Spiritual growth can start in many different ways. It may come from reading sacred scriptures like the Bible, listening to praise songs, talking to a preacher, or even watching a religious movie. But probably one of the most influential ways to experience spiritual growth is to actually withstand hardships.
 |
| Image Source: huttshead.wordpress.com |
Many people experience trying times which lead them to ask for help from divine entities. Recent tragedies in the US, like the Boston bombing or the tornado that hit Oklahoma, are examples of this. With so much hurt and confusion, some people tend to grasp hope from things and places they have never relied on before.
 |
| Image Source: spiritualcounselingandlife.com |
Elizabeth Lesser, co-founder of Omega Institute and author of the self-help book Broken Open, believes that people’s terrible experiences here in this world allow them to connect with their spirituality. Interviewed by Oprah, Lesser says that difficult times allow people to open their hearts to majestic things, comparing people to a tightly closed rosebud. “In order for that bud to open and blossom into the flower we love so much, it has to break its shell. It has to break open,” she explained.
 |
| Image Source: theworkofnancyho.com |
The same goes with people. Sometimes, they would have to experience hardships and losses first before they finally realize how blessed they actually are. It is through being lost that people eventually follow that spiritual path.
Mercy Church is a SLO-based religious institution that teaches its members how to become responsible members of society. Learn about the church’s active participation in charitable events by visiting this page.
