Soul Development through Application - Part 6

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READING 262-33

EC: Yes, we have the group as gathered here and their work in preparation of the lesson "In His Presence."

With that which has been given each for their own individual interpretation there is seen, as in general, few have applied same in their everyday experience; for each keeps His presence as a thing apart, something to be experienced, something only made aware of when one is disturbed in some manner or form, when it should be the experience, knowledge and understanding of all that His presence abides with those AS they seek to do His biddings. Not with that outward show which may be experienced by attempting to solve some problem that there may be the enjoying of the reward for same, but rather that there may be the experiencing of the joy, the happiness, the harmony, the love, that fruit which comes from recognizing and using the privileges that are for those who - in their simplicity of manner recognize, know, experience His presence; which abides with thee, wilt thou but recognize, understand its own closeness to thee in thine daily experiences. In this manner, then:

In putting into practice that thou knowest to do, in the LITTLE things, being led by that which has been GIVEN to each, thy contributions may be such from this as to aid others who may seek to know His presence, the joy of His presence, the harmony, the peace that comes with abiding in Him.

...

(Q) Please expand on how we may prepare ourselves that we may abide in His presence.

(A) This would refer rather to the individual experience; for in the preparations of self there are varied consciousnesses, and what to one might be necessary to another would be secondary, and to that which may be the attribute of good judgement, clean living, without thought of same being a command or a law of universal nature; yet as we, as individuals, become more and more conscious - through meditation and prayer, and APPLICATION of that we seek in the way of preparation - of that which keeps or holds, or preserves us as individuals in the consciousness of His presence, we become more conscious of His presence abiding with us, as we let that mind - through meditation and prayer - be in us during and at ALL periods.

Whether in joy, in sorrow, in trouble or in pain, let that mind be in you as was in He that gave, "I am with you ALWAYS, even unto the end of the world."

Will that consciousness of the Christ love make our joys the more joyous, our sorrows the more in accord with the manner in which He met sorrow, or disturbances in the material affairs more in accord with the manner in which HE met the material conditions?

As individuals we oft find that that as He gave, in the "thought of the morrow," or "wherewithal shall ye be clothed" was meant for someone else; NOT us. That consciousness as He gave, "In patience possess ye your souls"; WHAT becomes aware of His presence, the physical-carnal body or the spirit of life that impels the soul in its development?

Then, as His love is shed on us, as we muse and meditate and pray to that we hold as our door to His presence, do we become aware of, do we enter in, do we find ourselves abiding in His presence.

As we may experience by that abiding presence, what are the fruits of same? WORRIES pass away, joys take their place; for as He looked upon Peter in the hour of trial and of denial by him, who had been declared to be - that spoken by him - as the foundations of that He was to leave in the earth, did He frown or did He smile? What broke the heart of the man, the frown or the smile?

Then, when ye abide in His presence, though there may come the trials of every kind, though the tears may flow from the breaking up of the carnal forces within self, the spirit is made glad; even as He in the hour of trial, the hour of denial, SMILED upon him and brought to remembrance - even as He has said to each that has named the Name, "I will bring to remembrance the promises I have made, if ye will abide in my presence." The promises, then, are sure; and not a thing apart from those that abide in His presence, but are ever remembered in the hour not only of sorrow; not only is He the resurrection, not only is He to come in the hour of trial, but He supped also in the hours of joy with those in Cana, He enjoyed even the feast with Zaccheus, laughed and joked. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death - thou art with me; though I fly to the utmost parts of the heavens thou art with me." Will we, as individuals, then, know His presence? How? "If ye love me, keep my commandments." Are they then so burdensome, those commandments? What are His commandments? How may we abide - how may we show the love? "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my little ones, ye have done it unto me."

READING 262-33 EXPLAINED

Reading 262-33 begins by observing a common mistake people make in their spiritual life. Many individuals treat the presence of God as something separate from ordinary life. They think of it as a special state that appears only during prayer, meditation, or moments of difficulty. Often people become aware of God only when they are troubled, confused, or searching for help. In this way, the awareness of the divine becomes something occasional and distant rather than something constant.

