Spiritual Teachers
Are there any people who you regard as helpful spiritual teachers? Perhaps it is a member of the clergy, or an author who writes books on spiritual issues. It could be a co-worker, neighbor or member of your family. Some of us would say that our spiritual teachers have been children facing a terminal illness or people who have overcome personal tragedies.
What criteria do you use in evaluating an effective spiritual teacher? This is a very personal matter and will vary from person to person. I am not suggesting that any human being is to be worshipped, since in my view, no human can fully understand the nature of God.
On your spiritual journey, you may find that learning from other humans is of limited value – and that study of Scripture or other spiritual texts are more useful. You may find that all you need is to pray and listen to God’s answers. There is no right or wrong way, and I respect whatever works for you.
When I refer to spiritual “teachers” in my life, I am not referring to formal teaching sessions that I receive on a regular basis. Some of these teachers have been authors, most of whom I have never personally met. Some have been strangers that crossed my path. Some are friends who would not even be aware of the spiritual lessons they have taught me.
Here are the traits that I look for in a spiritual teacher:
1. Peace of mind/Lack of fear. I am drawn to people who are at peace, and who can maintain that peace, no matter what is going on in their own lives, or in the world around them. If we believe God walks with us, provides for us, and promises us eternal life, there is no reason to worry. And yet 99.9% of the people on this earth, myself included, are worrying. If a person appears to have this “peace that passes all understanding,” then I know I can learn from this individual.
2. Loves themselves and others unconditionally. Virtually every religion and spiritual tradition expresses this principle. Trying to find someone who lives it is not easy!
3. No judgment or criticism. This is related to the concept of unconditional love. If you love people unconditionally, you will not have any need to criticize them or judge them. When I find people who are not judgmental, I always learn a lot by listening to them, carefully observing their behavior, and finding out how they developed this trait.
4. Acceptance of reality AS IT IS and not insisting that things “should” be different. It is very difficult to grow spiritually when you are at war with reality and insisting that God should be running the universe differently. This doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to improve conditions in the world. It means you surrender to God’s Will and realize you can never see the big picture as God sees it.
Well, that’s my list. I need a lot of work in all these areas. But whenever I find someone exhibiting one or more of these characteristics, I know I’ve met someone who can help me grow spiritually. I recognize that no spiritual teacher can do my spiritual “work” for me. They can only point the way and offer some encouragement. I am very grateful for the guidance I have received over the years.
No one religion or spiritual tradition has a “monopoly” on these traits. I have come across people from organized religions – and outside organized religion – who live according to these principles.
What do YOU look for in a spiritual teacher? What teachers have helped you on your spiritual journey?
– Jeff Keller
© 2008