JKP

Free Will: Choosing between God and the World

Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat
29 May 2026
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Part 5 of Bhakti Upliftment Series

Based on the teachings of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj

The scriptures state that every living being is an instrument in the hands of God. He is seated within us and provides the power by which we see, hear, think, and act.

Yet, Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj explains that if this principle is misunderstood, it can lead to great harm in our spiritual journey. If understood correctly, however, it becomes a foundation for true progress.

Let us reflect on this carefully.

If God alone were the doer of all our actions, then how could we ever commit mistakes? God is perfect and all-knowing – so every action performed through us would also be perfect. But this is clearly not our experience. We often act in ignorance and face the consequences of our actions.

If God were the one doing everything, then why would we suffer for those actions? It would imply that God performs the action and makes us bear the result, which would contradict His nature of perfect justice and compassion.

Further, why would God reveal scriptures such as the Vedas, prescribing what is right and wrong? Why would He send saints and divine personalities to guide humanity? If everything were already being done by Him alone, such guidance would be unnecessary.

Some may say that all this is merely God’s play, and no one truly experiences happiness or sorrow. But if that were so, then what would be the purpose of striving for God-realization? Why would liberation or divine knowledge hold any meaning?

Maharaj Ji clarifies the truth beautifully.

God indeed resides within every being and provides the power to act. Without His energy, our senses and mind would be incapable of functioning. The eyes would not see, the ears would not hear, and the body would not act.

But how we use that power – that choice belongs to us.

This is our free will.

Just as electricity from a powerhouse enables all appliances to function, yet it is up to the user to decide which appliance to operate, in the same way, God supplies the power, but we decide how to utilize it.

With that same divine power, a person may choose to go to a place of worship or to a place of worldly enjoyment. One may engage the mind in remembrance of God – or in attachment to the world.

Thus, every action we perform is the result of our own choice.

Understanding this, Maharaj Ji teaches that we must take full responsibility for our actions. We should not blame God for our shortcomings. Instead, we should strive to make the right choices, learn from our mistakes, and gradually purify our mind.

The purpose of this human life is to turn our free will towards God – to seek Him with sincerity and determination.

God gives the power.  But the direction we choose is our own.

Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj

A brief introduction of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj*

(Known by His devotees as Shri Maharaj Ji)

The original title of Jagadguruttam (Greatest Spiritual Teacher of the World) was bestowed upon Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj on January 14, 1957, by Kashi Vidvat Parishad (a council of 500 greatest scholars saints of India). He composed divine texts like Prem Ras Madira, Prem Ras Siddhant, and Radha Govind Geet to lead us on the right path of devotion. He also gave priceless monuments as gifts to the world which include Bhakti Mandir located in Bhakti Dham, Mangarh, Prem Mandir located in Vrindavan Dham, and Kirti Mandir located in Barsana Dham. Shri Maharaj Ji also built hospitals for the impoverished, the Jagadguru Kripalu Chikitsalaya in Vrindavan, Jagadguru Kripalu Chikitsalaya in Barsana, and another one in Pratapgarh. All three help millions of underprivileged to gain free access to medical care. His Kindergarten, School, and College for impoverished girls Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat Education is located in Kunda and provides completely free education. To stay updated with all the news and events of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, visit www.jkp.org.in/jkpwhatsapp.