Swamiji on Fear and Suffering

A seeker maintains fear and devotion right from the beginning. If he fails to do so, he will not be able to adhere to the precepts of the Sadguru. Fear and devotion are bound to patience and yearning. This fear and patience is the lifeboat that helps a jiva cross the ocean of the universe. The fear that is eulogized on the spiritual path is not the fear of animals or the fear of being killed by something. It is a fear saturated with love and devotion, a fear that the Beloved may be displeased with your behavior. A seeker is always concerned with the measure of love with the Beloved and his bond with him; he is always afraid of his displeasure.

— Swami Sai Premananda