Changes

One cannot have [[patience]] dwelling in [[mortal]] form without [[faith]]. You may [[think]] that your faith is shaky, but it is not. It may grow faster now, slower then, and this may be what contributes to the sense of shakiness. But it is not shaky, not at all. [[Remember]] your [[faith]], your [[knowledge]] that there are many, many [[beings]] here [[observing]], many helping, and that you are much [[loved]]. And remember also that this [[material]] [[form]] is but a passing thing, but an [[embryonic]] [[stage]] in your lifetime as a [[being]] in the [[cosmos]]. I know that the increments of [[time]] in your lives seem so long. This was true for me also. But they are so very brief on the [[scale]] of [[the universe]]s, barely discernible even to those in the [[mansion worlds]]. When you hear of [[individuals]] who have existed for 10,000 years or 25,000 years or more, this may seem incredible to you. But it is such a small time. If you [[compare]] your minutes and hours and years against a [[childhood]] lasting 50,000 years and an [[adulthood]] that goes on for [[eternity]], it may give you some [[idea]] of the time [[scope]] of [[spirit]] life. Remember this, my [[friends]], when you are pressed and your [[animal]] [[origins]] strive to come to [[surface]], remember that what happened to you in the last week or month or decade has only just occurred on the [[scope]] of [[universal]] [[time]], and will be totally resolved and forgotten by the same [[criteria]].

One cannot have [[patience]] dwelling in [[mortal]] form without [[faith]]. You may [[think]] that your faith is shaky, but it is not. It may grow faster now, slower then, and this may be what contributes to the sense of shakiness. But it is not shaky, not at all. [[Remember]] your [[faith]], your [[knowledge]] that there are many, many [[beings]] here [[observing]], many helping, and that you are much [[loved]]. And remember also that this [[material]] [[form]] is but a passing thing, but an [[embryonic]] [[stage]] in your lifetime as a [[being]] in the [[cosmos]]. I know that the increments of [[time]] in your lives seem so long. This was true for me also. But they are so very brief on the [[scale]] of [[the universe]]s, barely discernible even to those in the [[mansion worlds]]. When you hear of [[individuals]] who have existed for 10,000 years or 25,000 years or more, this may seem incredible to you. But it is such a small time. If you [[compare]] your minutes and hours and years against a [[childhood]] lasting 50,000 years and an [[adulthood]] that goes on for [[eternity]], it may give you some [[idea]] of the time [[scope]] of [[spirit]] life. Remember this, my [[friends]], when you are pressed and your [[animal]] [[origins]] strive to come to [[surface]], remember that what happened to you in the last week or month or decade has only just occurred on the [[scope]] of [[universal]] [[time]], and will be totally resolved and forgotten by the same [[criteria]].

As I mentioned in our last lesson, the [[reality]] of [[material]] life is very real to you - as it must be in your present form - but it is not a [[reality]] that you will continue to [[maintain]] when you pass on to your next form and the ones beyond. It will be very much like your time in the [[womb]] is to you now. Do you even remember that? Do the [[events]] of that 40 week period [[touch]] you now in a [[conscious]] way? So too with your present life. And let me [[assure]] that when you were in the [[womb]] you had an [[awareness]] of sorts, also, an awareness that was as real to you then as this awareness is to you now. But you [[survived]] that period of [[preparation]] and you shall survive this one as well. You can [[compensate]] for deficiencies in the [[womb]], if you survive to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parturition parturition]. And you can compensate for deficiencies in the [[flesh]], if you survive to [[death]], speaking of spiritual [[survival]], of course. But would you not like to reach the [[moment]] of your [[death]] as well-[[prepared]] as possible for the next step beyond? So be [[patient]]. Stand by your [[faith]] and remember that [[the Father|Father]] in [[Paradise]] [[loves]] you, loved you enough to create you, loves you enough to send you these lessons and to provide helpers for you, and to have a [[plan]] for your [[work]] in the [[cosmos]] beyond, so that you can be a true living extension of [[Paradise]] now and forever. This concludes our lesson today. I will take [[questions]] now.

As I mentioned in our last lesson, the [[reality]] of [[material]] life is very real to you - as it must be in your present form - but it is not a [[reality]] that you will continue to [[maintain]] when you pass on to your next form and the ones beyond. It will be very much like your time in the [[womb]] is to you now. Do you even remember that? Do the [[events]] of that 40 week period [[touch]] you now in a [[conscious]] way? So too with your present life. And let me [[assure]] that when you were in the [[womb]] you had an [[awareness]] of sorts, also, an awareness that was as real to you then as this awareness is to you now. But you [[survived]] that period of [[preparation]] and you shall survive this one as well. You can [[compensate]] for deficiencies in the [[womb]], if you survive to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parturition parturition]. And you can compensate for deficiencies in the [[flesh]], if you survive to [[death]], speaking of spiritual [[survival]], of course. But would you not like to reach the [[moment]] of your [[death]] as well-[[prepared]] as possible for the next step beyond? So be [[patient]]. Stand by your [[faith]] and remember that [[the Father|Father]] in [[Paradise]] [[loves]] you, loved you enough to create you, loves you enough to send you these lessons and to provide helpers for you, and to have a [[plan]] for your [[work]] in the [[cosmos]] beyond, so that you can be a true living extension of [[Paradise]] now and forever. This concludes our lesson today. I will take [[questions]] now.

S: Thank you, Rayson. I've been impressed with your lesson on [[patience]]. It's very appropriate at the present time. When [[the Gods]] [[decided]] to embark upon the grand [[adventure]] of [[time and space]], they used both [[simultaneously]], and [[all things]] - all physical things - require time. Just as an acorn cannot become an oak instantaneously, so do many of our [[experiences]] require time to [[play]] themselves out. Is that correct?

S: Thank you, Rayson. I've been impressed with your lesson on [[patience]]. It's very appropriate at the present time. When [[the Gods]] [[decided]] to embark upon the grand [[adventure]] of [[time and space]], they used both [[simultaneously]], and [[all things]] - all physical things - require time. Just as an acorn cannot become an oak instantaneously, so do many of our [[experiences]] require time to [[play]] themselves out. Is that correct?

A: I would not use that term because of other connotations in your [[culture]] that are erroneous.

A: I would not use that term because of other connotations in your [[culture]] that are erroneous.

Q: Yet it was the very [[essence]] of [[Jesus]]' teaching to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] that you must be born again.

Q: Yet it was the very [[essence]] of [[Jesus]]' teaching to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicodemus Nicodemus] that you must be born again.

A: That is true, but the idiomatic use of that phrase at present in your [[culture]] reflects an incorrect [[understanding]] of [[Jesus]]' [[intent]] when He uttered it originally.

A: That is true, but the idiomatic use of that phrase at present in your [[culture]] reflects an incorrect [[understanding]] of [[Jesus]]' [[intent]] when He uttered it originally.

Q: I presume that some people [[think]] of being [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Born_again_%28Christianity%29 born again] in those terms, but I prefer to [[think]] of it as being as [[Jesus]] taught it. And I think that those who are familiar with the [[Urantia Book]] feel [[comfortable]] with that [[language]].

Q: I presume that some people [[think]] of being [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Born_again_%28Christianity%29 born again] in those terms, but I prefer to [[think]] of it as being as [[Jesus]] taught it. And I think that those who are familiar with the [[Urantia Book]] feel [[comfortable]] with that [[language]].

A: Yes, my friend, but remember that in [[future]] times our present [[discussions]] will be reviewed most [[critically]] by some who are not friendly to our cause nor to the [[Urantia Book]], so we must be most cautious in our use of [[language]] in these recorded [[discussions]].

A: Yes, my friend, but remember that in [[future]] times our present [[discussions]] will be reviewed most [[critically]] by some who are not friendly to our cause nor to the [[Urantia Book]], so we must be most cautious in our use of [[language]] in these recorded [[discussions]].

S: Yes, I think [[animals]] are [[controlled]] by the [[adjutant mind spirits]], the first five certainly lead in that direction.

S: Yes, I think [[animals]] are [[controlled]] by the [[adjutant mind spirits]], the first five certainly lead in that direction.

R: Yes. The continuing [[presence]] of [[God]], but, ah, how [[different]] it may be once you have [[journeyed]] to [[Paradise]] to strike out into the [[void]]. It may be most familiar to you, having lived in your present [[material]] form in a [[planet]] subject to [[rebellion]] and severance of the [[universe circuits]], but, of course, you will not be [[abandoned]] ever again. Nor will you strike out into that void without much [[connection]] to [[Paradise]] which is comforting to us. We will be most thoroughly tested and most expertly [[prepared]] before we take our [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_walk space walk].

R: Yes. The continuing [[presence]] of [[God]], but, ah, how [[different]] it may be once you have [[journeyed]] to [[Paradise]] to strike out into the [[void]]. It may be most familiar to you, having lived in your present [[material]] form in a [[planet]] subject to [[rebellion]] and severance of the [[universe circuits]], but, of course, you will not be [[abandoned]] ever again. Nor will you strike out into that void without much [[connection]] to [[Paradise]] which is comforting to us. We will be most thoroughly tested and most expertly [[prepared]] before we take our [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_walk space walk].

S: To answer your [[original]] question, I certainly do find it thrilling to [[participate]] with the [[Deity]] in the [[creation]] of something from nothing, to give Him [[experiences]] in overcoming [[evil]], to [[worship]] Him because of His own [[beauty]] instead of because I was created [[perfect]] to do so. All of these are very thrilling to me.

S: To answer your [[original]] question, I certainly do find it thrilling to [[participate]] with the [[Deity]] in the [[creation]] of something from nothing, to give Him [[experiences]] in overcoming [[evil]], to [[worship]] Him because of His own [[beauty]] instead of because I was created [[perfect]] to do so. All of these are very thrilling to me.

