Our Mindset Determines the God we Get

Introduction

Our mindset and attitudes significantly shape how we perceive and relate to God. This concept highlights the dynamic interaction between our inner life and our spiritual experience. Here’s how our mindset influences our understanding of God:

Perception of God: Our beliefs and attitudes determine how we view God. If we approach God with a mindset focused on justice and retribution, we may emphasise these aspects in our spiritual experience. Conversely, if we embrace a mindset of love and mercy, we are likely to experience God’s compassionate and nurturing qualities.

Spiritual Attitudes: The way we approach our spiritual life—whether with openness, scepticism, or trust—can influence our relationship with God. A mindset that is open and receptive allows us to experience a fuller, more nuanced relationship with the divine, while a closed or resistant mindset may limit our encounter with God’s broader attributes.

Impact on Faith: Our mindset affects how we interpret spiritual experiences and teachings. For example, a mindset focused on fear or judgment may lead us to interpret divine messages as harsh or punitive, while a mindset centred on love and grace may lead us to see them as affirming and supportive.

Role of Choice: The mindset we adopt is often a matter of choice. We can choose to cultivate attitudes of openness, compassion, and trust, which can help us connect more deeply with God. Conversely, choosing to hold onto rigid or negative attitudes can restrict our spiritual growth and understanding.

Personal Transformation: As we work on transforming our mindset and attitudes, we often find that our experience of God deepens and evolves. This transformation allows us to encounter different aspects of the divine and enrich our spiritual journey.

In summary, our mindset plays a crucial role in determining how we experience and relate to God. By consciously choosing to adopt an open and receptive attitude, we can enhance our spiritual connection and encounter a more comprehensive and loving understanding of the divine.

Whatever is received is received according to the mode of the receiver

The principle “quidquid recipitur ad modum recipientis recipitur,” which translates to “whatever is received is received according to the mode of the receiver,” is attributed to the medieval philosopher and theologian John of Damascus (St. John Damascene). He articulated this principle to describe how the nature of what is received is influenced by the recipient’s capacity or condition. This principle is foundational in discussions about knowledge, perception, and divine grace, emphasising that the quality and nature of reception depend on the state or mode of the receiver.

St. John Damascene’s use of the principle can be found in his work De Fide Orthodoxa (“The Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith”). This work is a key source where he discusses theological concepts, including how divine truths are received according to the state of the recipient.

Reference: John Damascene, De Fide Orthodoxa, Book I, Chapter 1: This chapter discusses various aspects of divine knowledge and how it is received.

St. Thomas Aquinas adopted and utilised the principle “quidquid recipitur ad modum recipientis recipitur” in his theological and philosophical work. Aquinas incorporated this principle into his discussions on the nature of knowledge, perception, and the reception of divine grace. He used it to illustrate how the understanding of an object or the reception of divine grace is influenced by the nature and condition of the recipient.

In his works, particularly in the Summa Theologica, Aquinas discusses how the human mind and soul receive and interpret knowledge and grace according to their own conditions and capacities. This principle helps explain why different individuals may have varying experiences and understandings of the same divine truth or revelation based on their personal dispositions and openness.

References: Summa Theologica, I, Q. 12, Art. 12: Aquinas discusses the principle in the context of divine illumination and how knowledge is received according to the mode of the recipient.

Summa Theologica, II-II, Q. 2, Art. 1: In this section, Aquinas addresses the reception of virtues and how the state of the recipient affects their reception.

While these references are often interpretive, they illustrate how Aquinas applied the principle to various theological and philosophical questions. The principle is foundational in understanding how perception, knowledge, and grace operate in relation to the recipient’s capacity.

In the context of the Gospel, this principle can be reflected in various ways:

Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:1-20): The reception of the seed (the Word of God) varies according to the type of soil, which represents different conditions of the human heart. Some hearts are fertile and receive the Word abundantly, while others are rocky or thorny, affecting how the Word is received and whether it bears fruit.

