Live as though only God and yourself were in this world, so that your heart may not be detained by anything human

Live as though only God and yourself were in this world, so that your heart may not be detained by anything human

Saint John of the Cross, a Spanish mystic and poet, is known for his profound spiritual writings that emphasize the importance of detachment from worldly desires in order to achieve union with God. One of his most famous quotes is, “Live as though only God and yourself were in this world, so that your heart may not be detained by anything human.” This statement encapsulates the essence of his teachings on the path to spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine.

For Saint John of the Cross, the key to spiritual growth and closeness to God lies in detachment from worldly distractions and desires. By living as though only God and oneself exist in the world, one is able to focus solely on their relationship with the divine and avoid being swayed by the temptations and distractions of the material world. This detachment allows the individual to cultivate a deeper connection with God and experience a sense of inner peace and fulfillment that transcends earthly concerns.

In his writings, Saint John of the Cross often speaks of the “dark night of the soul,” a period of spiritual purification and growth in which the individual must confront their own weaknesses and attachments in order to progress on the path to union with God. By detaching oneself from worldly desires and distractions, one is able to navigate this dark night with greater clarity and focus, ultimately emerging stronger and more spiritually mature.

Living as though only God and oneself were in the world also requires a deep sense of trust and surrender to the divine will. Saint John of the Cross teaches that true spiritual growth comes from letting go of our own desires and ego in order to align ourselves with God’s plan for our lives. By surrendering to God’s will and trusting in His guidance, we are able to experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment that transcends the limitations of the material world.