However, the reading explains that the divine presence is not meant to be experienced only in rare moments. Instead, it is something that abides continuously with those who seek to live according to divine guidance. The presence of God becomes real when a person actively tries to do what is right, not merely when they perform religious acts or seek rewards for solving spiritual problems. The true experience of the divine presence produces inner qualities such as joy, peace, harmony, and love. These qualities are the natural fruit of living in alignment with the spirit of truth.

A key instruction in the reading is that spiritual growth occurs through the application of truth in small daily actions. The reading emphasizes the “little things” of life. It is not grand spiritual achievements that reveal the divine presence but the consistent practice of goodness in everyday situations. When individuals follow the guidance that has already been given to them—through conscience, prayer, or spiritual understanding—they begin to experience the closeness of the divine more clearly.

When people live this way, their actions begin to influence others. Their lives become examples that help others discover the same awareness of the divine presence. In this sense, soul development is both personal and relational. A person who lives with sincerity and spiritual awareness naturally contributes something valuable to others who are seeking peace, harmony, and understanding.

The reading then explains how individuals can prepare themselves to live in this awareness. Preparation varies for each person, because every individual has different circumstances, habits, and levels of understanding. What helps one person grow spiritually may not be exactly the same for another. Yet certain principles remain important for everyone: good judgment, clean living, meditation, prayer, and especially the application of what one seeks spiritually.

Meditation and prayer help a person quiet the mind and become aware of the deeper spiritual presence within. But the reading makes it clear that meditation alone is not enough. True awareness of the divine comes when a person also applies the attitudes and principles discovered through prayer in daily life. When someone allows the same spirit of love and patience that they experience in prayer to guide their thoughts and actions throughout the day, they begin to feel the presence of Christ more continuously.

The reading encourages individuals to allow this spiritual consciousness to remain active in every circumstance—in joy, in sorrow, in trouble, and in pain. The divine presence is not limited to peaceful moments. It also accompanies people through difficulties and challenges. When a person holds the Christ spirit within their mind and heart, even hardships can become opportunities for spiritual growth.

One of the most powerful insights in the reading is the effect of this presence on the emotional life. When someone truly becomes aware of the divine presence, fear and worry begin to lose their power. Inner peace grows stronger. Joy becomes deeper and more stable. Even when life brings suffering or disappointment, the soul remains strengthened by the awareness that it is not alone.

The reading illustrates this with the story of Peter denying Jesus. When Jesus looked at Peter during that painful moment, the transformation did not come through anger or condemnation. Instead, the power came through compassion and understanding. That loving recognition awakened Peter’s conscience and transformed him. This example shows how divine love works within the human soul—not through punishment, but through remembrance and awakening.

The reading also emphasizes that the promises of Christ are not distant or symbolic. They are meant to be experienced in daily life by those who live in the awareness of His presence. Christ is present not only in moments of suffering but also in moments of joy. He shared meals, celebrations, and ordinary human experiences. This reminds us that spiritual life is not separate from the world; it is meant to be lived within everyday relationships and activities.

Finally, the reading gives a simple test for knowing whether one truly abides in the divine presence. The measure is not mystical experiences or spiritual visions. Instead, it is love expressed through action. When individuals show kindness, compassion, and service to others—especially to those who are overlooked or in need—they demonstrate their love for the divine.

In essence, the reading teaches that soul development happens when spiritual understanding becomes daily practice. Awareness of the divine presence grows when individuals meditate, pray, and then apply what they learn through patience, love, and service. As people live this way, worry fades, joy increases, and the soul gradually becomes more aligned with the spirit of Christ.

The presence of the divine, therefore, is not something distant or rare. It is something that becomes real whenever a person chooses to live in love, patience, and service in the ordinary moments of life.

Soul Development Through Application - Part 5

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READING 262-15

As has been given, in the exercising of the faith does there come to each that as may be given another for their enlightenment.

In the preparations of self, as individuals, as a group, these are of the exercising of that talent or ability as is the heritage of each, plus that as may be gained by the cooperation of one with another in the light of that as is seen in self through that as chosen as the ideal of individual, of the group.

