How can a man turn towards God?

Though it is not possible for man to become God, he may try to become God-like. According to Guru Arjan, there is no difference between the God-conscious soul and God.

A man of God may lead the life of a householder or an ascetic. He has to observe strict physical, moral and spiritual discipline. He is not affected by the five deadly sins of lust, anger, greed, attachment or pride. He speaks the truth and leads a pure life. He is indifferent to pain or pleasure, praise or blame. He is humble and weak in spirit. He loves to serve all human beings, birds, beasts. He sees God in all sentient and non-sentient objects.

The true devotee, to progress God-ward, must have complete faith in God. He should minimize his attachment to worldly desire. He should associate with holy people. He should always be ready to sacrifice everything and submit himself to the Will of God. He is not afraid of pain or suffering, when it comes from God. Suffering purifies the soul and makes it worthy to merit union with the Almighty.

The devotee must aspire to true knowledge. Acquiring a knowledge of the truth and practical true living are very important. He should engage whenever it is possible in meditation on “The Name”: and think of God all the time.

A man of God does not remain idle or indifferent to another’s suffering. He engages himself in act of love and charity. He feels happy in doing good to others. This helps in the elimination of selfishness and egoism.

An anchorite must keep clear of any temptations of pitfalls. For this, control over the mind is necessary.

Man in his period of human life should practice holiness so that he may ultimately unite with God and be free from the cycle of birth and death, Guru Arjan says:

“Fix your attention upon the Almighty and you may obtain honour at His court.”

Such persons enjoy the companionship of God at all times.