The Six Conditions in Meditation - Part 5: Making Enlightened Consciousness a Lasting State

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The fifth condition of meditation is that it works toward making enlightened consciousness a lasting state of being. Meditation is not intended merely to produce a passing feeling of peace, an unusual vision or a few moments of expanded awareness. Its deeper purpose is to transform how we habitually think, feel, choose and live.

In this context, enlightenment does not mean suddenly knowing everything or becoming spiritually perfect. It means becoming increasingly conscious of our spiritual nature, our relationship with the Divine, and the presence of love, truth and purpose within life. A moment of illumination may give us a glimpse of this reality, but meditation seeks to establish that awareness more firmly within our consciousness.

A temporary spiritual experience may inspire us, but its influence can quickly fade when we return to the pressures of everyday life. We may feel peaceful during meditation and become angry shortly afterward. We may experience love inwardly and then return to criticism, resentment or impatience. The fifth condition teaches that meditation must gradually close the gap between what we experience in silence and how we live throughout the day.

The difference is between having an experience and becoming what the experience reveals. A person may temporarily experience peace, but the goal is to become more peaceful. A person may glimpse oneness, but the goal is to live with greater unity. A person may feel divine love, but the goal is for that love to become a lasting influence upon thoughts, words and actions.

This gradual transformation is described in a simple statement: “Practice makes perfect; and as one practices, puts in use, in word, in deed, day by day, so does one grow in grace, in knowledge, in understanding.”—262-2

The word “perfect” does not imply immediate human perfection. It points toward increasing wholeness, maturity and consistency. Through practice, what was once difficult becomes more natural. What was once only an idea becomes an attitude. What was once a temporary state begins to become a stable quality of character.

This principle may be compared to learning a musical instrument. One inspired performance does not make someone a musician. The ability becomes dependable only through repeated practice. In the same way, one meditation may bring a moment of illumination, but repeated meditation helps spiritual awareness become established within the mind and carried into life.

The readings express a fundamental law underlying this process: “That which the mind of a soul dwells upon it becomes; for mind is the builder.”—262-63

Whatever the mind repeatedly dwells upon is gradually strengthened. If we continually dwell upon fear, anger, resentment, selfishness or hopelessness, these may become established habits of consciousness. If we repeatedly direct the mind toward love, peace, patience, forgiveness, truth and service, these qualities may gradually become part of our character.

Meditation is therefore a process of spiritual formation. We are not merely thinking about an ideal; we are allowing that ideal to reshape the inner pattern of our consciousness. The same reading continues: “If the mind is in attune with the law of the force that brought the soul into being, it becomes spiritualized in its activity.”—262-63

To become “spiritualized in its activity” means that spiritual awareness begins to influence the practical operation of the mind. Our reactions, judgments, desires and decisions become increasingly guided by the higher ideal. Instead of spiritual consciousness appearing only during meditation, it begins to remain active when we speak, work, face difficulties and interact with others.

This is what it means for enlightenment to become firmly established. The light is no longer merely seen for a moment; it becomes a dependable inner guide. The purpose is not to remain in an extraordinary state of ecstasy but to develop a consciousness that continues to recognize and express spiritual truth amid ordinary life.

A temporary altered state—whether produced by emotional excitement, suggestion, exhaustion, chemicals or an unusual experience—may momentarily change perception. However, changed perception is not necessarily transformed consciousness. The important question is what remains after the experience has passed.

Has the individual become more loving? Is there greater self-control? Has fear begun to be replaced by faith? Is the person becoming more patient, forgiving and willing to serve? If no lasting change appears in character or conduct, then the experience, however impressive, has not yet become established as spiritual growth.

The readings repeatedly emphasize gradual development: “Little by little, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little, for the glory of the Father—not the exaltation of thine own self.”—262-27

Lasting enlightenment is built little by little. Each meditation lays another line within consciousness. Each constructive thought strengthens a spiritual pattern. Each time we choose patience instead of irritation, forgiveness instead of resentment, or service instead of selfishness, we make the inner light more stable.

