt to do so merely recirculates old information and binds you closer to where you are now. Therefore, in practice today recognize your need for true instruction and your resistance, if it is there, to the presence of true instruction which is available to you now."[83]

Transcendence

"Feel your desire to see a different world. Look at the world without judgment and say to yourself, 'I wish to see a different world.' Do this every hour. Try not to miss any practice sessions. Practice no matter how you feel, no matter what is occurring."[84]

Truth

In "two longer practice periods, each of a 30-minute duration, sit quietly with your eyes closed, breathing deeply and regularly, attempting to feel the truth beyond the constant restlessness of your mind. Use your breath to take you deeper, for your breathing will always take you beyond your thoughts if you adhere yourself to it conscientiously. Let nothing distract or dissuade you. If something permeates your mind and you have difficulty releasing it, tell yourself that you will look at it a little later, but that right now you are taking a small vacation from your mind. Practice feeling the truth. Do not think the truth. Practice feeling the truth."[85]

Union

Remember"The world is within me. This I know."…"In your deeper meditations, once again use the word RAHN to take you deeper into the depth of Knowledge. Repeat the idea at the beginning of your practice and then, upon each exhale, repeat the word RAHN quietly to yourself. Allow this to center your mind. Allow this to connect you with the depth of Knowledge. Here you go deeper than you have gone before. In this, you will find all that you seek, and there will be no confusion about the world."[86]

Vision

"Look about in the world and see how few people are aware of life around them, how preoccupied they are with their individual endeavors and personal concerns or conflicts. See how much they are missing and how much you are missing. Give this your attention today in addition to your one practice in stillness and in your hourly practice in awareness and discernment."[87]

Wisdom

"Look and see how the truth has served you. Look at experiences that were happy. Look at experiences that were painful. Particularly in painful experiences, look at how the truth has served you. Look openly. Do not defend a former position if you are tempted to do so. If pain still exists from a loss of an earlier time, accept that pain and its discouragement, but try to look and see how you were truly served by that loss." [88]

Worth

"In your two practice periods today, practice receiving once again the love, support and direction of your Teachers, and if any thought obstructs this, if any feeling prevents this, remind yourself of your great worthiness. You are worthy not for what you have done in the world. You are worthy for who you are, where you have come from and where you are going." [89]

"Practice feeling this relationship. Again you are asked to receive because you must receive this to give it. Once it is received, it will give of itself naturally. In the process of this your worth is re-established because it is quite apparent. You do not need to misrepresent yourself or your experience. To share a great love honestly means you must be experiencing it. It is this experience that we wish to give you today." [90]

