The real “war to end all wars” is a spiritual battle, mostly unnoticed by the
world. But of all the wars raging on earth today, this inner war is by far the
most critical, whether the world knows it or not. Victory will come one day,
because the armies of heaven, and their Supreme Commander, will end it.
“The Lord is a Man of war.” (Exodus 15:3) Which is why He is also “the
Prince of Peace,” who says: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you:
not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither
let it be afraid.” (Isaiah 9:6; John 14:27)
(WEO)
new church virtues: spirituality
The New Church is supremely spiritual because its teachings offer the most
comprehensive view of spiritual reality ever revealed; and they explain very
fully the process by which we may transcend our natural state and become
spiritual ourselves. And the Church forms communities in which we can share
our delight in its teachings and support each other in living by them.
When we consider the subjects covered in the Writings we can see what a
treasure trove of spirituality they are:
1. First of all, they reveal the Lord in His second coming as “the Spirit of
truth” who guides us “into all truth.” (John 16:13) The worship based on
this revelation is the highest expression of spirituality imaginable. To
know and love the Lord is the greatest spiritual gift anyone can receive.
2. The Writings reveal the spiritual sense of the Word, hidden within the
literal sense as its very soul. They don’t just reveal that the spiritual sense
exists, but provide a broad and detailed exposition of it. In so doing,
they open our eyes to perceive the spiritual reality that pervades all
creation, and thus restore the spiritual dimension to the world around
us. They heal what many have called the “disenchantment” of our
modern, secular existence.
3. They reveal the spiritual world, telling us many new things about heaven
and hell, as well as the in-between region which newly arrived spirits
first inhabit as the quality of their inner self is gradually brought to light.
And the practical use of knowing about the spiritual world is explained
as we are shown how influences from it affect us even now in this world.
The “angelic wisdom” the Writings reveal can open our minds to the
light of heaven and bring us into a closer relationship with angels and
good spirits.
4. They disclose the spiritual depths of human consciousness, giving us
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