In the manner of presenting same, that as has been chosen that comes through the concerted action of self in response to those surrounding environs, and the seeking of self for that knowledge as will enable self to give expression to that as is experienced within the individual in responding to those opportunities as are presented from day to day to put that as is the experience into active thought, active being; activating, then, one with another, toward that as may be given out to others to enlighten them as respecting their relationships with the creative forces, with their fellow man.

As is seen by those of the first of the lessons, these are builded step by step, that there may be seen that which may become a living truth in the lives of individuals, known and seen of those who may come in contact either with the life of the individuals so applying same, or that as may be given by the group as a whole.

READING 262-15 EXPLAINED

This ASFG Reading 262-15 describes soul development through practical application, especially through how individuals grow spiritually by using their abilities, cooperating with others, and living according to an inner ideal. The emphasis is not on theory or belief alone, but on actively expressing truth in everyday life.

First, the reading explains that preparation for spiritual growth happens both individually and collectively. Every person has certain talents, abilities, and capacities that are part of their spiritual heritage. These abilities are not given merely for personal benefit; they are meant to be developed and exercised. At the same time, growth does not occur in isolation. When individuals cooperate with one another in a group, they gain additional strength, understanding, and insight. Each person contributes their unique ability, and together they create something greater than what any one person could achieve alone.

The key guiding principle in this development is the ideal that the individual or group chooses. An ideal is the vision of what one believes life should move toward—truth, service, compassion, or alignment with the divine. This ideal acts like an internal compass. When a person measures their thoughts and actions against that chosen ideal, they begin to see themselves more clearly. In this way, the ideal becomes a mirror through which the soul understands its own direction and purpose.

The reading then explains how spiritual knowledge becomes real. It is not enough to understand something intellectually. Instead, a person must express what they know through action. Life constantly presents opportunities—small daily situations where one can choose patience, kindness, honesty, or wisdom. When a person consciously responds to these opportunities, their inner experiences become active thought and active being. In other words, the truths they understand internally begin to appear in their behavior and character.

As individuals practice this kind of application, something important begins to happen. Their actions begin to influence others. The process becomes cooperative and dynamic. People who live their ideals encourage and awaken the same qualities in others. Through this shared activity, individuals help one another grow, and together they bring greater awareness to those around them. In this way, spiritual development becomes both personal and communal, spreading outward through example and cooperation.

The purpose of this development is not simply personal enlightenment but service. As individuals apply truth in their own lives, they become capable of helping others better understand their own relationship with the creative forces of life and with fellow human beings. Spiritual growth naturally leads to a deeper sense of connection, responsibility, and compassion.

Finally, the reading emphasizes that this process unfolds gradually and step by step. Spiritual truth is not suddenly mastered. Instead, it is built slowly through repeated practice. Each small application of truth strengthens the soul. Over time, what was once an idea becomes a living truth expressed in daily life.

When this happens, the transformation becomes visible. People who encounter such individuals can see the difference in how they live, act, and relate to others. Likewise, when a group collectively practices these principles, the group itself becomes a living example of spiritual truth in action.

In essence, the message is simple but powerful: soul development occurs when knowledge becomes practice. By exercising one’s abilities, cooperating with others, living according to an ideal, and applying truth in everyday situations, the soul gradually transforms. What begins as understanding eventually becomes character, and character becomes a living influence in the world.

A.R.E. Meeting for 3/9/26

Leader: John
 
Six students of Cayce gathered together to finish the chapter “In His Presence.” We read the last section, “Let Us Remember That Our Guard is Ever in His Presence.”
 
Experiment: Take a few moments each day to use the imaginative forces and create a self-directed reverie to remind us that our souls have written within them a common purposefulness and destiny. You may want to have a special time to do this or use a few minutes before or after your meditation. Allow it to awaken within you the awareness of truly being a part of the scheme of things, and try to hold that awareness in your daily activities.

Soul Development Through Application - Part 4

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READING 257-78

(Q) Have I overcome sufficient karma (as suggested by the Forces) to now proceed on my journey on this plane without Lauterstein? [See 257-10, etc.]

