Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.31.21
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesDevotional Service Is True Wealth
“The Supreme Personality of Godhead becomes very dear to those devotees who have no material possessions but are fully happy in possessing the devotional service of the Lord. Indeed, the Lord relishes the devotional activities of such devotees. Those who are puffed up with material education, wealth, aristocracy and fruitive activity are very proud of possessing material things, and they often deride the devotees. Even if such people offer the Lord worship, the Lord never accepts them.”
What the purport teaches
- A pure devotee feels that nothing material belongs to him and is happy in possessing devotional service. Though appearing materially poor, such a devotee is spiritually enriched and very dear to the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
- Pride in education, wealth, aristocracy and fruitive activity can lead people to deride devotees. The Lord does not accept the worship of those who offend His pure devotees.
- Devotees find their happiness in the shelter of the Lord’s lotus feet rather than attachment to material possessions. Those seeking liberation must be very careful not to offend a pure devotee.
Try this today
Before speaking about a devotee today, check your words for pride or ridicule and choose respectful speech.
Ask yourself
Do I measure spiritual worth by devotional service or by material status?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.