The Light of Closeness to Hashem Is Eternal

The Light of Closeness to Hashem Is Eternal

After we learned in the last lesson the importance of remaining among those who hope for Hashem, this lesson goes a step further. In truth, there is no reason at all to get discouraged when we see that we're unable to hold our ground in serving Hashem for a very long time. Very often, a person feels the sweetness of tefillah and the light of the words of prayer illuminate his heart, but then he falls just because it seems like he won't be able to maintain this connection for a while. Therefore, Rebbe Nachman teaches us that the temporary closeness that we had is very precious Above, even if it becomes hidden from us.

On a deeper level, the brief connection that we experience shines light into our lives even during dark times. It can help us hold to Yiddishkeit even when it appears to us that we've fallen from our spiritual level. Not only that but even if we've felt closeness to Hashem, just the fact that we're trying to serve Him and to be happy that we're Jews is very great and precious in Hashem's eyes.

L'Ma'aseh-Practically Speaking

We should always remember and believe that the smallest movement to come closer to Hashem gives Him great pleasure, even if we immediately fall away afterwards.