(A) If the lesson has been learned well, to more often keep the mouth shut. THINK, but don't talk too much!

(Q) What relation has karma to my present development, and how can I overcome karma?

(A) This possibly to the entity, to the body-consciousness of [257], would require a whole dissertation in itself. The body little understands the MEANING of karma - but to answer same in a few words: That depends upon whether the ACTUAL of the innate forces are kept in accord with that not as HEARSAY, but as to that KNOWN by the body to be GOD'S way! Karma is, then, that that has been in the past builded as INDIFFERENCE to that KNOWN to be right! Taking chances, as it were - "will do better tomorrow - this suits my purpose today - I'll do better tomorrow." Karma is that; making that correction.

(Q) What is the present development of the mind and soul, as compared with two or three years ago?

(A) That would depend upon from what VISION this was taken, and the comparison as the standard, or the standard of comparison. The DESIRE is much more along the lines of spirituality. The ACTIVITIES are much perturbed by that which is being felt, or being awakened within the inner man. The ability to USE the knowledge as being obtained is still yet JUST blossoming. Be WILLING to be led; not by SPIRITS, but by the SPIRIT of God - Good - Right!

(Q) How can I still further advance into the perfection I seek to attain in the Father's eyes and the fellowman's?

(A) Put into practice day by day that as IS known. Not some great deed or act, or speech, but line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little. Not as sounding of trumpets as to what is being accomplished, but in the quiet of thine own conscience lay the plans for that that may be accomplished, and in the acts day by day so build that as conforms to HIS way; for, as He has given, those that seek to know the Lord and do His biddings shall not go empty-handed; neither shall his seed beg bread.

READING 257-78 EXPLAINED

Reading 257-78 explains soul development through application, especially through the correction of karma and the daily use of what one already knows to be right. The central teaching is that spiritual progress does not come from mystical knowledge alone, nor from dramatic spiritual experiences, but from consistently applying truth in ordinary life.

The first question asks whether the individual has overcome enough karma to move forward without the influence of another person. The answer given is simple but profound: “Keep the mouth shut more often. Think, but do not talk too much.” This instruction points to an important aspect of soul development—self-discipline and inner reflection. Many people weaken their spiritual progress by speaking impulsively, reacting emotionally, or expressing thoughts before they are fully understood. The soul grows when it learns to think deeply, observe carefully, and speak only when words are helpful and constructive.

The reading then explains the meaning of karma in a very practical way. Karma is not described as a mysterious punishment or cosmic accounting system. Instead, Cayce defines karma as the consequences created when a person knowingly ignores what they believe is right. In other words, karma grows out of indifference to conscience. When someone knows the better path but postpones it—saying “I will do better tomorrow”—they create patterns that eventually must be corrected.

This definition of karma is important for soul development because it shows that karma is not primarily about past lives or fate. It is about how the soul responds to truth in the present moment. Every time a person ignores their inner understanding of what is right, they strengthen patterns that later need correction. Conversely, every time they act according to that inner understanding, they dissolve karma and strengthen the soul.

The reading also addresses the current development of the individual’s mind and soul. It says that the desire for spirituality has increased significantly compared to earlier years. This is an important stage in soul growth. Often the awakening of spiritual desire comes before the ability to fully apply spiritual knowledge. As the inner life awakens, a person may feel unsettled or confused because their old habits no longer feel satisfying, while their new understanding is still developing.

The reading describes this stage as a kind of blossoming. The individual has begun to gather knowledge and spiritual insight, but the ability to use that knowledge effectively in daily life is still emerging. This is a common stage in spiritual growth. The soul first becomes aware of deeper truths, then gradually learns how to embody them in actions, decisions, and relationships.

Another important instruction is given: be willing to be led by the Spirit of God, not by spirits. This distinction is significant. It means that the person should not become fascinated with supernatural influences or psychic phenomena. Instead, the guidance sought should come from the inner alignment with goodness, truth, and right action. The true spiritual guide is not external voices or mystical forces but the deeper spirit of truth that awakens within the soul.