Spiritual development is therefore less like switching on a light for a few moments and more like tending a flame until it burns steadily. At first, the flame may flicker and require protection. With continued attention, it becomes stronger and less easily extinguished by the changing winds of circumstance.

This gradual growth is also described as moving toward a more glorious light: “Turn not back, but press on to the more glorious light that comes with the closer walk with Him day by day.”—281-19

The phrase “day by day” is important. Consciousness is transformed through a continuing relationship, not through one dramatic event. A powerful meditation may encourage us, but ordinary faithfulness establishes the change. Enlightenment becomes lasting when the spiritual ideal is remembered and applied repeatedly.

The goal is for divine love to enter consciousness more and more: “May there come into my consciousness more and more the love of the Father, through the Son, day by day.”—281-19

This affirmation recognizes that spiritual consciousness grows progressively. We may not be able to remain constantly aware of divine love at first, yet each sincere effort increases our capacity to receive, recognize and express it. What once appeared only occasionally may gradually become a continuing influence.

Meditation should therefore produce a change in our inner centre of gravity. Before this change, we may be controlled largely by external circumstances. Praise lifts us, criticism discourages us, difficulties produce fear and disappointment creates resentment. As spiritual consciousness becomes established, our sense of peace becomes less dependent upon what happens around us.

This does not mean that we stop feeling sadness, pain, disappointment or anger. It means that beneath these changing emotions, a deeper foundation begins to develop. We remember that we are more than the passing emotion. We can observe it, learn from it and choose how to respond rather than being completely controlled by it.

A temporary experience changes how we feel for a moment. A lasting spiritual state changes the foundation from which we respond.

The readings describe this stable inner direction as allowing divine light to become a constant guide: “As Thou hast chosen me, O Father, let Thy light, Thy word, be a constant guide before me day by day.”—281-22

The word “constant” expresses the purpose of the fifth condition. Spiritual light is not meant to guide us only during formal meditation. It is intended to remain before us throughout the day—in our conversations, relationships, work, difficulties and decisions.

Meditation helps establish this guidance by repeatedly returning the mind to the spiritual ideal. Each return weakens the control of old mental habits and strengthens the new pattern. Even when the mind wanders, the act of returning is part of the transformation. We are teaching the mind where its true centre lies.

The result is not withdrawal from the world but a more enlightened way of living within it. The individual gradually carries the meditative consciousness into daily activity: “As the application of self to those attributes that have made for the awareness of that consciousness of His presence in the material activities is put into actual actions of self, so does there become the ability to open the way for others.”—262-28

Awareness of the divine presence becomes more securely established when it is applied. Peace becomes stronger when we practise peace. Love becomes more deeply rooted when we act lovingly. Forgiveness becomes part of our nature when we repeatedly choose to forgive. Spiritual understanding becomes lasting when it shapes actual decisions.

This is why meditation and application must remain connected. Meditation plants the spiritual ideal within consciousness, while daily living tests, exercises and strengthens it. Without meditation, we may lose contact with the inner source. Without application, the experience may remain a beautiful but temporary feeling.

The goal is for the higher consciousness to become active rather than merely latent: “Day by day this is put out of the mind, and more and more the mind of harmony, peace, understanding—not a latent kind, but an active force—so does this become the manner in which self is giving expression of that being sought.”—262-4

Peace is not meant to remain hidden within meditation. It must become an active force. This means that it influences our behaviour when we are challenged. Harmony becomes real when we bring it into disagreement. Understanding becomes real when we seek to understand someone with whom we differ. Forgiveness becomes real when we release resentment in an actual relationship.

The enlightened state becomes lasting through both repetition and expression. We repeatedly attune ourselves to the spiritual source and then express that attunement through our conduct. Inner experience and outward application reinforce one another.

The readings describe this growth as an increasing freedom from self-centredness: “Becoming less and less self-centered, less and less selfish; and more and more at peace and in harmony…through their walks with Him in prayer, in meditation.”—262-38

This gives us another practical measure of progress. Enlightenment is not proven by visions, sensations or claims of spiritual importance. It is revealed through decreasing selfishness and increasing peace. It appears when we become less concerned with defending and exalting ourselves and more willing to understand, forgive and serve.