Q: As long as you find [[enjoyment]] in this I [[assume]] then that it is in [[accordance]] with [[the Father|Father]]'s plan for all that their enjoyment increases as their [[skills]] develop?

Q: As long as you find [[enjoyment]] in this I [[assume]] then that it is in [[accordance]] with [[the Father|Father]]'s plan for all that their enjoyment increases as their [[skills]] develop?

A: Yes, yes, you are right. What greater [[wonderment]] could there be than to draw closer to [[the Father|Father]]? And you see when a [[Urantia]] [[mortal]] [[progresses]] in his or her life appropriately, there will be that period of [[physical]] striving and [[gratification]] of [[animal]] drives. And there will be the period of [[intellectual]] striving and - through the intellect - gratification of the [[animal]] drives. And then there will be, if one is fortunate to [[escape]] [[accident]], there will be that period of spirit striving and [[attainment]]. The one who becomes superlative in the [[intellectual]] striving, but never passes beyond, the one who excels in the intellectual effort and never [[graduates]] to the [[spiritual]] has not, for whatever reason, managed to [[exploit]] the [[potential]] which exists now on [[this planet]]. The one who never goes beyond the [[physical]] has been even more [[retarded]], you might say, for there is ample [[opportunity]] to [[transcend]] the [[physical]] and [[intellectual]] and [[achieve]] that spirit level of [[growth]] during a [[normal]] time span of life on [[Urantia]] now. The [[channel]] suggests that I evoke the [[image]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neapolitan_ice_cream Neapolitan ice cream]. [laughter] (11/21/93)

A: Yes, yes, you are right. What greater [[wonderment]] could there be than to draw closer to [[the Father|Father]]? And you see when a [[Urantia]] [[mortal]] [[progresses]] in his or her life appropriately, there will be that period of [[physical]] striving and [[gratification]] of [[animal]] drives. And there will be the period of [[intellectual]] striving and - through the intellect - gratification of the [[animal]] drives. And then there will be, if one is fortunate to [[escape]] [[accident]], there will be that period of spirit striving and [[attainment]]. The one who becomes superlative in the [[intellectual]] striving, but never passes beyond, the one who excels in the intellectual effort and never [[graduates]] to the [[spiritual]] has not, for whatever reason, managed to [[exploit]] the [[potential]] which exists now on [[this planet]]. The one who never goes beyond the [[physical]] has been even more [[retarded]], you might say, for there is ample [[opportunity]] to [[transcend]] the [[physical]] and [[intellectual]] and [[achieve]] that spirit level of [[growth]] during a [[normal]] time span of life on [[Urantia]] now. The [[channel]] suggests that I evoke the [[image]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neapolitan_ice_cream Neapolitan ice cream]. [laughter] (11/21/93)

Our lesson today is on the subject of [[play]], [[rest]] and recreation, which is a natural correlate to our previous [[1993-01-01-Rayson & Friends, Vol. 2, Part 4|discussion on work]]. Play, rest, and recreation are just as [[vital]] to the functioning of the [[cosmos]] as our [[work]]. This is not to say you cannot accomplish work in the [[course]] of your restful [[activities]]. However, for the [[purposes]] of this [[discussion]], we will [[separate]] the two areas. In your present [[material]] mode of existence, there is a far [[clearer]] demarcation between [[work]] and [[play]], toil and [[leisure]], than you shall ever [[experience]] again. It has often been said that the most [[difficult]] part of any [[project]] is the laying of the [[foundation]], and you are now laying the [[spiritual]] [[foundation]] for your long, long [[universe career]]. Therefore this period is [[difficult]] for you, very difficult, as your [[perception]] of the level of [[difficulty]] is most likely greatest now [[compared]] to what you will [[perceive]] at any later time in your [[existence]].

Our lesson today is on the subject of [[play]], [[rest]] and recreation, which is a natural correlate to our previous [[1993-01-01-Rayson & Friends, Vol. 2, Part 4|discussion on work]]. Play, rest, and recreation are just as [[vital]] to the functioning of the [[cosmos]] as our [[work]]. This is not to say you cannot accomplish work in the [[course]] of your restful [[activities]]. However, for the [[purposes]] of this [[discussion]], we will [[separate]] the two areas. In your present [[material]] mode of existence, there is a far [[clearer]] demarcation between [[work]] and [[play]], toil and [[leisure]], than you shall ever [[experience]] again. It has often been said that the most [[difficult]] part of any [[project]] is the laying of the [[foundation]], and you are now laying the [[spiritual]] [[foundation]] for your long, long [[universe career]]. Therefore this period is [[difficult]] for you, very difficult, as your [[perception]] of the level of [[difficulty]] is most likely greatest now [[compared]] to what you will [[perceive]] at any later time in your [[existence]].

Because of this [[difficulty]] that is built into the imperfect and [[material]] existence on an imperfect [[planet]], every [[unit]] - no matter how small - of work is experienced as an [[ordeal]] and the departure from work has heightened [[meaning]] in [[contrast]]. On [[your planet]] you call the activities you [[choose]] to [[participate]] in when not working, "[[playing]]", "[[leisure]]", "recreation", "[[rest]]", among other things I shall [[define]] the three areas that I wish to address in this [[discussion]]: [[play]], recreation and [[rest]]. We shall start with rest.  

Because of this [[difficulty]] that is built into the imperfect and [[material]] existence on an imperfect [[planet]], every [[unit]] - no matter how small - of work is experienced as an [[ordeal]] and the departure from work has heightened [[meaning]] in [[contrast]]. On [[your planet]] you call the activities you [[choose]] to [[participate]] in when not working, "[[playing]]", "[[leisure]]", "recreation", "[[rest]]", among other things I shall [[define]] the three areas that I wish to address in this [[discussion]]: [[play]], recreation and [[rest]]. We shall start with rest.  

Rest [[encompasses]] the activities that the being undertakes in order to allow it's [[functioning]] parts to re-achieve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeostasis homeostasis] after their use, just as an engine, for example, would need a period of non-use between periods of use to optimize it's overall [[function]]. This is also true for living [[beings]], and indeed the tissues of your [[body]] are composed in such a fashion that periods of rest enable them to repair any [[damage]] done, replenish [[energy]] supplies, and sometimes [[grow]] to meet ongoing demands for [[performance]]. This applies to all tissues of your [[body]], including not only your connective [[structures]] such as bone, tendons, muscles, but also your organs, heart, liver, kidneys intestines, brain, glands; all of your working parts require [[rest]]. Additionally, rest enables your [[Thought Adjuster]] to more [[gracefully]] depart when [[necessary]] and to [[work]] out useful [[strategies]] to [[assist]] you in your life [[mission]], including your own [[personal growth]] and development. So you can see, my [[friends]], that [[rest]] is indeed critical to you.  

Rest [[encompasses]] the activities that the being undertakes in order to allow it's [[functioning]] parts to re-achieve [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeostasis homeostasis] after their use, just as an engine, for example, would need a period of non-use between periods of use to optimize it's overall [[function]]. This is also true for living [[beings]], and indeed the tissues of your [[body]] are composed in such a fashion that periods of rest enable them to repair any [[damage]] done, replenish [[energy]] supplies, and sometimes [[grow]] to meet ongoing demands for [[performance]]. This applies to all tissues of your [[body]], including not only your connective [[structures]] such as bone, tendons, muscles, but also your organs, heart, liver, kidneys intestines, brain, glands; all of your working parts require [[rest]]. Additionally, rest enables your [[Thought Adjuster]] to more [[gracefully]] depart when [[necessary]] and to [[work]] out useful [[strategies]] to [[assist]] you in your life [[mission]], including your own [[personal growth]] and development. So you can see, my [[friends]], that [[rest]] is indeed critical to you.  

[[Play]] is [[different]] from rest although your [[participation]] in play activities can enhance your [[rest]] periods. Play is that set of [[activities]] in which one undertakes [[self-mastery]] in order to achieve solutions to [[problems]] of [[spirit growth]] and development. Your [[Thought Adjuster]] is quite active in it's [[interaction]] with you during your periods of [[play]], and you are - believe it or not - frequently in direct [[communication]] with [[the Father|Father]] when you are truly at [[play]]. This [[definition]] of play may be [[surprising]] or even startling to some of you who may have understood the [[concept]] quite differently. But there is no part of play that involves [[conflict]] with fellow [[beings]], faulty [[pride]], [[greed]] or other of the base elements of [[behavior]] that we know accrue to imperfectly created beings of [[animal]] origins.

[[Play]] is [[different]] from rest although your [[participation]] in play activities can enhance your [[rest]] periods. Play is that set of [[activities]] in which one undertakes [[self-mastery]] in order to achieve solutions to [[problems]] of [[spirit growth]] and development. Your [[Thought Adjuster]] is quite active in it's [[interaction]] with you during your periods of [[play]], and you are - believe it or not - frequently in direct [[communication]] with [[the Father|Father]] when you are truly at [[play]]. This [[definition]] of play may be [[surprising]] or even startling to some of you who may have understood the [[concept]] quite differently. But there is no part of play that involves [[conflict]] with fellow [[beings]], faulty [[pride]], [[greed]] or other of the base elements of [[behavior]] that we know accrue to imperfectly created beings of [[animal]] origins.

S: Thank you.

S: Thank you.

Q: Are you saying that [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entheogens hallucinogenic type drugs] cannot help anyone in their [[spiritual growth]], even though they visualize [[Deity]] in a [[unique]] way?

Q: Are you saying that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entheogens hallucinogenic type drugs] cannot help anyone in their [[spiritual growth]], even though they visualize [[Deity]] in a [[unique]] way?

A: The [[hallucination]] may be the [[visualization]] of [[Deity]], but it is extremely unlikely that that is the [[fact]].

A: The [[hallucination]] may be the [[visualization]] of [[Deity]], but it is extremely unlikely that that is the [[fact]].