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37): The parable illustrates how the reception of mercy and compassion depends on the openness and willingness of the recipient. The Good Samaritan’s actions demonstrate that the quality of response is influenced by the disposition of the heart towards love and care.

The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12): The blessings pronounced by Jesus are given to those who are in specific states of humility, hunger, and mourning. These states of being influence how the blessings of the Kingdom are received and understood.

In these examples, the principle emphasises that the effectiveness and impact of divine gifts or teachings are contingent upon the receptivity and condition of the person receiving them. It underscores the importance of preparing oneself spiritually and morally to fully embrace and benefit from what is offered.

“whoever has will have more”

The Lord’s statement, “whoever has will have more” (Matthew 13:12; Mark 4:25; Luke 8:18), can be integrated with the principle “quidquid recipitur ad modum recipientis recipitur” to shed light on how receptivity and the condition of the receiver affect the abundance or growth of what is received.

Parable of the Sower: The seed (the Word of God) that falls on fertile soil and is received well will grow and produce a bountiful harvest. In this case, those who have a receptive heart (the good soil) will receive more understanding and spiritual growth. Their initial receptivity leads to a greater capacity to receive even more blessings and insights.

The Good Samaritan: In the story, the Good Samaritan’s compassionate response demonstrates how having a heart inclined towards mercy and love enables one to receive and act upon divine grace more fully. The more one practices compassion, the more one grows in the ability to embody and extend that compassion.

The Beatitudes: Those who exhibit the qualities described in the Beatitudes—such as meekness, mercy, and a hunger for righteousness—are promised blessings and further growth in spiritual richness. Their receptivity to these virtues leads to an increased experience of divine favor and insight.

The Lord’s Prayer: The principle “quidquid recipitur ad modum recipientis recipitur” can be seen as subtly reflected in the Lord’s Prayer. This principle aligns with the invitation to openness and forgiveness that Jesus emphasises in this prayer. Here’s how it connects:

* Forgiveness and Reception of Mercy: In the Our Father, Jesus teaches us to pray for forgiveness and to extend forgiveness to others. He links our ability to receive God’s forgiveness with our willingness to forgive others (Matthew 6:12, 14-15). This reflects the principle that the reception of divine mercy is influenced by our own disposition and actions.

   – Matthew 6:12: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”

   – Matthew 6:14-15: “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

* Openness to Divine Grace: The prayer’s emphasis on forgiveness illustrates that our openness to God’s grace is contingent upon our own openness and readiness to forgive. Our ability to receive God’s mercy is shaped by our willingness to offer mercy to others.

* Mutual Relationship: The reciprocal nature of the Our Father prayer underscores how the state of our heart—reflected in our forgiveness towards others—affects our relationship with God. If we harbour unforgiveness, it creates a barrier to fully experiencing and receiving divine grace.

In summary, the principle “quidquid recipitur ad modum recipientis recipitur” is subtly present in the Our Father through the emphasis on forgiveness and openness. It highlights that our reception of divine mercy is influenced by our own attitudes and actions, illustrating how our spiritual and moral state affects our experience of God’s grace.

In summary, the principle “quidquid recipitur ad modum recipientis recipitur” highlights that the nature and extent of what one receives are influenced by one’s receptivity. When one is open and prepared to receive, one can expect to receive even more. This aligns with the idea that those who have (i.e., those who are already receptive and in a state of grace) will have an abundance of blessings and understanding.

Mental Openness influences how we respond to God’s Grace

Here is an essential aspect of the relationship between human free will and divine action. Our mental and spiritual openness significantly influences how we experience and respond to God’s grace. While God continually offers guidance and blessings, our receptivity plays a crucial role in how much we can receive and benefit from these gifts.

When we are mentally and spiritually open, we align ourselves more closely with God’s will and are better able to recognise and embrace the opportunities for growth and transformation that He offers. Conversely, if we remain closed or resistant, our capacity to experience these divine influences can be limited, even though God respects and honours our free will. This dynamic illustrates the importance of cultivating a receptive and open disposition to fully engage with and benefit from the spiritual journey.

