Why do devotees sometimes face difficulty or fall down?

[TODO – Missing verse references + Needs edits]

Devotees sometimes encounter difficulties or experience falldowns in their spiritual journey due to a combination of factors inherent in their conditioned state and the nature of the material world, as highlighted in the sources.

Here are some key reasons:

• Lingering Material Desires and Attachments: Even after initiating spiritual practice, devotees may still possess deep-rooted attachments to material pleasures and worldly affairs. The transcript mentions the need to avoid situations that might reignite these tendencies. The example of Bharata Mahārāja, who fell from a high spiritual platform due to attachment, illustrates this point.
• Impact of Past Karma: The accumulated reactions from past actions can continue to influence a devotee’s life, presenting obstacles and challenges. As stated in the transcript, even elevated devotees may experience temporary setbacks due to past karmic influences.
• Insufficient Association with Devotees (Sādhu-saṅga): Maintaining strong connections with fellow spiritual practitioners is essential for support and progress. The sources indicate that a lack of this association can lead to a loss of protection and an increased vulnerability to material influences.
• The Power of Māyā (Illusory Energy): The material world, being the Lord’s illusory energy, can be very potent in creating distractions and temptations that can lead devotees away from their spiritual focus. The subjective experience influenced by māyā can sometimes make it difficult to discern the right path.
• Need for Constant Effort and Vigilance: Spiritual life requires continuous dedication and watchfulness. Devotees must actively work to avoid circumstances that could lead to a decline in their spiritual practices and mindset.
• Potential for Temporary Setbacks for Growth: Sometimes, a devotee’s falldown might be temporary and serve as a crucial learning experience that ultimately strengthens their resolve and purifies their devotion. The eventual regaining of spiritual consciousness by figures like Bharata Mahārāja exemplifies this.
• Danger of Pride and False Ego: The sources caution against developing pride and considering oneself superior to others, as this can lead to a fall from the path of devotional service.

In summary, the spiritual path is not always linear. Devotees may face hurdles and setbacks due to the enduring influence of past conditionings, the allure of material desires fostered by māyā, the necessity of consistent self-discipline and reliance on the Lord and the devotee community. These difficulties, however, can also serve as opportunities for learning, purification, and ultimately, stronger spiritual advancement.