Q: Would it be correct to say that if there is [[spiritual growth]] at the time one takes [[drugs]]...

Q: Would it be correct to say that if there is [[spiritual growth]] at the time one takes [[drugs]]...

A: To elaborate on the last question that was asked, which was if any [[spiritual growth]] occurs during the taking of [[drugs]] or alcohol: might it not be in spite of, rather than due to, such substances? My answer is this you all know that there are times during which the [[Adjuster]] departs for various [[purposes]]. Most likely when you use [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exogenous exogenous] substances that alter your [[mind]] [[thought]], your [[Adjuster]] will depart. You will not grow spiritually unless your [[Adjuster]] is there with you. Does that answer?

A: To elaborate on the last question that was asked, which was if any [[spiritual growth]] occurs during the taking of [[drugs]] or alcohol: might it not be in spite of, rather than due to, such substances? My answer is this you all know that there are times during which the [[Adjuster]] departs for various [[purposes]]. Most likely when you use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exogenous exogenous] substances that alter your [[mind]] [[thought]], your [[Adjuster]] will depart. You will not grow spiritually unless your [[Adjuster]] is there with you. Does that answer?

Q: Yes, except it would seem that when one takes those [[drugs]], that's when you would need the [[Adjuster]] the most, and that they would know this and would not depart.

Q: Yes, except it would seem that when one takes those [[drugs]], that's when you would need the [[Adjuster]] the most, and that they would know this and would not depart.

A: It all depends on the [[circumstances]], but when the [[Adjuster]] [[senses]] that the being in which it dwells is not [[receptive]] to [[spirit]] promptings, that is always a cue for departure. Now, it may be that when you use whatever you are doing so with the [[goal]] of spiritual work and [[progress]], in that case your [[Adjuster]] might remain. But if you were to [[plan]] a debauch with the sole [[purpose]] of behaving in an [[animal]] [[fashion]], it is very unlikely that the [[Adjuster]] would stay to [[observe]], for the capacity for [[spirit growth]] would be almost nil. Your [[personal guardians]] might stay to help to [[protect]] you, unless you dismiss them. Does that help?

A: It all depends on the [[circumstances]], but when the [[Adjuster]] [[senses]] that the being in which it dwells is not [[receptive]] to [[spirit]] promptings, that is always a cue for departure. Now, it may be that when you use whatever you are doing so with the [[goal]] of spiritual work and [[progress]], in that case your [[Adjuster]] might remain. But if you were to [[plan]] a debauch with the sole [[purpose]] of behaving in an [[animal]] [[fashion]], it is very unlikely that the [[Adjuster]] would stay to [[observe]], for the capacity for [[spirit growth]] would be almost nil. Your [[personal guardians]] might stay to help to [[protect]] you, unless you dismiss them. Does that help?

S: I [[believe]] that when we talk about [[drugs]] and alcohol it's too general a way to phrase it because I don't think many of us here do [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entheogens hallucinogenic drugs] on a regular basis. The drugs that we do tend to be things like aspirin, caffeine, nicotine - for some people, alcohol, prescription [[drugs]] - and I don't believe that with the taking of those that the [[Adjuster]] would leave under any circumstance.

S: I [[believe]] that when we talk about [[drugs]] and alcohol it's too general a way to phrase it because I don't think many of us here do [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entheogens hallucinogenic drugs] on a regular basis. The drugs that we do tend to be things like aspirin, caffeine, nicotine - for some people, alcohol, prescription [[drugs]] - and I don't believe that with the taking of those that the [[Adjuster]] would leave under any circumstance.

R: I answered the question with the linguistic [[assignment]] of non-medication substances to the [[word]] "drugs". Perhaps this was a misunderstanding.

R: I answered the question with the linguistic [[assignment]] of non-medication substances to the [[word]] "drugs". Perhaps this was a misunderstanding.

S2: My [[understanding]] is illicit drugs.

S2: My [[understanding]] is illicit drugs.

R: A more precise way of describing such substances as what one questioner called "[[drugs]]", as opposed to "[[medications]]", would be to use the term "mind-altering substances" consumed with the specific [[intent]] of [[mind]] [[thought]] alteration. Very few medications would come under this definition, although there are some which are used for [[behavior]] [[adjustment]] in the case of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurological_diasease neurological diseases]. But it is my [[understanding]] that substances which are consumed, including [[food]] at times, for [[animal]] [[gratification]] [[purposes]] do not promote [[spirit growth]] and development, except by [[accident]].  

R: A more precise way of describing such substances as what one questioner called "[[drugs]]", as opposed to "[[medications]]", would be to use the term "mind-altering substances" consumed with the specific [[intent]] of [[mind]] [[thought]] alteration. Very few medications would come under this definition, although there are some which are used for [[behavior]] [[adjustment]] in the case of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurological_diasease neurological diseases]. But it is my [[understanding]] that substances which are consumed, including [[food]] at times, for [[animal]] [[gratification]] [[purposes]] do not promote [[spirit growth]] and development, except by [[accident]].  

Q. Your definition and qualification of the [[words]] are appreciated, and it makes what you said previously more [[exact]], and I thank you for that. And, I guess, the last part you were talking about, that even such commonplace [[drugs]] as caffeine, or even food items such as sugar when consumed in [[quantity]], can also produce deleterious [[effects]] which tend to counter your [[spiritual]] [[leadings]] from your [[Adjuster]]. Is that correct?

Q. Your definition and qualification of the [[words]] are appreciated, and it makes what you said previously more [[exact]], and I thank you for that. And, I guess, the last part you were talking about, that even such commonplace [[drugs]] as caffeine, or even food items such as sugar when consumed in [[quantity]], can also produce deleterious [[effects]] which tend to counter your [[spiritual]] [[leadings]] from your [[Adjuster]]. Is that correct?

A: First, the issue of how is prayer answered. Yes, that is a most [[fascinating]] subject and actually will be the object of a lesson in the [[future]]. I shall attempt to answer as briefly as possible at this time. When you pray you actually - if you follow instructions and are [[sincere]] - you actually tap into the [[universe circuits]] and, through means that are not clear to me, your [[prayer]] is routed all the way to [[Paradise]]. This is a most [[amazing]] thing - and I never cease to wonder at the [[miracle]] of it - that so many, many, many [[beings]] in all [[the universes]] could, by the simple [[technique]] of [[prayer]], could have [[access]] to [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]]. But this is indeed what happens. And once the [[prayer]] is [[received]], a [[decision]] follows and through the [[universal]] [[administrative]] [[channels]] orders are given for certain [[actions]] to be taken in answer to the [[prayer]]. Now these are not always what the prayer has in [[mind]].

A: First, the issue of how is prayer answered. Yes, that is a most [[fascinating]] subject and actually will be the object of a lesson in the [[future]]. I shall attempt to answer as briefly as possible at this time. When you pray you actually - if you follow instructions and are [[sincere]] - you actually tap into the [[universe circuits]] and, through means that are not clear to me, your [[prayer]] is routed all the way to [[Paradise]]. This is a most [[amazing]] thing - and I never cease to wonder at the [[miracle]] of it - that so many, many, many [[beings]] in all [[the universes]] could, by the simple [[technique]] of [[prayer]], could have [[access]] to [[the Father]] in [[Paradise]]. But this is indeed what happens. And once the [[prayer]] is [[received]], a [[decision]] follows and through the [[universal]] [[administrative]] [[channels]] orders are given for certain [[actions]] to be taken in answer to the [[prayer]]. Now these are not always what the prayer has in [[mind]].

Few will [[wake]] up and find a new car in your driveway, or your [[debts]] are erased, or a suitcase full of [[money]] in your bed, and therefore some would say that [[prayers]] are not answered. But of course, these are [[material]] considerations and prayers are not answered in a [[material]] fashion. But be [[assured]] that when you pray there is an almost [[instantaneous]] [[response]] to your [[prayer]] in the form of celestial [[guidance]], [[assistance]], and - in ways deemed appropriate by [[the Father]] - you are given help that is sought. [In response to a question about the [[Lucifer rebellion]] and [[Caligastia betrayal]] Rayson said:] It takes such a small amount of [[difference]] in [[direction]] on the [[universe]] [[scale]] to have the enormous [[effect]] over the [[course]] of time. A [[fraction]] of a degree difference in [[direction]], that is all that [[Caligastia]]'s [[behavior]] affected, and yet the result was to essentially derail the basic [[plan]] leading toward the establishment of [[Light and Life]] on [[Urantia]] quite severely. The major impact of [[67:1 The Caligastia Betrayal|Caligastia's disobedience]] was the severance of the [[universe circuits]] to [[Urantia]] and [[Isolated worlds|other planets involved in the rebellion]], because when this severance occurred man was left far, far more to his own [[physical]] being than would have been the case otherwise. If you [[starve]] a living creature of one essential nutrient the [[creature]] will live, but its [[function]] will be impaired. A good [[example]] is [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamins vitamin] or mineral malnutrition. This is [[analogous]] to what happened when the [[universe circuits]] were severed to contain [[the rebellion]]. Man continued to live but did not thrive as had been intended because of a stunting of [[spiritual growth]]. Yes, [[prayers]] were still answered, but through a [[detour]] - if you will - and less expeditiously than otherwise would have been the case. Yes, there were beings - are [[beings]] - here to help you, [[Midwayers]] and beyond. But because of lack of [[access]] to the [[universe circuits]] it was immeasurably harder for these helpers to [[assist]] man as he sought daily [[guidance]] in [[spiritual growth]]. (05/22/93)