Negative Emotions Create Barriers

There is another profound truth about the human condition and spiritual openness: emotions like anger, deep sadness, or hatred can indeed create barriers that prevent individuals from fully receiving and engaging with divine grace and support. These emotional states can close off one’s heart and mind, making it challenging to perceive and accept the positive influences and guidance that might be offered. Here’s how these states might impact receptivity:

Anger and Hatred: These emotions can create a defensive posture, making it difficult for individuals to experience love, compassion, or forgiveness. When one’s heart is hardened by anger or hatred, it becomes harder to see or accept the positive aspects of life and divine support.

Deep Sadness or Depression: When someone is overwhelmed by sadness or depression, their ability to be open to hope and healing may be diminished. This state can make it hard to recognise or believe in the possibility of positive change or divine intervention.

Closed Mentality: A closed or resistant mindset can prevent individuals from exploring new perspectives or receiving new insights. If one is not willing to consider or accept different viewpoints, including those that might be spiritually enriching, it becomes difficult for divine guidance to penetrate.

In these states, God’s influence and help are indeed present, but the person’s capacity to perceive and accept them can be limited. God respects human free will and the condition of one’s heart, and while divine support is always available, the effectiveness of that support often depends on the individual’s openness and willingness to receive it.

Encouraging individuals to seek emotional and spiritual healing can help them become more open to experiencing and accepting the positive changes and divine assistance available to them.

Spiritual Life and Interpersonal Relationships

Opening one’s heart to others and oneself is essential for fully experiencing God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Here’s why this openness is so important:

Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Forgiving others and ourselves is a fundamental way to open our hearts. Holding onto grudges or self-reproach can create barriers that hinder our ability to receive and experience divine forgiveness. As Jesus teaches in the Gospel, forgiveness is not just a recommendation but a necessity for accessing God’s forgiveness (e.g., Matthew 6:14-15).

Love and Compassion: By opening our hearts to others, we allow ourselves to be vessels of love and compassion. This openness not only enhances our relationships with others but also aligns us more closely with God’s loving nature. The commandment to love one’s neighbour as oneself (Mark 12:31) reflects this deep connection between our relationships with others and our relationship with God.

Self-Acceptance and Healing: Embracing and forgiving oneself is crucial for spiritual and emotional well-being. When we are harsh or unforgiving toward ourselves, it can obstruct our ability to accept and understand God’s mercy and grace. Self-acceptance allows us to see ourselves as God sees us—worthy of love and forgiveness.

Access to Divine Mercy: Opening our hearts in these ways is not just about personal growth but also about creating the conditions where we can fully experience God’s mercy. As we make space in our hearts for others and ourselves, we become more attuned to the presence and influence of divine grace in our lives.

In essence, our openness and forgiveness are not merely about improving our relationships but are deeply connected to our ability to experience and respond to God’s grace. By aligning our hearts with love and forgiveness, we open ourselves to a fuller, richer experience of divine mercy and spiritual growth.

Cultivating an Open and Receptive Mindset

Cultivating an open and receptive mindset is a crucial part of personal and spiritual growth. When we find ourselves being grumpy or upset, it often reflects a closed or resistant mental and emotional state. Actively working to open our hearts and minds can lead to transformative changes. Here’s how this approach can be beneficial:

Mental Openness: Actively seeking new perspectives and being willing to explore different ideas can help us break free from negative thought patterns. This openness can lead to new insights and a more positive outlook on life.

Emotional Resilience: By addressing and managing our emotions, we can reduce their power to control our reactions. Finding healthy ways to cope with feelings of frustration or sadness can lead to greater emotional stability and openness.

Exploring New Horizons: Engaging in new experiences, learning, and personal growth can help us see life from different angles. This exploration can be a source of inspiration and renewal, helping us to move beyond feelings of stagnation or dissatisfaction.