We should not become discouraged when old patterns return. The return of fear, anger or selfish reactions does not mean that meditation has failed. It reveals where further transformation is needed. Each moment of awareness gives us another opportunity to choose again.

The task is not to condemn ourselves for being imperfect but to continue returning to the light: “Keep faithful…Be not weary. Be not slothful. Be not unmindful of that which is set before thee. Turn not back.”—281-19

Over time, repeated choices form character. The peace first experienced only in meditation may begin to remain during difficulty. Compassion may arise before judgment. Forgiveness may come more readily. The spiritual ideal may begin to guide our response before an old habit takes control.

As this happens, meditation is no longer only something we do. It is becoming something we are.

The fifth condition of meditation may therefore be summarized in this way: meditation works to establish spiritual illumination as a stable and active quality of consciousness rather than leaving it as a temporary experience.

The purpose is not merely to visit the light and then return unchanged. It is to receive the light repeatedly, apply it faithfully and allow it gradually to become the enduring foundation of our thoughts, choices, relationships and way of life.

Meaning of Image

The central figure receives a steady light through the mind and heart. The surrounding scenes show that this same light remains present while working, walking, resting, communicating, and helping others. The changing times of day and seasons represent the passage of time and life’s changing circumstances.

The small fading flash in the distance symbolizes a temporary spiritual experience. In contrast, the constant light within the person represents awareness that has become firmly established through meditation and daily application.

The message is that meditation is not simply about experiencing light for a few moments. Its purpose is to help us gradually become the peace, love, wisdom, and understanding we experience within. As the mind continually dwells upon the spiritual ideal, that ideal becomes part of our character and way of life.

The Six Conditions in Meditation - Part 4: Allowing the Infinite to Express Through the Finite

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The fourth condition of meditation is that it allows the Infinite to express through the finite. The Infinite is the unlimited spiritual source of life—God, the Creative Force or the divine presence from which life proceeds. The finite is the individual human being, living through a physical body, a human mind, a distinct personality and the circumstances of earthly life.

Meditation brings these two dimensions of existence into conscious relationship. It opens the inner self so that the wisdom, love, peace and creative power of the spiritual source may enter our awareness and find expression through our thoughts, words, decisions and actions.

Meditation is therefore more than relaxation, reflection or temporary freedom from worry. It is an inward awakening of the soul: “Meditation, then, is prayer, but is prayer from within the inner self, and partakes not only of the physical inner man but the soul that is aroused by the spirit of man from within.”—281-13

Much of the time, our attention remains on the surface of life. We are occupied with responsibilities, relationships, memories, desires, fears and reactions. These are genuine parts of human experience, but they do not represent the whole person. Beneath the surface personality is the deeper spiritual self—the soul—which remains connected with its divine source.

In meditation, the activity of the surface mind becomes quieter. As thoughts concerning material affairs are temporarily set aside, the deeper spiritual consciousness may begin to awaken: “There are definite conditions that arise from within the inner man when an individual enters into true or deep meditation.… The sources of impulse are aroused by the shutting out of thought pertaining to activities or attributes of the carnal forces of man.”—281-13

The purpose is not to destroy the personality or escape from physical life. Meditation places the personality in its proper relationship with the soul. The finite self becomes receptive to the Infinite. The individual does not disappear but becomes a clearer instrument through which spiritual qualities may be expressed.

This inner relationship is described as entering the presence of the Creative Force within: “Then the individual…enters through it into the very presence of that which is the Creative Force from within itself.”—281-13

The Creative Force is not presented as something existing only in a distant heaven. It is also present within the depths of the individual. Meditation gradually quiets the inner noise that prevents us from recognizing this presence. It allows the soul to become more conscious of the spiritual life already dwelling within it.