Few will [[wake]] up and find a new car in your driveway, or your [[debts]] are erased, or a suitcase full of [[money]] in your bed, and therefore some would say that [[prayers]] are not answered. But of course, these are [[material]] considerations and prayers are not answered in a [[material]] fashion. But be [[assured]] that when you pray there is an almost [[instantaneous]] [[response]] to your [[prayer]] in the form of celestial [[guidance]], [[assistance]], and - in ways deemed appropriate by [[the Father]] - you are given help that is sought. [In response to a question about the [[Lucifer rebellion]] and [[Caligastia betrayal]] Rayson said:] It takes such a small amount of [[difference]] in [[direction]] on the [[universe]] [[scale]] to have the enormous [[effect]] over the [[course]] of time. A [[fraction]] of a degree difference in [[direction]], that is all that [[Caligastia]]'s [[behavior]] affected, and yet the result was to essentially derail the basic [[plan]] leading toward the establishment of [[Light and Life]] on [[Urantia]] quite severely. The major impact of [[67:1 The Caligastia Betrayal|Caligastia's disobedience]] was the severance of the [[universe circuits]] to [[Urantia]] and [[Isolated worlds|other planets involved in the rebellion]], because when this severance occurred man was left far, far more to his own [[physical]] being than would have been the case otherwise. If you [[starve]] a living creature of one essential nutrient the [[creature]] will live, but its [[function]] will be impaired. A good [[example]] is [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamins vitamin] or mineral malnutrition. This is [[analogous]] to what happened when the [[universe circuits]] were severed to contain [[the rebellion]]. Man continued to live but did not thrive as had been intended because of a stunting of [[spiritual growth]]. Yes, [[prayers]] were still answered, but through a [[detour]] - if you will - and less expeditiously than otherwise would have been the case. Yes, there were beings - are [[beings]] - here to help you, [[Midwayers]] and beyond. But because of lack of [[access]] to the [[universe circuits]] it was immeasurably harder for these helpers to [[assist]] man as he sought daily [[guidance]] in [[spiritual growth]]. (05/22/93)

S: I have a [[feeling]] that my [[strength]] and my [[security]] lie only in my [[faith]], is that correct? Faith makes it possible to [[talk]] with you. Frankly, I'm uncomfortable, it’s a new [[experience]]. I mean the [[fact]] that you exist and the way that you [[communicate]] is not-its so foreign to [[conventional]] [[thought]]. I feel like I'm standing in a valley, about to climb a [[mountain]], and the mountain is covered in clouds. And then you come along and the [[Urantia Book]] comes along, blows away the clouds and I see this [[mountain]], its 350,000 years high, and you are on the same mountain. Is that right?

S: I have a [[feeling]] that my [[strength]] and my [[security]] lie only in my [[faith]], is that correct? Faith makes it possible to [[talk]] with you. Frankly, I'm uncomfortable, it’s a new [[experience]]. I mean the [[fact]] that you exist and the way that you [[communicate]] is not-its so foreign to [[conventional]] [[thought]]. I feel like I'm standing in a valley, about to climb a [[mountain]], and the mountain is covered in clouds. And then you come along and the [[Urantia Book]] comes along, blows away the clouds and I see this [[mountain]], its 350,000 years high, and you are on the same mountain. Is that right?

R: Yes. You have done this yourself already. Have you not?

R: Yes. You have done this yourself already. Have you not?

S: Well, I thought maybe my [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amateur_astronomy amateur astronomy] would be very insignificant [[compared]] to the [[knowledge]] the [[celestials]] might have. For example, (S) was asking me yesterday about [[black hole]]s and whether I thought that you had ever visited a black hole or knew what one was.

S: Well, I thought maybe my [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amateur_astronomy amateur astronomy] would be very insignificant [[compared]] to the [[knowledge]] the [[celestials]] might have. For example, (S) was asking me yesterday about [[black hole]]s and whether I thought that you had ever visited a black hole or knew what one was.

R: We do not use such [[terminology]] for the [[phenomenon]] to which you refer. Remember that your [[technology]], although it is marvelous for what it is, is still quite [[limited]], and most of what is considered [[knowledge]] on [[Urantia]] is really grand [[speculation]] based on very tiny bits of [[fact]].

R: We do not use such [[terminology]] for the [[phenomenon]] to which you refer. Remember that your [[technology]], although it is marvelous for what it is, is still quite [[limited]], and most of what is considered [[knowledge]] on [[Urantia]] is really grand [[speculation]] based on very tiny bits of [[fact]].

R: Perhaps a kindergartner is best served by the kindergarten [[experience]] of learning to [[play]], [[socialize]], count, [[control]] one's [[physical]] functions.

R: Perhaps a kindergartner is best served by the kindergarten [[experience]] of learning to [[play]], [[socialize]], count, [[control]] one's [[physical]] functions.

S: Or the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polliwog polliwog].

S: Or the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polliwog polliwog].

R: Exactly. Why instruct a polliwog in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fly Fishing fly-catching]? Or a caterpillar in flight? There is much that could be [[explained]] to you in the area that you question, but it may not be very [[meaningful]] to you at this [[point]] of your [[experiential]] [[progress]]. This is not meant to be a [[criticism]], but rather to afford you some [[perspective]].

R: Exactly. Why instruct a polliwog in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fly Fishing fly-catching]? Or a caterpillar in flight? There is much that could be [[explained]] to you in the area that you question, but it may not be very [[meaningful]] to you at this [[point]] of your [[experiential]] [[progress]]. This is not meant to be a [[criticism]], but rather to afford you some [[perspective]].

S: I'm just getting a little impatient. I'm a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polliwog polliwog], and I want to learn how to eat flies.

S: I'm just getting a little impatient. I'm a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polliwog polliwog], and I want to learn how to eat flies.

R: Do not be so impatient, little polliwog, that you fling yourself out of the [[water]] that you require to sustain your life.

R: Do not be so impatient, little polliwog, that you fling yourself out of the [[water]] that you require to sustain your life.

Service, in the [[purest]] sense, is that [[action]] which [[the Father]] continuously performs. All [[acts]] of [[the Father]] are [[service]] oriented, constitute service, in [[fact]]. The [[incarnation of Michael]] on [[Urantia]] was service. And in His life in the flesh, His every [[behavior]] [[personified]] [[service]]. If you would serve, do as He would do. When in [[doubt]] ask yourself: "How would [[Jesus]] handle this? What would He do?" He set down a basic [[guide]] for [[conduct]] which some of you know as the [[Golden Rule]]: do unto others as you would have done unto yourself. Where then, comes the [[confusion]]?

Service, in the [[purest]] sense, is that [[action]] which [[the Father]] continuously performs. All [[acts]] of [[the Father]] are [[service]] oriented, constitute service, in [[fact]]. The [[incarnation of Michael]] on [[Urantia]] was service. And in His life in the flesh, His every [[behavior]] [[personified]] [[service]]. If you would serve, do as He would do. When in [[doubt]] ask yourself: "How would [[Jesus]] handle this? What would He do?" He set down a basic [[guide]] for [[conduct]] which some of you know as the [[Golden Rule]]: do unto others as you would have done unto yourself. Where then, comes the [[confusion]]?

Much [[confusion]] regarding [[service]] has been introduced by those who [[strongly]] - who are strongly [[motivated]] by the [[desire]] to gain [[profit]]. The profit [[motive]] has been instrumental in the civilizing of man. It has served much useful [[purpose]]. However, [[service]] and [[profit]] are not the same. When profiteers present the notions of [[service]] to those whom they would [[enslave]], the [[concept]] is [[transformed]] to become one of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Involuntary_servitude servitude] rather than [[service]], with the main [[idea]] being that so-called service consists in relinquishing one's [[material]] [[goods]] and efforts in order to improve one's [[self]] [[spiritually]], and of course, the material goods and [[efforts]] received go on to improve the [[profits]] of the presenter. The most compelling use of this [[logic]] has been put forth by certain [[persons]] in the organized [[religions]] on [[your planet]]. I need not enumerate the [[examples]], for they are most plentiful. But for anyone who has [[doubt]], I must remind you that the way to skylight [[behaviors]] and the [[performance]] of [[service]] have not to do with material [[goods]], gifts, [[bribes]], or the like. [[Motive]] is extremely important in [[understanding]] the true [[nature]] of [[service]].

Much [[confusion]] regarding [[service]] has been introduced by those who [[strongly]] - who are strongly [[motivated]] by the [[desire]] to gain [[profit]]. The profit [[motive]] has been instrumental in the civilizing of man. It has served much useful [[purpose]]. However, [[service]] and [[profit]] are not the same. When profiteers present the notions of [[service]] to those whom they would [[enslave]], the [[concept]] is [[transformed]] to become one of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Involuntary_servitude servitude] rather than [[service]], with the main [[idea]] being that so-called service consists in relinquishing one's [[material]] [[goods]] and efforts in order to improve one's [[self]] [[spiritually]], and of course, the material goods and [[efforts]] received go on to improve the [[profits]] of the presenter. The most compelling use of this [[logic]] has been put forth by certain [[persons]] in the organized [[religions]] on [[your planet]]. I need not enumerate the [[examples]], for they are most plentiful. But for anyone who has [[doubt]], I must remind you that the way to skylight [[behaviors]] and the [[performance]] of [[service]] have not to do with material [[goods]], gifts, [[bribes]], or the like. [[Motive]] is extremely important in [[understanding]] the true [[nature]] of [[service]].

Once you pass from your life in the [[flesh]], your [[perception]] will be greatly increased with regard to the [[motives]] of others. And, in [[fact]], some mortals possess an increased [[awareness]] of this. To the [[seraphim]] and other assistants on [[Urantia]], motive is readily ascertained. [[Service]], when [[performed]], [[eventuates]] in [[spiritual growth]]. There is in the offing a great step forward to be taken by the peoples of [[Urantia]], awaiting merely the [[motive]] and [[desire]]. This is because presently Urantian [[mortals]] are driven by [[profit]] [[motives]]. The addition of service motives, true [[service]] motives, to the existing profit motive, will enable Urantians to take this great forward step toward [[light and life]]. Many of the [[proverbs]] of [[Michael]], [[Jesus]], are guidelines for you if you wish to be more [[service]] oriented and service actuated. For example, "it is better to teach a man to fish than to give him a fish."

