1. Fear is the fuel.
If guilt, shame, or threats of punishment are what keep you “loyal,” that’s not faith, it’s control.
2. Your worth = obedience.
When your value depends only on how well you follow rules or leaders, you’re trapped in a scheme.
3. Only they have the truth.
If you’re told “we’re the only path to G-d or salvation” while everyone else is condemned, red flag.
4. Money + power only flow up.
When leaders demand your sacrifices but never live them, your devotion is being exploited.
5. Low self-esteem becomes holy.
If you’re told you’re broken, unworthy, or powerless without them, that’s being trained to depend.
6. Questions are rebellion.
Healthy faith welcomes curiosity.
Abuse silences it.
7. Boundaries get erased.
If they pressure you to give more time, money, or loyalty than feels safe, that’s not spiritual, it’s abusive.
Real spirituality lifts you higher. It grows your compassion, your freedom, your connection. If it makes you weaker, more afraid, or stops you from expressing thoughts. it’s not serving G-d.
It’s serving someone else’s control.
Explore the NextSelf Blog. Start with this post explaining the world of souls. And my Youtube.
The blog lists all the difference patterns to study, understanding patterns is how one can develop 'Daas' [felt knowing].
Update: As awe, trust, and love deepen, they can allow greater openness and intimacy with the Creator. That intimacy can include sadness when you notice how much more of His goodness can be revealed.