For this reason, meditation should be approached with a constructive purpose or ideal. Whatever we hold before the mind becomes a pattern through which our inner energies are directed. If the ideal is love, truth, service, mercy or oneness with God, meditation helps those qualities become more active within us: “If there has been set the mark…such that it takes the form of the ideal the individual is holding as its standard to be raised to…then the individual…enters through it into the very presence of that which is the Creative Force from within itself.”—281-13

The ideal is therefore like an inner doorway. It gives direction to meditation and determines the quality of what we seek to express. Meditation without a constructive ideal may remain unfocused or become centred upon sensations, unusual experiences or personal power. Meditation directed by a spiritual ideal seeks not personal importance but closer alignment with the source of love and life.

An altered state of consciousness, by itself, should not be confused with meditation. An unusual experience may temporarily weaken the normal boundaries of the personality, but it does not necessarily mean that body, mind and spirit have been consciously attuned. Neither does it guarantee that habitual reactions have been overcome or that the individual has become more loving, patient and helpful.

Visions, sensations, psychic impressions or feelings of expansion may occur during meditation, but they are not its final purpose. The real test is found in the fruits of the experience. Does it make us kinder? Does it help us forgive? Does it give us greater patience? Does it awaken a desire to serve? Does it bring greater harmony into our relationships?

The readings repeatedly teach that spiritual truth must become visible through human life: “By the fruits ye shall know them.… If their life and the fruits of their lives bring not forth greater manifestations, and those things that are of the spirit, the fruits of the spirit, then they are none of His.”—262-58

The Infinite expresses through the finite whenever a spiritual quality becomes an earthly action. Infinite love becomes kindness toward another person. Infinite mercy becomes forgiveness. Infinite wisdom becomes a wiser decision. Infinite peace becomes calmness during difficulty. Infinite strength becomes courage and perseverance. Infinite healing becomes a comforting word, a helping hand or a compassionate presence.

These manifestations are described in practical terms: “The fruits of the spirit are manifested in thy thoughts, in thy acts day by day as ye meet thy fellow men in their own conditions where troubles, doubts, fears, distresses arise.”—262-58

Meditation cannot therefore be separated from daily living. Its purpose is not completed when the meditation period ends. What is contacted in silence must be carried into our relationships, responsibilities and decisions. The peace found within must be expressed when we encounter conflict. The love felt in meditation must become patience with difficult people. Guidance received inwardly must become constructive action.

Meditation prepares the individual to become a channel. A channel does not originate the power flowing through it; it provides an open passage through which that power may move. In the same way, the individual does not create divine love but may become a means through which it reaches others: “The manner in which each may know they are in attune, is the ability to feel that consciousness of the sincere desire within to be a blessing, a channel, to someone.”—281-3

This gives us an important way to evaluate our meditation. Attunement is not measured only by how peaceful or uplifted we feel. It is also measured by whether we sincerely desire to become a blessing to someone else. The Infinite expresses through the finite when spiritual awareness becomes helpfulness.

The readings therefore connect meditation with humility and singleness of purpose: “Seek through meditation, singleness of purpose, to be guided in that channel in which each may be a channel of blessing to those who seek.”—281-3

To become a channel does not mean losing our individuality. Each person expresses the spiritual source differently. One may express it through teaching, another through healing, another through listening, creativity, parenthood, friendship, encouragement or quiet service. The same Infinite Spirit may take many finite forms.

What must gradually be surrendered is not individuality but self-centredness. The personal self becomes transparent enough for something greater to shine through it: “Be rather as a channel through which the Father may make His love, His glory, manifest in the earth. Listen to the voice from within. For, He is very nigh unto each of you, if ye will but look within.”—262-58

The instruction to look within does not mean withdrawing permanently from the world. It means entering within to discover the spiritual source and then returning to daily life prepared to express it. Meditation takes us inward so that we may live outwardly with greater love, wisdom and purpose.

This process involves spirit, mind and body working together. Spirit is the source of life. Mind receives the spiritual impulse and gives it form. Physical life then reveals the results: “The spirit is the life, the mental is the builder, and the physical or material results are the effects of the application of the knowledge or understanding toward life, light, or the spirit of any effort.”—262-28

This statement describes how the Infinite becomes finite expression. The spiritual source provides the living ideal. The mind builds attitudes, expectations and patterns around that ideal. The body then expresses those patterns through words and actions. Meditation brings these three levels into conscious cooperation.

