Zeal in the Face of Chaos & Adversity
by Rev. Ric
As the Senior Minister at Unity of Royal Oak, I’ve seen firsthand how the principle of zeal can be a guiding light, especially when life’s challenges threaten to dim our inner glow. In Unity, we understand zeal as the powerful, spiritual energy that drives us to live a purpose-filled life.1 It’s not just a fleeting emotion; it’s a deep, sustained fire within that fuels our enthusiasm and determination. But how do we maintain this fire when the storms of life hit?
The Essence of Zeal
Think of zeal not as a frantic, high-energy state, but as a steady, focused warmth. It’s the conviction that you are a spiritual being with a divine purpose, and this conviction propels you forward even when your external circumstances seem bleak. It’s the inner knowing that you are never alone, that you are connected to a divine power that supports you in all things.
When we feel enthusiastic and passionate, it’s easy to tap into this energy. But the true test of zeal comes when we face adversity. It’s easy to feel inspired when everything is going our way, but what about when we lose a loved one, face a financial setback, or simply feel overwhelmed by the negativity in the world around us?
Tending Your Inner Flame
Maintaining our spiritual zeal requires conscious effort, much like tending a fire. Here are a few ways to keep your inner flame burning brightly:
- Remember Your “Why”: When you feel your enthusiasm waning, reconnect with the core of your purpose. Why did you start this journey? What is the divine truth that you hold for yourself and the world? Returning to your foundational beliefs can rekindle your passion.
Practice Gratitude: It might sound cliché, but gratitude is a powerful antidote to negativity.2 When we focus on what we have, rather than what we lack, we shift our energy from a state of contraction to one of expansion. Take time each day to list a few things you are grateful for, no matter how small.
- Embrace Your Spiritual Community: We are not meant to walk this path alone. Connecting with others who share a similar spiritual outlook can provide much-needed support and encouragement. Sharing our struggles and triumphs within a loving community reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. You are invited to visit us on Sundays at 10 am. In person or online. All are welcome.
- Be a Conduit of Love: When we feel powerless to change the world around us, we can always choose to be a source of Love and light. By offering kindness to a stranger, a word of encouragement to a friend, or simply holding a positive thought for the world, we become active participants in creating the reality we desire. This act of giving fills us with purpose and renews our zeal.
The world will always present challenges, but our spiritual zeal is the inner resource that allows us to meet them with grace and resilience. It’s the unwavering belief that no matter what, the divine light within us can never be extinguished. By consciously tending this inner fire, we not only navigate our own lives with greater ease, but we also become a beacon of hope for others.
Happy Autumn!
In Love,
Rev Ric Beattie