The final question asks how the individual can continue advancing toward spiritual perfection. The answer given is the central principle of the reading: apply what is already known. Spiritual progress does not require extraordinary achievements. It does not come from dramatic acts, impressive speeches, or public demonstrations of spirituality. Instead, it grows through small, consistent actions carried out day by day.

The reading describes this process as “line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little.” This means that character is built gradually through repeated choices. Each time a person practices patience, honesty, humility, or kindness, the soul becomes stronger and more aligned with divine purpose.

Another important instruction is to avoid making a show of spiritual progress. The reading advises that the individual should not announce their spiritual accomplishments or draw attention to them. True development happens quietly within the conscience, where intentions and plans are shaped. From that inner place, the person then expresses those values through practical actions in daily life.

In essence, the reading teaches that soul development is a quiet, steady process of aligning action with inner truth. Karma is corrected when a person stops postponing what they know is right and begins practicing it consistently. Spiritual awakening begins with desire, but true transformation occurs when that desire becomes daily application.

When a person lives in this way—thinking carefully, speaking wisely, acting according to conscience, and applying truth little by little—the soul gradually becomes more aligned with the divine will. In that alignment, the individual begins to experience greater clarity, stability, and purpose. The promise given in the reading is that those who sincerely seek to know and follow the divine way will not lack what they need for life’s journey, because their actions will increasingly harmonize with the deeper order of life itself.

Soul Development Through Application - Part 3

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READING 165-21

In giving that as might be helpful to this body in the present experience, the present environments, as we find, the entity should look upon those experiences - through which the entity has passed in many of the mental and the material aspects - rather as a growth of opportunity. And while these would not be in the future as builded upon the ashes of failures, those experiences in the past should be rather as stepping-stones for the future associations in this material plane.

As is known by the entity, as is the portion of the entity's own inner self, as one sows so shall one reap. It is not sufficient, however, for any to live by mere trite sayings or to announce to be tolerant or to be patient or to be any of those attributes of the spiritual forces that may manifest themselves through the activities of an entity. Rather must there be little by little, here a line, there a line, the LIVING, the MANIFESTING, of all of these attributes in the experiences of an individual. For as it is meted to those of the fellow man, so will the returns come in the experience of the entity in its associations in the new activities or in those that are a portion of the entity's experience in the present.

For it is not by might nor by power, not by that which may be used to enable one through fame or fortune - or through even the associations of the past - to become as a power, but that which is LIVED, expressed, given to others as a helpful, hopeful influence in their experience day by day. Thus applying self in the experiences in the present may we find that coming into the experience of the entity which, in body, in mind, may give the greater expression of development for self, for those that are in the material world dependent upon the activities of the entity. So may the entity make for itself that advancement.

For as has been given oft, "As ye do it unto these, the least of these my children, ye do it unto me." He, the Father-God, is not mocked; whatsoever is sown in righteous spirit, whatsoever is thought and done becomes a portion of the experience for the development of any individual, any soul. It is not those that cry, "Lord, Lord," only; but those in their dealings with their fellow man. As ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.

In this age, in this period when there are the doubts, the fears, those seekings for expression in all the many and varied ways, it will be found to keep the balance; that it has ever kept the balance in the activity of an individual, and it may keep the balance in this entity's activities in the present for making the greater advancement, for making of a sureness of self in its daily efforts. While the activities that come about in a general association may be very much in line with those influences that have been given in all the beauties of a life, an experience of service to the fellow man, in the INDIVIDUAL it must become as an individual and as a personal or definite service done day by day. For we grow in grace, in knowledge, in understanding FROM WITHIN. And even though there are the words of the mouth, even the activities of the body, if they are done, if they are MEDITATED upon to be seen, to be feeling, to be making only an outward show, these must eventually come to naught. For the KINGDOM is within. Contentment, peace, harmony, glory, love, beauty, is from WITHIN; and is as a growth that makes for that activity, that expression, that which will bring the growth, the understanding, the environments, the necessary influences. For with all the labors, the efforts, with all the application of beauty, of strength, of power, of might, ONLY God may give the increase.

Then, let thy purpose be, let thy prayer, thy meditation, be more and more, "I am Thine, O Lord; use Thou me more and more as a channel of blessing to my fellow man; in THY way, O Lord, NOT my way!"