If the mind is filled with fear, resentment, pride or selfish desire, those patterns will eventually appear in conduct. If the mind is repeatedly attuned to love, patience, mercy and service, these qualities may gradually become visible in the personality. Meditation is therefore not simply about receiving something from the Infinite. It is also about allowing what is received to be built into our character.

The readings describe this as opening an inner door: “Self must open the door that He may enter in. Self will work at that job of bringing that consciousness, that awareness of His presence in the material and mental affairs of life.”—262-28

The door cannot be forced open from outside. Each person must willingly prepare and open the inner self. This involves setting aside selfish motives, choosing a spiritual ideal, quieting the body and mind, and becoming receptive to the divine presence.

When this door is opened, spiritual consciousness begins to be demonstrated in the material world: “The consciousness of His force, power, activity, in every element of action…[is opened by] those who without thought of self have opened the way for the activity of the Christ Consciousness in the material world.”—262-28

Meditation therefore brings responsibility. If we ask to become aware of the Divine, we must also be willing to express what we receive. Spiritual awareness is not given merely for personal comfort. It is meant to become a source of hope, understanding and assistance for others.

This does not usually require spectacular accomplishments. The Infinite is most often expressed through the small actions of ordinary life. Patience with a family member, honesty in business, encouragement offered to someone who is discouraged, or forgiveness toward someone who has caused hurt may all become manifestations of divine life.

The readings emphasize this daily and practical expression: “The glory of the Father will be made manifest through you that are faithful.… Make known in thy daily walks of life, in the little acts of the lessons that have been builded in thine own experience, through those associations of self in meditation and prayer, that His way may be known among men.”—262-27

The phrase “little acts” is especially meaningful. The Infinite does not need to appear only through dramatic visions or miracles. It may be revealed through simple goodness. A gentle response instead of anger, a moment of understanding instead of criticism, or an act of service performed without seeking recognition may express the Divine more clearly than an extraordinary inner experience.

The spiritual life becomes real when it enters the details of human conduct: “As the Father knoweth thee, so may ye know the Father through the exemplifying of His attributes in the earth. Little by little, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little, for the glory of the Father—not the exaltation of thine own self.”—262-27

This expression develops gradually. We should not expect one period of meditation to remove every weakness or permanently transform the personality. Little by little, the mind is renewed. Line upon line, spiritual ideals become established. Each sincere meditation helps create a clearer pathway through which the Infinite may operate.

As the individual continues this practice, self-centredness may gradually decrease: “All may be on fire with the powers that may manifest through them; becoming less and less self-centered, less and less selfish; and more and more at peace and in harmony…through their walks with Him in prayer, in meditation.”—262-38

The power described here is not power over other people. It is the spiritual power to love, serve, heal, encourage and remain peaceful. It is the ability to allow divine qualities to become active in circumstances where the ordinary personality might react with fear, selfishness or anger.

The fourth condition of meditation may therefore be summarized in this way: meditation opens the finite human self to the Infinite spiritual source so that divine life may become conscious within us and practical through us.

The true fulfilment of meditation is not found only in silence, inner light, visions or elevated feelings. It is found when the life contacted within becomes visible without—when love becomes action, wisdom becomes guidance, peace becomes steadiness and spiritual awareness becomes service.

We enter the silence not merely to receive something for ourselves, but to become a clearer channel through which something greater may enter the world.

Meaning of Image

The vast universe and descending light symbolize the unlimited divine source. The meditating person represents the finite human being receiving that light through an awakened mind and heart. The light does not remain within the meditator—it flows outward toward people helping, comforting, and caring for one another.

This shows that meditation is not only an inward experience. Its true purpose is fulfilled when the love, peace, wisdom, and strength received in silence become practical acts of service in everyday life. We become a channel through which divine qualities can enter the world.