Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.23.2
Poṣaṇa· The Lord's protectionThe Lord Welcomes Sincere Devotion
“Bali Mahārāja said: What a wonderful effect there is in even attempting to offer respectful obeisances to You! I merely endeavored to offer You obeisances, but nonetheless the attempt was as successful as those of pure devotees. The causeless mercy You have shown to me, a fallen demon, was never achieved even by the demigods or the leaders of the various planets.”
What the purport teaches
- Bali Mahārāja wanted to offer Vāmanadeva obeisances, but the presence of Śukrācārya and other demoniac associates prevented him. Even his inward attempt brought extraordinary mercy.
- The Lord is called bhāva-grāhī janārdana because He accepts the essence of a devotee’s attitude. As the Supersoul, He immediately understands sincere surrender.
- Even when a devotee cannot externally render full service, the Lord welcomes service offered with inner sincerity and seriousness.
Try this today
Offer respectful obeisances to the Lord, inwardly expressing your sincere wish to serve Him.
Ask yourself
Am I bringing sincerity and seriousness to the service I can offer?
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.