Once you pass from your life in the [[flesh]], your [[perception]] will be greatly increased with regard to the [[motives]] of others. And, in [[fact]], some mortals possess an increased [[awareness]] of this. To the [[seraphim]] and other assistants on [[Urantia]], motive is readily ascertained. [[Service]], when [[performed]], [[eventuates]] in [[spiritual growth]]. There is in the offing a great step forward to be taken by the peoples of [[Urantia]], awaiting merely the [[motive]] and [[desire]]. This is because presently Urantian [[mortals]] are driven by [[profit]] [[motives]]. The addition of service motives, true [[service]] motives, to the existing profit motive, will enable Urantians to take this great forward step toward [[light and life]]. Many of the [[proverbs]] of [[Michael]], [[Jesus]], are guidelines for you if you wish to be more [[service]] oriented and service actuated. For example, "it is better to teach a man to fish than to give him a fish."

Today's lesson was to have dealt with [[perseverance]], but in light of your [[discussion]] I shall give a short impromptu instruction on the [[Paper 190 - Morontia Appearances of Jesus|post resurrection period]] as [[illustrated]] for you in The [[Urantia Book]]. In particular, on the [[Spirit of Truth]]. The Spirit of Truth, as you know, was [[bestowed]] upon [[Urantia]] on the day of [[Pentecost]] in the year that [[Jesus]] ascended to [[morontial]] form on [[this planet]]. In that time - although the [[Apostles]] had lived with [[the Master]] for years - they gained more [[spiritual growth]] from commingling with the [[Spirit of Truth]] than they did from the actual [[physical]] [[presence]] of [[Jesus]], who was the [[incarnated]] [[Creator Son]], [[Michael]]. Although you find this hard to really [[believe]] as [[evidenced]] by your own [[failure]] to access this Spirit more often, it is true. The [[Spirit of Truth]] is a mighty [[teacher]], indeed, and a [[tool]] to be used by every [[mortal]] in your quest for [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] and [[growth]]. Although the human [[heart]] longs for more [[physical]] or palpable [[contact]] with [[teacher]] [[personalities]], you have present amongst you the greatest teacher of all, which is this mighty [[Spirit of Truth]]. This Spirit speaks [[clearly]] when sought. You do not have to go anywhere to be in [[touch]] with this spiritual [[force]]. You only have to [[pray]] to be shown and the Spirit will beckon to you in ways that are clearly [[understood]]. [[Confuse]] not the framework of your [[questions]] - which are often erroneous - with the [[clarity]] of the answers.

Today's lesson was to have dealt with [[perseverance]], but in light of your [[discussion]] I shall give a short impromptu instruction on the [[Paper 190 - Morontia Appearances of Jesus|post resurrection period]] as [[illustrated]] for you in The [[Urantia Book]]. In particular, on the [[Spirit of Truth]]. The Spirit of Truth, as you know, was [[bestowed]] upon [[Urantia]] on the day of [[Pentecost]] in the year that [[Jesus]] ascended to [[morontial]] form on [[this planet]]. In that time - although the [[Apostles]] had lived with [[the Master]] for years - they gained more [[spiritual growth]] from commingling with the [[Spirit of Truth]] than they did from the actual [[physical]] [[presence]] of [[Jesus]], who was the [[incarnated]] [[Creator Son]], [[Michael]]. Although you find this hard to really [[believe]] as [[evidenced]] by your own [[failure]] to access this Spirit more often, it is true. The [[Spirit of Truth]] is a mighty [[teacher]], indeed, and a [[tool]] to be used by every [[mortal]] in your quest for [[spiritual]] [[illumination]] and [[growth]]. Although the human [[heart]] longs for more [[physical]] or palpable [[contact]] with [[teacher]] [[personalities]], you have present amongst you the greatest teacher of all, which is this mighty [[Spirit of Truth]]. This Spirit speaks [[clearly]] when sought. You do not have to go anywhere to be in [[touch]] with this spiritual [[force]]. You only have to [[pray]] to be shown and the Spirit will beckon to you in ways that are clearly [[understood]]. [[Confuse]] not the framework of your [[questions]] - which are often erroneous - with the [[clarity]] of the answers.

You often fail to heed or hear this [[spiritual]] [[teacher]] because your questions are unreal. The answers, however, are not, and are always truthful and sure in the [[path]] to [[the Father]]. Sometimes the [[simplicity]] of the signposts [[leads]] you to believe that you have not been heard or answered. [[Trust]] in the [[simple]] things, for they are often the most, the closest to [[God]]. Remember, [[Jesus]] taught with many [[parables]], to learning as children learn, to seeing as children see. [[Simplicity]] is not simple mindedness. Simplicity is often the purest form of spiritual [[insight]]. Because great [[revelations]] as you [[expect]] them to come do not happen, you think that you have not heard [[guidance]]. So perhaps your first rule should be to disregard not a [[simple]] answer, to [[expect]] not the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parting_of_the_red_sea Red Sea to part], but to take instructions for building a [[simple]] canoe to cross the [[sea]]. Your life consists in much [[energy]] spent on [[activities]] which will not be important in your [[spiritual growth]] career, not the activities themselves, but the [[motivation]] behind, is where the [[reality]] lies. Earning a living is important to keep you [[physically]] alive and as a [[functional]] member of your [[society]]. But, the [[motivation]] of hard work, of [[honesty]], and [[perseverance]], of toil, of living [[faithfully]] as a tadpole, these are the [[realities]] which [[survive]] beyond [[this planet]]'s stay.

You often fail to heed or hear this [[spiritual]] [[teacher]] because your questions are unreal. The answers, however, are not, and are always truthful and sure in the [[path]] to [[the Father]]. Sometimes the [[simplicity]] of the signposts [[leads]] you to believe that you have not been heard or answered. [[Trust]] in the [[simple]] things, for they are often the most, the closest to [[God]]. Remember, [[Jesus]] taught with many [[parables]], to learning as children learn, to seeing as children see. [[Simplicity]] is not simple mindedness. Simplicity is often the purest form of spiritual [[insight]]. Because great [[revelations]] as you [[expect]] them to come do not happen, you think that you have not heard [[guidance]]. So perhaps your first rule should be to disregard not a [[simple]] answer, to [[expect]] not the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parting_of_the_red_sea Red Sea to part], but to take instructions for building a [[simple]] canoe to cross the [[sea]]. Your life consists in much [[energy]] spent on [[activities]] which will not be important in your [[spiritual growth]] career, not the activities themselves, but the [[motivation]] behind, is where the [[reality]] lies. Earning a living is important to keep you [[physically]] alive and as a [[functional]] member of your [[society]]. But, the [[motivation]] of hard work, of [[honesty]], and [[perseverance]], of toil, of living [[faithfully]] as a tadpole, these are the [[realities]] which [[survive]] beyond [[this planet]]'s stay.

The [[social]] [[interactions]] that you have are not so important on the day-to-day [[conflicts]] and [[joys]], but viewed more as teamwork and [[learning]] to resolve or live with [[inherent]] [[personality]] [[conflicts]], to outreach your [[understanding]] of your fellows, to include a more spiritual view of your [[brothers and sisters]] which can extend into a sense of [[love]] and [[family]]. These day-to-day activities often take precedence over, or crowd out, your main [[activity]], which should be your [[soul growth]]. The [[Spirit of Truth]] can help you wend your way through the [[maze]] of [[distractions]] that consist of [[Urantia]] life to the higher [[path]] of [[spiritual growth]].

The [[social]] [[interactions]] that you have are not so important on the day-to-day [[conflicts]] and [[joys]], but viewed more as teamwork and [[learning]] to resolve or live with [[inherent]] [[personality]] [[conflicts]], to outreach your [[understanding]] of your fellows, to include a more spiritual view of your [[brothers and sisters]] which can extend into a sense of [[love]] and [[family]]. These day-to-day activities often take precedence over, or crowd out, your main [[activity]], which should be your [[soul growth]]. The [[Spirit of Truth]] can help you wend your way through the [[maze]] of [[distractions]] that consist of [[Urantia]] life to the higher [[path]] of [[spiritual growth]].

A: Yes, yes. Your [[question]] is a very good one. You are sought for [[spiritual]] [[information]] because your own level of [[spiritual growth]] is [[perceived]] by others. And by all means [[proceed]]. Be [[discreet]] and [[protect]] yourself, of course. But you have done very well and will continue to do so. Your [[individual]] [[mission]] is inextricably intertwined with [[the mission]] on [[Urantia]] of restoring the spiritual [[balance]] on [[this planet]] now that the [[universe circuits]] have been reopened and the [[planetary government]] restored. You might say that you have had the luck to be [[born]] at the right time. Of course, once you pass from this [[physical]] life there will be others who take your place as far as reuniting [[Urantia]] and bringing Urantia up to speed, so to speak, in terms of planetary spiritual [[development]]. However your own personal [[mission]] and personal [[spiritual growth]] will be enhanced and much - very much - [[influenced]] by your role here on [[Urantia]], first as [[student]] and [[seeker]], developing into [[teacher]]. Does that answer? (S: Well, great.)

