1. The idea for today reaffirms your commitment to salvation. \u00b2It also reminds you that you have no function other than that. \u00b3Both these thoughts are obviously necessary for a total commitment. \u2074Salvation cannot be the only purpose you hold while you still cherish others. \u2075The full acceptance of salvation as your only function necessarily entails two phases; the recognition of salvation as your function, and the relinquishment of all the other goals you have invented for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. This is the only way in which you can take your rightful place among the saviors of the world. \u00b2This is the only way in which you can say and mean, \u201cMy only function is the one God gave me.\u201d \u00b3This is the only way in which you can find peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Today, and for a number of days to follow, set aside ten to fifteen minutes for a more sustained practice period, in which you try to understand and accept what the idea for the day really means. \u00b2Today\u2019s idea offers you escape from all your perceived difficulties. \u00b3It places the key to the door of peace, which you have closed upon yourself, in your own hands. \u2074It gives you the answer to all the searching you have done since time began.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Try, if possible, to undertake the daily extended practice periods at approximately the same time each day. \u00b2Try, also, to determine this time in advance, and then adhere to it as closely as possible. \u00b3The purpose of this is to arrange your day so that you have set apart the time for God, as well as for all the trivial purposes and goals you will pursue. \u2074This is part of the long-range disciplinary training your mind needs, so that the Holy Spirit can use it consistently for the purpose He shares with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. For the longer practice period, begin by reviewing the idea for the day. \u00b2Then close your eyes, repeat the idea to yourself once again, and watch your mind carefully to catch whatever thoughts cross it. \u00b3At first, make no attempt to concentrate only on thoughts related to the idea for the day. \u2074Rather, try to uncover each thought that arises to interfere with it. \u2075Note each one as it comes to you, with as little involvement or concern as possible, dismissing each one by telling yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6<\/sup>This thought reflects a goal that is preventing me from accepting my only function.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n 6. After a while, interfering thoughts will become harder to find. \u00b2Try, however, to continue a minute or so longer, attempting to catch a few of the idle thoughts that escaped your attention before, but do not strain or make undue effort in doing this. \u00b3Then tell yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4<\/sup>On this clean slate let my true function be written for me.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n 5<\/sup>You need not use these exact words, but try to get the sense of being willing to have your illusions of purpose be replaced by truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 7. Finally, repeat the idea for today once more, and devote the rest of the practice period to trying to focus on its importance to you, the relief its acceptance will bring you by resolving your conflicts once and for all, and the extent to which you really want salvation in spite of your own foolish ideas to the contrary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 8. In the shorter practice periods, which should be undertaken at least once an hour, use this form in applying today\u2019s idea:<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2<\/sup>My only function is the one God gave me. 3<\/sup>I want no other and I have no other.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n 4<\/sup>Sometimes close your eyes as you practice this, and sometimes keep them open and look about you. 5<\/sup>It is what you see now that will be totally changed when you accept today\u2019s idea completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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