READING 165-21 EXPLAINED

This reading is a clear teaching about soul development through daily application, not through ideas alone. The central message is that the soul grows when spiritual principles are lived in ordinary relationships and actions, not merely believed, spoken, or admired. The reading explains that life’s past experiences—including failures—are not meant to define the soul negatively. Instead, they are opportunities for growth that become stepping-stones for future development.

The reading begins by telling the individual to look at past experiences differently. Many people see past mistakes or disappointments as proof of failure. Cayce says the opposite: those experiences should be viewed as growth opportunities. They are not ashes from which nothing can grow; they are stones that help the soul step forward into new understanding. In soul development, the past becomes useful when it is used as wisdom for better action in the present.

The reading then introduces the spiritual law often summarized as “as you sow, so shall you reap.” This means that every thought, attitude, and action plants something in the soul’s experience. However, Cayce emphasizes that simply repeating spiritual sayings or ideas is not enough. Many people talk about patience, tolerance, love, or forgiveness, but the soul grows only when these qualities are lived consistently in real situations. The reading describes this growth as happening “little by little, here a line, there a line.” This means spiritual character is not built in dramatic moments but through steady daily practice.

Another important idea in the reading is that spiritual influence is not created through power, fame, authority, or external success. The world often measures importance through position, wealth, or recognition, but Cayce explains that real spiritual development comes from what is lived and expressed toward others. When a person offers encouragement, kindness, patience, or help to others, these actions strengthen the soul. Each act becomes part of the soul’s development.

The reading reinforces this idea with the teaching attributed to Christ: “As you do it unto the least of these, you do it unto me.” This means that how a person treats ordinary people in daily life reveals their real spiritual condition. Spiritual growth does not come from dramatic religious declarations such as saying “Lord, Lord,” but from how a person behaves in everyday relationships. The law is simple: treat others in the way you would want to be treated.

The reading also speaks about balance. In a world filled with doubts, fears, and many different philosophies, the soul must learn to keep inner balance. Balance means maintaining sincerity, kindness, and clarity even when external circumstances are confusing. This balance allows a person to continue growing spiritually while still functioning in ordinary life responsibilities.

Another important teaching is that service must become personal and practical. It is not enough to support the idea of helping humanity in a general way. Real soul development happens when a person performs specific acts of service in daily life—helping a colleague, supporting family members, encouraging someone who is struggling, or acting honestly in business. Spiritual growth therefore becomes something lived in small but real interactions with others.

The reading also explains that spiritual development happens from within. A person may speak beautiful words or perform outwardly religious actions, but if these are done only to appear spiritual, they eventually lose their value. The inner intention matters. If actions are performed only for appearance or recognition, they become empty. But when they come from sincere inner motivation, they contribute to real soul growth.

Cayce then explains that qualities such as peace, harmony, love, beauty, and contentment arise from the inner life of the soul. These are not created by external circumstances. Instead, they grow gradually within a person who aligns their intentions with the divine spirit. As these qualities grow internally, they begin to influence the person’s environment, relationships, and opportunities.

The reading also gives an important reminder about the limits of human effort. People can work, strive, plan, and apply themselves with strength and determination. Yet ultimately the deeper growth of the soul comes from God. Human effort prepares the soil, but divine influence brings the increase. This perspective prevents pride and keeps the individual humble while continuing to act responsibly.

The reading concludes with a powerful spiritual attitude for soul development. The individual is encouraged to adopt a prayerful intention that says: “I am Thine, O Lord; use me as a channel of blessing to others.” This expresses the highest form of application. Instead of trying to control life according to personal ambition, the soul offers itself as an instrument through which goodness can flow into the world.

In summary, the reading teaches that soul development occurs through practical application of spiritual principles in daily life. Past experiences become lessons rather than failures. Character is built gradually through repeated actions of kindness and integrity. Spirituality is measured not by words or reputation but by how a person treats others. True growth arises from within, and when the soul sincerely aligns itself with divine purpose, its life becomes a channel through which love, service, and understanding flow into the world.