(Click to listen: In Sheep’s Clothing)
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? So, every sound tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears evil fruit.” Matthew 7:15-17.
“Jesus … has given us an utterly simple and universally applicable test for Truth. It is a test that any man or woman of any kind, anywhere, can easily apply for himself. It is as simple and direct as the acid test for gold. It is the simple question—does it work?” Emmet Fox
On many occasions I have had people explain in elaborate detail the wonders of some new teaching they have discovered. I certainly understand the excitement of inspiration and I have a genuine appreciation for those writers and those bodies of teachings that have inspired me. What I have come to know, however, is that there are a handful of basic ideas that you will find repeated in all teachings that are capable of making a difference in one’s life. These ideas are free of charge, they are accessible to all, and they can be applied by anyone. The catch is, if they are to work, they must be applied.
The first of these ideas has to do with God as our infinite resource of wisdom, power, love and life. All that we desire boils down to the need for a greater expression of these qualities. Recognizing God as our Source, we start with the idea that our Source is present and expressing freely through us now.
The second idea is that we are created in the image and likeness of God. Knowing this truth awakens us to the Creative Life Force working in and as us now. Doors begin to open and things change.
The third idea is that we can never be separate from God our Source, that even in low moments of feeling separate we are still one. There are no secrets in this universe, there are only truths waiting discovery. Trust yourself and do not be fooled by anything less than this understanding.