JKP

Training the Mind in Bhakti

Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat
30 April 2026
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Part 2 of Bhakti Upliftment Series

By Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj

Training the Mind in Bhakti by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat

Many seekers feel discouraged, saying, “My mind does not stay absorbed in God.” But this is only the beginning stage of spiritual practice.

For countless lifetimes, the mind has been attached to the world. Naturally, when we try to turn it toward God, it resists. In the early stages, we must repeatedly withdraw it from worldly thoughts and deliberately fix it on God. This may feel forced at first, but with consistent practice, what feels unnatural today becomes natural tomorrow.

We already understand this principle from our worldly habits. Take the example of smoking. Initially, a person may force himself into it, perhaps to appear modern or to fit in. He coughs, feels discomfort, yet continues. Over time, what began as effort becomes a habit, and eventually an addiction. Even if he wishes to stop, he finds it difficult. The same happens with other habits like alcohol; they gradually overpower the individual.

The mind works in exactly the same way. It can attach itself either to the world or to God.

If our goal is lasting and unlimited happiness, then the mind must be directed toward God. Worldly desires never bring fulfillment; they only multiply, leaving the mind restless and dissatisfied.

The solution is not suppression, but redirection. Replace worldly desires with the desire for God, or gently turn every desire toward Him. Withdraw the mind from that which brings sorrow and attach it to the One who is the embodiment of bliss.

With time and sincere practice, a subtle, higher joy begins to arise. Once this divine joy is experienced, the mind no longer needs to be forced. It naturally becomes absorbed in God.

The lives of saints beautifully illustrate this truth. The great devotee Surdas once said, “O Shyamasundar, You claim to be all-powerful, but I will believe it only if You have the power to leave my heart.” Such was the intensity of his love that even God could not withdraw from him.

This is the power of true devotion. God becomes bound by love.

So do not be disheartened by the restlessness of the mind. Persist patiently. Gradually replace worldly inclinations with divine longing. In time, the mind will stop wandering and rest naturally in God. In that state lies true and lasting fulfillment.

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.