Conversations with Sai - 9

Swami, it is said that we are responsible for our actions, and that we cannot escape its consequences. Under the circumstances, what benefit can Bhakti [devotion] confer?

After creating everything, God gave man complete freedom to do as he liked. But God has imposed a condition. You may do what you want and enjoy what you desire, but you cannot escape the consequences. You have to face the result. Therefore, you alone are responsible for what happens to you. The good and the bad that happen to you were brought about by you alone. 
You ask: "Why then should we have Bhakti?" 

There is an example that will provide the answer.

You have some land. You may grow onions on it or jasmine - that depends entirely on your wish. But whatever it is, you must pay land tax to the Government. In the same way, you cannot escape the consequences of Karma or your actions. Here there is an important point. Your income tax is dependent on the amount you earn. But there are also tax exemptions. In the same manner, devotion, service, Sadhana, Bhajans etc., all fetch you some rebate from the consequences of your past actions.

(From "Conversations with Sai" - Radio Sai - 1.10.2003)