A: Yes, yes. Your [[question]] is a very good one. You are sought for [[spiritual]] [[information]] because your own level of [[spiritual growth]] is [[perceived]] by others. And by all means [[proceed]]. Be [[discreet]] and [[protect]] yourself, of course. But you have done very well and will continue to do so. Your [[individual]] [[mission]] is inextricably intertwined with [[the mission]] on [[Urantia]] of restoring the spiritual [[balance]] on [[this planet]] now that the [[universe circuits]] have been reopened and the [[planetary government]] restored. You might say that you have had the luck to be [[born]] at the right time. Of course, once you pass from this [[physical]] life there will be others who take your place as far as reuniting [[Urantia]] and bringing Urantia up to speed, so to speak, in terms of planetary spiritual [[development]]. However your own personal [[mission]] and personal [[spiritual growth]] will be enhanced and much - very much - [[influenced]] by your role here on [[Urantia]], first as [[student]] and [[seeker]], developing into [[teacher]]. Does that answer? (S: Well, great.)

Q: I would like to see if I [[understand]] parts of today's lesson correctly. You were talking about punishment, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punishment doctrine or theory of punishment], and you said that it was rather unfortunate. Is it more [[accurate]] to say that it is the natural [[consequences]] of breaking spiritual laws instead of punishment? Can we look at it that way?

Q: I would like to see if I [[understand]] parts of today's lesson correctly. You were talking about punishment, the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punishment doctrine or theory of punishment], and you said that it was rather unfortunate. Is it more [[accurate]] to say that it is the natural [[consequences]] of breaking spiritual laws instead of punishment? Can we look at it that way?

R: Could you elaborate?

R: Could you elaborate?

A: Yes. Yes. You put it very well. There is an established [[harmony]] in all of [[the Father|Father]]'s creation. [[Sin]], [[iniquity]], break that [[harmony]]. It is like trying to swim against a [[river]]. It is much, much easier, and more productive, to go with the river than to swim against it. Yes. But [[mortals]] are created imperfect and therefore have great [[difficulty]] with naturally following the [[flow]] of [[the universe]]. There are very strong [[animal]] urges such as the one I alluded to earlier, the [[desire]] for [[comfort]] and ease. Look at the lower [[animals]] on [[Urantia]]. You will [[observe]] that they spend much of their time [[sleeping]]. When they are not seeking [[food]] or [[procreating]] they generally sleep. This is the way of all [[animals]], and it is a very strong urge in man on [[Urantia]], and of will creatures of animal origin on [[other planets]] as well. It has taken many millennia for man to [[accept]] the [[work]] [[ethic]], let alone [[embrace]] it, and even now as you are well [[aware]] there are many who spurn that work ethic to their detriment and, of course, to the detriment of [[the planet]]. A very important part of the work [[assigned]] to the first [[Planetary Prince]] and the first [[Adam and Eve]] of any planet is the teaching of [[work]] to the will [[creatures]] of that planet. And it is done through a [[system]] of [[rewards]].

A: Yes. Yes. You put it very well. There is an established [[harmony]] in all of [[the Father|Father]]'s creation. [[Sin]], [[iniquity]], break that [[harmony]]. It is like trying to swim against a [[river]]. It is much, much easier, and more productive, to go with the river than to swim against it. Yes. But [[mortals]] are created imperfect and therefore have great [[difficulty]] with naturally following the [[flow]] of [[the universe]]. There are very strong [[animal]] urges such as the one I alluded to earlier, the [[desire]] for [[comfort]] and ease. Look at the lower [[animals]] on [[Urantia]]. You will [[observe]] that they spend much of their time [[sleeping]]. When they are not seeking [[food]] or [[procreating]] they generally sleep. This is the way of all [[animals]], and it is a very strong urge in man on [[Urantia]], and of will creatures of animal origin on [[other planets]] as well. It has taken many millennia for man to [[accept]] the [[work]] [[ethic]], let alone [[embrace]] it, and even now as you are well [[aware]] there are many who spurn that work ethic to their detriment and, of course, to the detriment of [[the planet]]. A very important part of the work [[assigned]] to the first [[Planetary Prince]] and the first [[Adam and Eve]] of any planet is the teaching of [[work]] to the will [[creatures]] of that planet. And it is done through a [[system]] of [[rewards]].

It is interesting that you bring up the [[topic]] of [[punishment]]. It is the higher way not to punish for misdeeds but rather to withhold [[rewards]]. To do so helps the [[spirit]] to grow from [[experience]] more than out and out punishment. However, where there are animals involved, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punishment punishment] [[inevitably]] becomes necessary in order to maintain civil order so that work can be done. As [[Urantia]] continues to [[progress]] as a planet spiritually you will see less need to invoke [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corporal_punishment corporal punishment], but that day is not here yet. Indeed, it is far off. [[Lucifer]] erred greatly, and part of his [[doctrine]] was the [[idea]] that the [[desire]] to work would evolve of its own [[volition]] if will creatures of [[animal]] origin were given their own hand. This, of course, is faulty, and has led to much [[suffering]] and has [[retarded]] [[progress]] greatly on [[Urantia|this]] and [[Isolated worlds|other planets]] involved in [[the rebellion]]. But that is behind us now. [[Lucifer]] did not [[recant]] despite the [[abundant]] [[evidence]] that he was incorrect. The basic notion that one will get something for nothing has been proven again and again to be incorrect. Does that answer?

It is interesting that you bring up the [[topic]] of [[punishment]]. It is the higher way not to punish for misdeeds but rather to withhold [[rewards]]. To do so helps the [[spirit]] to grow from [[experience]] more than out and out punishment. However, where there are animals involved, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punishment punishment] [[inevitably]] becomes necessary in order to maintain civil order so that work can be done. As [[Urantia]] continues to [[progress]] as a planet spiritually you will see less need to invoke [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corporal_punishment corporal punishment], but that day is not here yet. Indeed, it is far off. [[Lucifer]] erred greatly, and part of his [[doctrine]] was the [[idea]] that the [[desire]] to work would evolve of its own [[volition]] if will creatures of [[animal]] origin were given their own hand. This, of course, is faulty, and has led to much [[suffering]] and has [[retarded]] [[progress]] greatly on [[Urantia|this]] and [[Isolated worlds|other planets]] involved in [[the rebellion]]. But that is behind us now. [[Lucifer]] did not [[recant]] despite the [[abundant]] [[evidence]] that he was incorrect. The basic notion that one will get something for nothing has been proven again and again to be incorrect. Does that answer?

Q: Yes. It seems to me that when I'm trying to reach the [[stillness]] - and most of the evenings I make the [[effort]] - that I am still not able to [[communicate]] with either you or my [[Thought Adjuster]], but during the day time when I'm working on the [[editing]] of the papers which I [[hope]] we will call "''Rayson and Friends''" that I seem to be guided by you and by my [[Thought Adjuster]] in my selection of [[concepts]] and in editing. Is that correct?

Q: Yes. It seems to me that when I'm trying to reach the [[stillness]] - and most of the evenings I make the [[effort]] - that I am still not able to [[communicate]] with either you or my [[Thought Adjuster]], but during the day time when I'm working on the [[editing]] of the papers which I [[hope]] we will call "''Rayson and Friends''" that I seem to be guided by you and by my [[Thought Adjuster]] in my selection of [[concepts]] and in editing. Is that correct?

Q: Is it normal for us to have periods of forward growth in our [[spiritual growth]]? There is an old saying: one step forward, two steps back. Is it [[normal]] for us to have periods of [[regression]] or that seem like regression? And are they really regressive? Is it possible that we come out of those [[Darkness|black]] periods with more resolve, better [[understanding]]? Or are we just starting over again?

Q: Is it normal for us to have periods of forward growth in our [[spiritual growth]]? There is an old saying: one step forward, two steps back. Is it [[normal]] for us to have periods of [[regression]] or that seem like regression? And are they really regressive? Is it possible that we come out of those [[Darkness|black]] periods with more resolve, better [[understanding]]? Or are we just starting over again?

A: Well, remember again that spiritually only the [[positive]] is perceived, so it is most likely that what you personally [[experience]] is not [[regression]], but rather [[stasis]]. That is, the forward [[progress]] you make may slow or even halt for periods. It is unlikely that anybody in this room today has actually regressed in their [[spiritual growth]], because a true spiritual regression requires [[iniquitous]] [[decision]] making, and none of you have done that. But as I said earlier, at the spiritual level - and this will be far more apparent to you once you pass from the [[material]] life - it is the sense of [[awe]] and [[wonder]] that one gains from forward [[motion]] in the terms of [[spiritual growth]] that is such a strong [[incentive]] for beings to [[journey]] Paradiseward. And a slowing or a [[delay]] in that journey in not necessarily [[painful]], nor is it regressive, but the [[wonder]] and [[awe]] stop. And the cessation of the wonder and awe just is not a desirable state to be in. You are probably experiencing that yourself. Do not be so harsh with yourself. [[Accept]] the [[fact]] that you are not created [[perfect]] and that you are very much [[feeling]] your way in your [[spiritual growth]] on [[this planet]] that has had so much misfortune. You are not in [[conscious]] [[contact]] with the [[universe circuits]], as are beings on [[other planets]]. Rather, your guide is your own [[faith]], and that is far more difficult to follow, far more [[difficult]]. And you have done very well, and will continue to do so. Think about the [[factor]] of [[faith]], and remember that Father punishes no one for a stuttering [[journey]]. In fact, He does not even punish those who decline to take the journey. The only spiritual punishment that exists in [[the universe]] is the lack of [[spiritual]] [[perception]], or [[eventually]], the state of non-being. But this is a [[choice]]. You have not made that choice. None of you has made that choice. Do not let the [[fear]] of [[pagan]] religions and of your own [[animal]] [[heritage]] seep into your spiritual journey. There will be no [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punishment punishment]. You all know that deep inside. [[Think]] of it during the static periods. Even the best need to [[rest]] from time to time. You have read in your [[books]] about the need for [[reversion directors]]. Does that answer? (08/28/93)

