How do I concentrate such that I will lose the consciousness of my surroundings?
My initial reaction to this question is: You’re trying too hard.
I have experienced some fairly deep meditation but I can’t say that I really ever became unaware of my surroundings.
There is a point where the experience takes over and because your focus is on your prayer or meditation the influence of ones surroundings goes to zero. It’s not a trance type thing – at least not for me.
Here’s the thing – it’s not necessary to go into a trance state to communicate with God. If you just want to lose consciousness of your surroundings that’s fine – but I don’t really have any advice for you on that. If your goal is to communicate with God – it’s not necessary.
Let me share what I like to do – I’m doing it as I write this.
I like to sit in my recliner with my notebook and favorite pen. I have some soft instrumental music playing – very much in the background. The lighting is soft as well. I’m wearing a favorite pair of flannel pants and a soft pullover. It’s 6:30 am and I’m the only one up at our house. Every once in a while I take a sip of freshly brewed coffee from my favorite cup. (I type it up later from my notebook – in case you were wondering! For some reason the action of writing works better than typing – even though it makes the process longer)
As I’m writing this something important has come up – do you recognize it?
Communicating with God does not have to be a demanding and effortful task. I believe that’s a common misconception.
I’m sitting here very relaxed enjoying my favorite things – music, clothing, coffee, quietness, my fountain pen, a comfy chair and most of all – inspiration from God.
You don’t need to put yourself in strenuous difficult and challenging situations to hear God’s voice. In fact, if you do, your focus is going to be more on that YOU are doing than what God may be speaking.
Relax. Communicating with God isn’t difficult. I should probably say that again.
Communicating with God isn’t difficult.
I reduce the impact and influence of my surroundings by creating a comfortable, quiet space at a time of day when I won’t be interrupted.
This works for me.
Try it!
When I’m answering these questions I write the question at the top of the page. Then I read it and think to myself “I don’t know – I have no idea how to answer that – but God does” Then a thought comes and I write it down and another comes and I write it down and they keep coming and I keep writing and I’m always amazed at what I write and I know God has spoken to me again!
Thank you Father!
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