Heartfelt Openness: Opening our hearts to others, showing compassion, and being receptive to their experiences can enrich our own lives and relationships. It also helps us align more closely with the values of love and forgiveness that are central to spiritual and personal well-being.

Choosing to open ourselves to new horizons and approaches allows us to shift from a state of grumpiness and frustration to one of growth, understanding, and fulfillment. This shift not only enhances our personal lives but also aligns us more closely with the broader spiritual principles of love and grace.

Choices and Mental Dispositions

Our choices and mental dispositions play a crucial role in shaping our experiences and outcomes, both in this life and potentially beyond. Here’s a summary of the key points:

Personal Responsibility: We have a significant role in how our lives unfold. Our mental and emotional states, attitudes, and actions influence our well-being and interactions with others. By taking responsibility for our choices and fostering positive mental dispositions, we can create a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

Impact on Others and Ourselves: Our behaviours and attitudes affect not only ourselves but also those around us. By cultivating compassion, forgiveness, and openness, we contribute to healthier relationships and a more supportive environment. Conversely, harbouring negativity or resentment can lead to personal and relational distress.

Spiritual Implications: Our mental and emotional states are also important in the context of spiritual growth and understanding. How we respond to life’s challenges and our openness to divine grace can impact our spiritual journey and relationship with God.

Creating Our Own Experience: We have the power to either uplift or hinder ourselves through our attitudes and choices. By embracing openness, forgiveness, and a willingness to explore new horizons, we can avoid creating our own misery and instead foster a more positive and meaningful existence.

Recognising our role in shaping our lives highlights the importance of intentional living and personal growth. By actively choosing to align ourselves with positive values and practices, we can enhance our overall experience and spiritual journey, avoiding the pitfalls of self-created suffering and moving toward a more fulfilling life.

Mental Illness, Neurological and Genetic Factors

Abuse, mental illnesses, neurological issues, and genetic factors can significantly influence our attitudes and behaviours. These conditions often impact how we perceive and interact with the world, and they can affect our emotional and mental states in ways that are challenging to control. Here’s how these factors play a role:

Abuse: Physical and emotional abuse, particularly from family members, can profoundly impact our perception of God. Our initial understanding of God is often shaped by our parents. If their love presents a distorted or abusive image, it can become a significant barrier to recognizing and experiencing the true nature of God. One must acknowledge that the effort required to heal and develop an accurate image of God, free from distortion, is truly immense.

Mental Illnesses: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and others can profoundly affect a person’s mood, outlook, and overall behaviour. These illnesses can make it difficult to maintain a positive attitude or to engage in typical coping strategies, impacting one’s ability to open up mentally and emotionally.

Neurological Issues: Neurological conditions, like traumatic brain injuries, neurodegenerative diseases, or other disorders affecting brain function, can influence cognitive processes, emotional regulation, and social interactions. These issues can shape a person’s ability to engage with life in certain ways.

Genetic Factors: Genetics can contribute to predispositions toward certain mental health conditions or personality traits. While they are not deterministic, they can influence how one responds to stressors and interacts with the environment.

Addressing These Factors:

Medical and Therapeutic Support: Professional help, including therapy, medication, and other treatments, can be crucial in managing these conditions. Effective treatment can help individuals cope with symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Personal Strategies: Developing coping mechanisms, engaging in supportive communities, and practicing self-care can also play a significant role in managing attitudes and behaviors. 

Understanding and Compassion: Recognizing that mental health conditions and genetic factors influence attitudes can foster greater empathy and support. This understanding helps in creating environments that accommodate and support those dealing with these challenges.

Integration with Spiritual and Personal Growth:

Even with these challenges, personal and spiritual growth is still possible. For instance, individuals can work towards developing resilience, cultivating a supportive environment, and finding meaning and purpose despite the limitations imposed by their conditions. 

The journey involves navigating these factors with a compassionate understanding of oneself and seeking help where needed. By addressing these challenges with a holistic approach, individuals can work towards enhancing their well-being and finding a balanced approach to personal and spiritual growth.

