Page 102 - Mystic Pathways through the Bible
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Mystic pathways through the bible
whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.
(KJV Matthew 5:38-40)
Developing positive qualities is essential for attaining Divine perfection. There should be no limit placed on promoting good qualities. Rather, compete with yourself. If you have been humble throughout the last year, try to be humbler still. Persevere until you excel, instead of comparing yourself to others.
In most systems of spiritual practice, moderation is the law; but in the development of virtue, excess is admirable. Ever dare yourself to go a little beyond. That is what Lord Jesus implied in the above statement: When someone slaps you on one cheek, give him the other. To have taken one “slap” without saying anything is good, but to offer your other “cheek” is Divine. These instructions are not meant to be taken literally. Imagine a Christian who has been robbed of one article of clothing running after the thief, exclaiming, “Excuse me, sir, you missed this one!!” While it is necessary to hold people responsible for their negative actions, it is not necessary to harbor hatred or ill will towards them.
Being able to maintain a loftier inner attitude is the spiritual challenge. The implication is to practice your virtue to excess. If you are aiming at an archery
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