Many consider a cat crossing their path, certain days, or numbers bad omens. Is this just superstition? As long as we don’t take refuge in God and don’t engage in devotion, even favourable circumstances appear unfavourable, and what is unfavourable remains so. When we surrender to God, these concepts of good and bad dissolve, bringing us everlasting happiness. In the refuge of the Lord, no misfortune can harm us, and no planet, star, or deity can bring us ill. God personally protects His devotees at all times.
karaun sada tinh kai rakhavari
jimi balak rakhai mahatari
Shri Ramcharitmanas
I always protect my devotees, just as a mother cares for her child.
The Story of Jadbharat Ji
Jadbharat Ji’s real name was Bharat. In his past life, he was the son of Rishabhdev Ji, who was part of the Swayambhuva lineage. Due to his deep attachment to a deer in that life, he thought of it at the time of death and was reborn as a deer. While in this form, he received the association of saints. After leaving the deer body, he was born as a Brahmin with the memory of his past lives. He intentionally acted like a madman to ensure his devotion remained undisturbed in this life. His family treated him poorly; he worked as a labourer, ate whatever he was given, and slept wherever he found a spot. He accepted happiness, sorrow, honour, and insult equally, remaining physically strong and healthy.
One day, a dacoit who wished to offer a human sacrifice to Bhadrakali for a child was searching for someone to sacrifice. When his original offering escaped, his men saw Jadbharat Ji, appearing healthy and strong, and seized him. They fed him a meal and adorned him with a garland before seating him in front of Bhadrakali for sacrifice. As the dacoit raised his sword, the goddess appeared in fury, snatched the weapon, and beheaded the dacoit with it. The other dacoits fled in terror.
Take Refuge in God
If anyone attempts to harm a devotee surrendered to God, they are bound to meet their end. Fear exists in our lives because we haven’t fully taken refuge in God. God has the power to make the impossible possible and the possible impossible. Why fear loss if we place our trust in such an omnipotent Lord? He can create new realms for us. His will binds our suffering; as His devotees, we trust that whatever He allows is ultimately for our good. Thus, a true devotee remains unafraid, even in the face of death. Without God’s refuge, even small matters disturb us.
No harm can come to one whose heart remembers God. However, if our ego swells, God may allow us to face difficulties to cure us and bring us closer to Him. This is why even great devotees experience challenges in life.
sune rī maiṃne nirabala ke bala rāma
pichalī sākha bharūṅ santana kī, aḍe saṅvāre kāma
Shri Surdas, Sursagar
I’ve heard that God is the strength of the weak. Even ancient saints testify that all misfortunes of a surrendered soul are handled by the Lord Himself.
Seem ki chaanpi sakai kou taasu,
Badh rakhwaar Ramapati jaasu
Shri Ramcharitmanas
Who can possibly transgress the limits of one whose great protector is the Lord Himself?
Past Karmas and Life’s Ups and Downs
Some events may raise doubts about God’s protection. Our past actions influence these, yet we don’t always understand why they happen. If we knew our past karmas and character, we’d realize they’re justified. Even great saints endure severe hardships and illnesses. God resolves the vast account of previous lives with minor suffering to guide them to ultimate bliss, which is often misunderstood due to ignorance.
When we surrender to God, our life becomes fearless, calm, and sorrow-free. Minor issues only affect us if we don’t experience God as the ocean of joy. No planet or star has the power to harm one who has taken shelter in God.
Radhavallabh bhajat bhaji, bhali-bhali sab hoi,
Jite Vinayak shubh-ashubh, vighn karen nahin koi.
Vighn karen nahin koi daren, Kaliyug kaal kasht bhay,
Harain sakal santaap, harash harinam japat jai.
—Shri Hit Sevak Vani, 10.5
Those who worship Radha and Krishna are blessed in every way. No misfortune or evil can touch them.
The Path to Peace and Joy
Chant God’s name and take His refuge; no sorrow can trouble you. Worries, doubts, and fears persist only until we seek the all-powerful God’s shelter. Dedicate daily moments to God through chanting, singing, and meditating on His divine qualities. Even beginning with 24 minutes of devotion a day can uplift every fibre of your being. If we don’t make time for God, we’ll face the consequences of our actions. This solution lies in devotion, not superstitions or charms.
AvashyaMeva Bhoktavyam Kritam Karma Shubhaashubham
Na Bhuktam Kshiyate Karma Janma Koti Shatairapi
We must bear the fruits of all good or bad actions. Unresolved karma persists, even after billions of eons.
Guide: Pujya Shri Hit Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj
