By Sheima Sumer
My purpose for living is to earn the pleasure of God, to purify my soul, and to get closer to God. My happiest experiences are those related to spirituality. When I’m progressing spiritually, I am fulfilling my life’s purpose.
God brings to my life situations and things, like books, that show me the next chapter in my spiritual journey to Him. A few months ago, I had a family conflict, and it was quite stressful. I happened to be reading a book that helped me to deal with the situation. Furthermore, just before I was about to read the book, one day, I heard a loud buzzing sound. I thought it was a dragonfly. I turned my head and saw an amazing hummingbird, flying in a place right above my head; its wings were flapping so quickly that they made a loud buzzing sound. I had never seen a hummingbird in real life! It hovered over me for a few seconds and then flew away. I exclaimed, “Glory be to God!” because I was so shocked to see this angelic creature up close.
I remembered that the day before, the TV channel was randomly on a show about hummingbirds. I knew this was a sign (seeing hummingbirds repeatedly). I had heard of “animal totems,” of how specific animals repeatedly showing up is a message from the spirit world. So, I looked up the animal totem of hummingbird and was amazed that it meant relief after a stressful situation and progress in one’s spiritual journey. After the hummingbird's visit, I did progress spiritually because I began to engage in more spiritual practices.
I believe that God created the universe for us to know Him and to see His attributes in the world. Everything glorifies God in some way. God also created everything out of His mercy and love.
Another purpose of life is to prepare for the next world. This is related to spiritual progress. Our life in the next world will reflect our spiritual progress in this world.
We prepare for the next world by worshipping God through prayers and service to others/good deeds. We should have the intention of honoring and glorifying God when we do our good deeds/acts of worship.
Some people may think that worshipping God is merely done through prayers or rituals. These people should realize that God wants us to love one another and help one another, and doing what God wants/loves is a form of worship.
(Sheima Sumer is an author and a counselor)
Comentários