Our Choices influence our Spiritual Experience

Here is a profound and sobering reality. The interplay between our choices, mood, and openness can significantly influence our life’s direction and spiritual experiences. Here’s a deeper look at these aspects:

Importance of Choices: Despite the challenges posed by mental illness, neurological issues, or genetic predispositions, our choices remain pivotal. How we respond to our circumstances, the attitudes we adopt, and the actions we take can shape our path. Making conscious, positive choices helps us navigate difficulties and can lead to personal growth and fulfilment.

Influence of Mood: While mood can strongly influence our outlook and decisions, it shouldn’t have the ultimate power over our choices. Developing strategies to manage and understand our moods can help ensure that they do not unduly dictate our actions or determine our fate.

Overcoming Wounds: Personal wounds and past experiences can deeply impact us, but they do not have to define our future. With healing, self-awareness, and intentional effort, we can address and transcend these wounds, opening ourselves to new possibilities and growth.

Spiritual Reflection: The idea that we “get the God we look for” speaks to how our spiritual perspective and openness shape our experience of the divine. If we seek God with a closed or resistant heart, our experience of Him may be limited. Conversely, an open and receptive approach allows us to encounter God more fully and meaningfully.

Conclusion

This reflection highlights the profound responsibility we have in shaping our lives and spiritual journey. While we cannot always control the challenges we face, we can choose how we respond to them. Our openness, choices, and attitudes play a crucial role in determining our future and our spiritual experience. Embracing this responsibility with intentionality and seeking healing and growth can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Saint Therese of Lisieux

One day St. Thérèse of Lisieux was talking to a novice nun who insisted that God was just and that He punished people accordingly. Despite Thérèse’s efforts to convey a different understanding of God’s kindness and goodness, the nun remained steadfast in her belief. Thérèse then offered her a profound and sobering insight: ‘You will get the God you look for.’ This is a profound spiritual truth. This statement reflects the idea that our conception of God and our spiritual approach can shape our experience of the divine. It can isolate us from the true God. If we stay attached to a certain image of God, it is like an idol. We stay with it. This is profoundly tragic and disturbing: we stay isolated from God. If someone approaches God with a certain mindset—such as a focus on justice and severity—they may encounter aspects of God that align with that view. Here’s a deeper exploration of this concept:

Reflection of Beliefs: Our beliefs and attitudes towards God influence how we perceive and experience Him. If someone believes in a God of strict justice, they may primarily encounter divine attributes related to justice. Conversely, if someone seeks and embraces a God of love and mercy, they may experience those qualities more deeply.

Spiritual Openness: The nature of our relationship with God can be shaped by our openness and receptivity. By approaching God with a heart open to love, mercy, and forgiveness, we can experience a fuller and more profound connection with Him.

Personal Transformation: Our spiritual journey involves an ongoing process of transformation. As we grow and evolve, our understanding and experience of God can also change. Being open to this growth can lead to a more nuanced and comprehensive experience of the divine.

Influence of Attitude: Saint Thérèse’s advice also suggests that our spiritual attitude and expectations play a crucial role. A rigid or narrow view of God can limit our experience, while a more expansive and loving approach can reveal the many dimensions of God’s nature.

In essence, Saint Thérèse’s statement encourages us to reflect on our spiritual attitudes and expectations. By cultivating openness and seeking a broader understanding of God, we can enrich our spiritual experience and encounter the divine more fully.

Conclusion

To truly encounter God, we must be open to letting go of our current understanding of Him in favour of a deeper revelation coming from Him. This means relinquishing any idolised image we have of God and allowing Him to come to us as He truly is. We need to recognise the limitations imposed by our own minds and experiences on our perception of God. While we are instruments in seeking God, it is essential to rely on divine means of Faith—not just any faith, but the faith of Mary. Embracing Mary’s humility and openness allows us to move forward in new spiritual territories and prevents us from becoming stagnant. “Mary, grant us your faith and your vision of God.”