A: Well, remember again that spiritually only the [[positive]] is perceived, so it is most likely that what you personally [[experience]] is not [[regression]], but rather [[stasis]]. That is, the forward [[progress]] you make may slow or even halt for periods. It is unlikely that anybody in this room today has actually regressed in their [[spiritual growth]], because a true spiritual regression requires [[iniquitous]] [[decision]] making, and none of you have done that. But as I said earlier, at the spiritual level - and this will be far more apparent to you once you pass from the [[material]] life - it is the sense of [[awe]] and [[wonder]] that one gains from forward [[motion]] in the terms of [[spiritual growth]] that is such a strong [[incentive]] for beings to [[journey]] Paradiseward. And a slowing or a [[delay]] in that journey in not necessarily [[painful]], nor is it regressive, but the [[wonder]] and [[awe]] stop. And the cessation of the wonder and awe just is not a desirable state to be in. You are probably experiencing that yourself. Do not be so harsh with yourself. [[Accept]] the [[fact]] that you are not created [[perfect]] and that you are very much [[feeling]] your way in your [[spiritual growth]] on [[this planet]] that has had so much misfortune. You are not in [[conscious]] [[contact]] with the [[universe circuits]], as are beings on [[other planets]]. Rather, your guide is your own [[faith]], and that is far more difficult to follow, far more [[difficult]]. And you have done very well, and will continue to do so. Think about the [[factor]] of [[faith]], and remember that Father punishes no one for a stuttering [[journey]]. In fact, He does not even punish those who decline to take the journey. The only spiritual punishment that exists in [[the universe]] is the lack of [[spiritual]] [[perception]], or [[eventually]], the state of non-being. But this is a [[choice]]. You have not made that choice. None of you has made that choice. Do not let the [[fear]] of [[pagan]] religions and of your own [[animal]] [[heritage]] seep into your spiritual journey. There will be no [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punishment punishment]. You all know that deep inside. [[Think]] of it during the static periods. Even the best need to [[rest]] from time to time. You have read in your [[books]] about the need for [[reversion directors]]. Does that answer? (08/28/93)

R: Remember again, my [[friends]], that [[spirit growth]] in man does not occur by [[virtue]] of outside [[influence]], material outside influence,. It cannot be [[forced]], persuaded, bought or arranged in any way by another [[being]]. It is, and always shall be, a matter of an [[individual]] [[decision]] to [[accept]] and work with the indwelling [[Thought Adjuster]]. There is every example imaginable of this happening in the face of [[love]], [[kindness]], terrible [[cruelty]] and [[torture]], enormous [[handicap]] and great [[wealth]]. There is no easy [[formula]] that you can follow to [[influence]] your fellows. You must lead your own [[personal]] life as you, in contact with your [[Adjuster]] and your own sense of [[universe]] message, deem appropriate. You are [[responsible]] for yourself while on [[this planet]], and by conducting yourself as [[Jesus]] did you will be doing the most that you can do to positively affect [[this planet]] and your fellow beings. I know that this is hard for you as it was for me. One asks, "But is there not more that I can do? Please, please tell me where can I spread my [[wealth]]? How can I spend my [[time]]? Who can I speak to? What can I do? It must be more [[complicated]] than that." Well, the [[material]] acts of giving, [[speaking]], doing, while well-intentioned are not the way to influence [[spirit growth]] and actually are far easier than working on one's [[self]]. As you endeavor to lead your life [[truthfully]], kindly, with loving and [[goodness]], your [[example]] will be [[observed]] by one and all, and your light will be perceived at least by the [[Thought Adjuster]] of others, if not by their [[conscious]] minds, and there will be a deep [[awareness]] of your [[goodness]] and your [[courage]] and [[faith]]. It requires great [[patience]] to [[persevere]] in this way. Have [[faith]]. But consider the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lighthouse lighthouse]. It does not go to ships, swim across [[waves]]. It faithfully turns. And as the lighthouse [[mechanism]] turns, the searchlight flashes across the [[waters]] through the air, rendering [[service]] to one and all who [[perceive]] its brightness. Be like the lighthouse, my dear. Does that help?

R: Remember again, my [[friends]], that [[spirit growth]] in man does not occur by [[virtue]] of outside [[influence]], material outside influence,. It cannot be [[forced]], persuaded, bought or arranged in any way by another [[being]]. It is, and always shall be, a matter of an [[individual]] [[decision]] to [[accept]] and work with the indwelling [[Thought Adjuster]]. There is every example imaginable of this happening in the face of [[love]], [[kindness]], terrible [[cruelty]] and [[torture]], enormous [[handicap]] and great [[wealth]]. There is no easy [[formula]] that you can follow to [[influence]] your fellows. You must lead your own [[personal]] life as you, in contact with your [[Adjuster]] and your own sense of [[universe]] message, deem appropriate. You are [[responsible]] for yourself while on [[this planet]], and by conducting yourself as [[Jesus]] did you will be doing the most that you can do to positively affect [[this planet]] and your fellow beings. I know that this is hard for you as it was for me. One asks, "But is there not more that I can do? Please, please tell me where can I spread my [[wealth]]? How can I spend my [[time]]? Who can I speak to? What can I do? It must be more [[complicated]] than that." Well, the [[material]] acts of giving, [[speaking]], doing, while well-intentioned are not the way to influence [[spirit growth]] and actually are far easier than working on one's [[self]]. As you endeavor to lead your life [[truthfully]], kindly, with loving and [[goodness]], your [[example]] will be [[observed]] by one and all, and your light will be perceived at least by the [[Thought Adjuster]] of others, if not by their [[conscious]] minds, and there will be a deep [[awareness]] of your [[goodness]] and your [[courage]] and [[faith]]. It requires great [[patience]] to [[persevere]] in this way. Have [[faith]]. But consider the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lighthouse lighthouse]. It does not go to ships, swim across [[waves]]. It faithfully turns. And as the lighthouse [[mechanism]] turns, the searchlight flashes across the [[waters]] through the air, rendering [[service]] to one and all who [[perceive]] its brightness. Be like the lighthouse, my dear. Does that help?

S: Yes. Thank you. It's a [[beautiful]] image. It does help indeed. (10/23/93)

S: Yes. Thank you. It's a [[beautiful]] image. It does help indeed. (10/23/93)

S2: Absolutely.

S2: Absolutely.

R: You would be [[amazed]], each of you, to know how far your own personal [[spiritual]] work actually goes. There is so much that you [[touch]] with each passing [[moment]]. It is truly astonishing, truly a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chain_reaction chain reaction]. The benign contamination of [[spirit growth]] is a very fast growing thing, indeed. I shall now bid you [[farewell]], and I shall look forward to seeing you anon. (12/18/93)

R: You would be [[amazed]], each of you, to know how far your own personal [[spiritual]] work actually goes. There is so much that you [[touch]] with each passing [[moment]]. It is truly astonishing, truly a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chain_reaction chain reaction]. The benign contamination of [[spirit growth]] is a very fast growing thing, indeed. I shall now bid you [[farewell]], and I shall look forward to seeing you anon. (12/18/93)

===='''''[[Spirituality]]'''''====

===='''''[[Spirituality]]'''''====

Yet He managed upon much [[reflective]] [[meditation]], [[prayer]] and [[communication]] with His [[Adjuster]] to create solutions which benefited everyone. He also used the [[technique]] of not disclosing the full [[truth]] before others were ready or [[prepared]] to hear it. As an example, he did not tell others of His [[divine]] nature for many, many years - even after he was sure that He was indeed the [[Son of God]]. So, [[brothers and sisters]], I would like you to use these [[simple]] examples in your own lives every day, for much of the [[stresses]] that you face can be seen to be rooted in a [[conflict]] between [[loyalty]] to higher [[truth]] and duty to one's [[family]] or work situation or culture. And this is the center of how to live "in the world and not be of it." Using the tools of [[spirituality]], there is always a solution. Step outside mindal [[logic]] and [[intellectual]] [[organization]] into the realm of [[higher mind]] and the solution will appear. There need not be [[anxiety]] over the tiny [[decisions]] which we all face in living an [[ascension career]]. On [[Urantia]] in particular there is a large discrepancy between [[behavior]] in the world and what we know to be [[spiritual]] demeanor.

Yet He managed upon much [[reflective]] [[meditation]], [[prayer]] and [[communication]] with His [[Adjuster]] to create solutions which benefited everyone. He also used the [[technique]] of not disclosing the full [[truth]] before others were ready or [[prepared]] to hear it. As an example, he did not tell others of His [[divine]] nature for many, many years - even after he was sure that He was indeed the [[Son of God]]. So, [[brothers and sisters]], I would like you to use these [[simple]] examples in your own lives every day, for much of the [[stresses]] that you face can be seen to be rooted in a [[conflict]] between [[loyalty]] to higher [[truth]] and duty to one's [[family]] or work situation or culture. And this is the center of how to live "in the world and not be of it." Using the tools of [[spirituality]], there is always a solution. Step outside mindal [[logic]] and [[intellectual]] [[organization]] into the realm of [[higher mind]] and the solution will appear. There need not be [[anxiety]] over the tiny [[decisions]] which we all face in living an [[ascension career]]. On [[Urantia]] in particular there is a large discrepancy between [[behavior]] in the world and what we know to be [[spiritual]] demeanor.

However, even [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Year_%E2%88%921 2000 years ago] when the world was much more rigid, [[Jesus]] managed to marry conflicting [[philosophies]] in a way which [[inspired]] many, many others and [[offended]] very few. This is the key to [[spiritual living]] and [[practical]] [[survival]], for one cannot ignore the needs or demands of daily life and [[retreat]] into a spiritual vacuum. Nor can one separate the [[spiritual]] from the [[material]]. Our [[challenge]] is to marry both and thus [[inspire]] others - man to find God, God to find man, or man to see God when he finds Him - as we live. This can be done, but not without a [[conscious]] [[effort]] to achieve it. Too often we [[forget]] our real [[purpose]] for [[existence]], and we make life easier by separating spiritual life from all the rest. So we might pray in the [[morning]] or [[evening]] and then forget [[God]] the rest of the day. This is not how one should live. We must [[integrate]] what we have been given with other situations in order to grow spiritually ourselves, and also to [[inspire]] and uplift our [[brothers and sisters]].