The Great Practices

References

  1. Steps to Knowledge, Step 212
  2. Steps to Knowledge, Step 208
  3. Marshall Vian Summers, Campfire Chat of the Free School of the New Message, April 16, 2016. (registration required)
  4. 4.0 4.1 Steps to Knowledge, Step 28
  5. Steps to Knowledge, Step 127
  6. 6.0 6.1 Steps to Knowledge, Step 353: My True Home is in God.
  7. Steps to Knowledge, Step 41
  8. Steps to Knowledge, Step 338
  9. Steps to Knowledge, Step 1
  10. Steps to Knowledge, Step 141
  11. Steps to Knowledge, Step 6
  12. Steps to Knowledge, Step 38
  13. Steps to Knowledge, Step 263
  14. Steps to Knowledge, Step 207
  15. Steps to Knowledge, Step 50
  16. Steps to Knowledge, Step 171
  17. 17.0 17.1 Steps to Knowledge, Step 18
  18. Steps to Knowledge, Step 142
  19. Steps to Knowledge, Step 53
  20. Steps to Knowledge, Step 32
  21. Steps to Knowledge, Step 48
  22. Steps to Knowledge, Step 176
  23. Steps to Knowledge, Step 19
  24. Steps to Knowledge, Step 17
  25. Steps to Knowledge, Step 43
  26. Steps to Knowledge, Step 23
  27. Steps to Knowledge, Step 261: I must learn to give with discernment.
  28. Steps to Knowledge, Step 43
  29. Steps to Knowledge, Step 335
  30. Steps to Knowledge, Step 207
  31. Steps to Knowledge, Step 52
  32. Steps to Knowledge, Step 57:Freedom is with me.
  33. Steps to Knowledge, Step 97: I do not know what fulfillment is.
  34. Steps to Knowledge, Step 148: My practice is my gift to God.
  35. Steps to Knowledge, Step 149
  36. Steps to Knowledge, Step 86: I honor those who have given to me.
  37. Steps to Knowledge, Step 178: I will remember those who have given to me today.
  38. Steps to Knowledge, Step 195: Knowledge is more powerful than I realize.
  39. Steps To Knowledge Continuation Training, Step 74: I seek to be a force for good in the world.
  40. Steps to Knowledge, Step 37: There is a way to Knowledge.
  41. Steps to Knowledge, Step 103: I am honored by God.
  42. Steps to Knowledge, Step 15
  43. Steps to Knowledge, Step 16
  44. Steps to Knowledge, Step 17: Today I want to hear the truth.
  45. Steps to Knowledge, Step 30
  46. Steps to Knowledge, Step 131: Today I will seek the experience of true purpose in life.
  47. Steps to Knowledge, Step 121
  48. Steps to Knowledge, Step 62: Today I will learn to listen to life.
  49. Steps to Knowledge, Step 61
  50. Steps to Knowledge, Step 206
  51. Steps to Knowledge, Step 202
  52. 52.0 52.1 Steps to Knowledge, Step 35
  53. Steps to Knowledge, Step 3
  54. Steps to Knowledge, Step 4
  55. Steps to Knowledge, Step 5: I believe what I want to believe.
  56. Steps to Knowledge, Step 42
  57. Steps to Knowledge, Step 182: Review
  58. Steps to Knowledge, Step 59: Today I will learn patience.
  59. Steps to Knowledge Continuation Training, Step 2
  60. Steps to Knowledge, Step 36
  61. Steps to Knowledge, Step 34: I am a beginning student of Knowledge.
  62. Steps to Knowledge, Step 2
  63. Steps to Knowledge, Step 233
  64. Steps to Knowledge, Step 170
  65. Steps to Knowledge, Step 39
  66. Steps to Knowledge, Step 40
  67. Steps to Knowledge, Step 41
  68. 68.0 68.1 Steps to Knowledge, Step 333: There is a presence with me. I can feel it.
  69. Steps to Knowledge, Step 334
  70. Steps to Knowledge, Step 312
  71. Steps to Knowledge, Step 134
  72. Steps to Knowledge, Step 33
  73. Steps to Knowledge, Step 155
  74. Steps to Knowledge, Step 21: Review
  75. 75.0 75.1 Steps to Knowledge, Step 26
  76. Steps to Knowledge, Step 44
  77. Freedom from Addiction and Obsession (January 23, 2009)
  78. Steps to Knowledge, Step 220
  79. Steps to Knowledge, Step 29:I will observe myself today to learn of Knowledge.
  80. Steps to Knowledge, Step 316
  81. Steps to Knowledge, Step 267
  82. Steps to Knowledge, Step 22
  83. Steps to Knowledge, Step 47
  84. Steps to Knowledge, Step 31: I wish to see a world I have never seen before.
  85. Steps to Knowledge, Step 32: The truth is with me. I can feel it.
  86. Steps to Knowledge, Step 169
  87. Steps To Knowledge Continuation Training, Step 15: Let me look towards the Greater Community to understand where my life is going.
  88. Steps to Knowledge, Step 27
  89. Steps to Knowledge, Step 24
  90. Steps to Knowledge, Step 25

Further study

See also

Affirmations from Steps to Knowledge

Practices

Practices to release

Spiritual practice

Recommendations for People Everywhere

Guidelines for Living the New Message

Stillness

The Great Practices

Advocacy