However, even [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Year_%E2%88%921 2000 years ago] when the world was much more rigid, [[Jesus]] managed to marry conflicting [[philosophies]] in a way which [[inspired]] many, many others and [[offended]] very few. This is the key to [[spiritual living]] and [[practical]] [[survival]], for one cannot ignore the needs or demands of daily life and [[retreat]] into a spiritual vacuum. Nor can one separate the [[spiritual]] from the [[material]]. Our [[challenge]] is to marry both and thus [[inspire]] others - man to find God, God to find man, or man to see God when he finds Him - as we live. This can be done, but not without a [[conscious]] [[effort]] to achieve it. Too often we [[forget]] our real [[purpose]] for [[existence]], and we make life easier by separating spiritual life from all the rest. So we might pray in the [[morning]] or [[evening]] and then forget [[God]] the rest of the day. This is not how one should live. We must [[integrate]] what we have been given with other situations in order to grow spiritually ourselves, and also to [[inspire]] and uplift our [[brothers and sisters]].

There probably have been humans you have encountered who you have been drawn to or liked very much, and without knowing why. These [[humans]] possess the [[talent]] - ability to [[reflect]] the [[love]] of God outward. It does not have to come in [[religious]] packages. It is a spiritual [[law]] that beings are always drawn toward [[God]]'s [[love]]. So if we keep God's love as a [[goal]] we are living in spiritual [[reality]] rather than in worldly [[amnesia]]. Although this sounds [[simple]], very few humans have [[achieved]] this consistently on [[Urantia]]. [[Jesus]] is the best example, and there are many [[insights]] in [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=UB#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus part four], in terms of specific [[dilemmas]] which he resolved. You might want to - as you [[read]] - to be [[aware]] of these situations and how they apply to [[spiritual living]] in a largely non-spiritual world. This is perhaps one of the greatest [[gifts]] the life of [[Jesus]] can teach us. You are here for one [[purpose]] only, and that is to know [[God]]. Please keep this more in the forefront of your conscious [[mind]] as you go about your lives. Jesus was no stranger to [[disappointment]] or life's [[vicissitudes]]. The difference between Jesus and the [[average]] [[human]] is that Jesus knew in His [[heart]] that He was a [[Son of God]], and He knew that - He knew what lay ahead [two inaudible words]. Therefore, the [[disappointments]] like the [[death]] of His earthly [[father]], His voluntary giving up of [[education]] and [[career]] for Himself - for He took [[care]] of His [[brothers and sisters]] - His putting aside of His own needs and wants - which like all of us, He longed for [[things]], for [[goals]] for Himself - were relatively easy things for Him to do because He always knew the spiritual [[reality]]. If one [[examines]] His life, you will see that He dealt with as many [[trials]] as you do, sometimes more, and always did he handle these trials with great [[poise]] and [[valor]]. For He always was in deep [[communion]] with the [[heavenly Father]]. Jesus longed for [[comfort]] on a human level as we all do, more so even than we do, because, as His divine nature was [[revealed]] to Him, He knew He could [[share]] this with no one. But He still longed for a best [[friend]] to [[confide]] in, to help ease the burden of His [[responsibility]]. Perhaps [[127:5 Rebecca, The Daughter of Ezra|Rebecca]] came close, but even Jesus had to [[reject]] a life of earthly [[love]] because of His [[divinity]]. As he [[suffered]] this loss, He cared only for her [[feeling]], first. These are more [[examples]] of living in the world and not of it. Not that you should not have a life [[partner]], that is not the point.

There probably have been humans you have encountered who you have been drawn to or liked very much, and without knowing why. These [[humans]] possess the [[talent]] - ability to [[reflect]] the [[love]] of God outward. It does not have to come in [[religious]] packages. It is a spiritual [[law]] that beings are always drawn toward [[God]]'s [[love]]. So if we keep God's love as a [[goal]] we are living in spiritual [[reality]] rather than in worldly [[amnesia]]. Although this sounds [[simple]], very few humans have [[achieved]] this consistently on [[Urantia]]. [[Jesus]] is the best example, and there are many [[insights]] in [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=UB#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus part four], in terms of specific [[dilemmas]] which he resolved. You might want to - as you [[read]] - to be [[aware]] of these situations and how they apply to [[spiritual living]] in a largely non-spiritual world. This is perhaps one of the greatest [[gifts]] the life of [[Jesus]] can teach us. You are here for one [[purpose]] only, and that is to know [[God]]. Please keep this more in the forefront of your conscious [[mind]] as you go about your lives. Jesus was no stranger to [[disappointment]] or life's [[vicissitudes]]. The difference between Jesus and the [[average]] [[human]] is that Jesus knew in His [[heart]] that He was a [[Son of God]], and He knew that - He knew what lay ahead [two inaudible words]. Therefore, the [[disappointments]] like the [[death]] of His earthly [[father]], His voluntary giving up of [[education]] and [[career]] for Himself - for He took [[care]] of His [[brothers and sisters]] - His putting aside of His own needs and wants - which like all of us, He longed for [[things]], for [[goals]] for Himself - were relatively easy things for Him to do because He always knew the spiritual [[reality]]. If one [[examines]] His life, you will see that He dealt with as many [[trials]] as you do, sometimes more, and always did he handle these trials with great [[poise]] and [[valor]]. For He always was in deep [[communion]] with the [[heavenly Father]]. Jesus longed for [[comfort]] on a human level as we all do, more so even than we do, because, as His divine nature was [[revealed]] to Him, He knew He could [[share]] this with no one. But He still longed for a best [[friend]] to [[confide]] in, to help ease the burden of His [[responsibility]]. Perhaps [[127:5 Rebecca, The Daughter of Ezra|Rebecca]] came close, but even Jesus had to [[reject]] a life of earthly [[love]] because of His [[divinity]]. As he [[suffered]] this loss, He cared only for her [[feeling]], first. These are more [[examples]] of living in the world and not of it. Not that you should not have a life [[partner]], that is not the point.

R: It all depends on need, actually; if you are needed, it can happen early. If not, it may never occur. Your [[unique]] and [[individual]] [[personality]] is known to those at high levels and if it can be useful to them they will appeal to you for [[service]].

R: It all depends on need, actually; if you are needed, it can happen early. If not, it may never occur. Your [[unique]] and [[individual]] [[personality]] is known to those at high levels and if it can be useful to them they will appeal to you for [[service]].

S: Rayson, is it possible that [[Christ]] [[Michael]] was actually being [[kind]], in a way, when He pointed out the [[error]] of the ways of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreign_exchange_market money changers] to them?

S: Rayson, is it possible that [[Christ]] [[Michael]] was actually being [[kind]], in a way, when He pointed out the [[error]] of the ways of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreign_exchange_market money changers] to them?

R: That is a good [[question]]. But I am not privy to His [[mind]] record. That is not [[permitted]] for my review.

R: That is a good [[question]]. But I am not privy to His [[mind]] record. That is not [[permitted]] for my review.

R: The [[anger]] [[response]] is a leftover from your [[animal]] origins, and at the time that [[light and life]] are attained, [[anger]] will have fallen away from the [[repertoire]] of [[behavioral]] responses to [[stimuli]] on the part of [[Urantia]] mortals. I am not saying that at this time in the [[development]] of [[the planet]] it may not be a [[response]] that is in accord with the conditions in which you live, but your [[response]], in terms of not [[feeling]] close to [[God]], shows that you yourself understand the limited [[quality]] of [[anger]] in terms of your own [[spirit growth]].

R: The [[anger]] [[response]] is a leftover from your [[animal]] origins, and at the time that [[light and life]] are attained, [[anger]] will have fallen away from the [[repertoire]] of [[behavioral]] responses to [[stimuli]] on the part of [[Urantia]] mortals. I am not saying that at this time in the [[development]] of [[the planet]] it may not be a [[response]] that is in accord with the conditions in which you live, but your [[response]], in terms of not [[feeling]] close to [[God]], shows that you yourself understand the limited [[quality]] of [[anger]] in terms of your own [[spirit growth]].

S: The reason I brought that up was because of a [[book]] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Rubin Theodore Rubin] called [http://books.simonandschuster.com/Angry-Book/Theodore-I-Rubin-MD/9780684842011 The Angry Book] in which he, as a psychiatrist, maintains that unless you really vent [[anger]], it's not something that's harbored or hung on to, but it's an [[emotion]] that if it's not [[expressed]] comes out in deviant [[behavior]] sooner or later. It's saved up like in a slush account. Most of us can easily deal with [[kindness]], or we can deal with [[love]] and [[caring]], but it's more [[difficult]] for us to deal, at times, with [[anger]].

S: The reason I brought that up was because of a [[book]] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Rubin Theodore Rubin] called [https://books.simonandschuster.com/Angry-Book/Theodore-I-Rubin-MD/9780684842011 The Angry Book] in which he, as a psychiatrist, maintains that unless you really vent [[anger]], it's not something that's harbored or hung on to, but it's an [[emotion]] that if it's not [[expressed]] comes out in deviant [[behavior]] sooner or later. It's saved up like in a slush account. Most of us can easily deal with [[kindness]], or we can deal with [[love]] and [[caring]], but it's more [[difficult]] for us to deal, at times, with [[anger]].

R: Do you recall how [[Jesus]] managed [[anger]] as He grew and [[developed]] into His [[ultimate]] role on [[Urantia]]? One instance was already mentioned, but can you [[think]] of others later on?

R: Do you recall how [[Jesus]] managed [[anger]] as He grew and [[developed]] into His [[ultimate]] role on [[Urantia]]? One instance was already mentioned, but can you [[think]] of others later on?