Sunday 17 August 2014

Thursday of Week 30 Year 2

There are many things in this world we need to deal with and watch out for. We need to be diligent in our relationship with others; we need to take care of ourselves and our families; we need to be loving and compassionate; so many things which occupy our time. But no matter how busy we are or what needs to be done, we need to be extra careful and cautious when it comes to our efforts in building and maintaining a good relationship with God. This is because evil exists, and evil will find ways and means to distract us and tempt us to sin. Some of us may think that we are capable and strong enough to resist temptation, but let us remember that the evil one knows our weaknesses and would use our weaknesses against us.

This is why, in today's reading, St. Paul advises us: "Grow strong in the Lord, with the strength of his power. Put God’s armour on so as to be able to resist the devil’s tactics. For it is not against human enemies that we have to struggle, but against the Sovereignties and the Powers who originate the darkness in this world, the spiritual army of evil in the heavens. That is why you must rely on God’s armour, or you will not be able to put up any resistance when the worst happens, or have enough resources to hold your ground." Not only do we need to put on God's armour and depend on His care and providence, we also need to be consistent, committed and diligent in our prayer life. St. Paul also reminds us: "Pray all the time, asking for what you need, praying in the Spirit on every possible occasion. Never get tired of staying awake to pray for all the saints..." Sometimes we may feel tired, or we feel as if our prayers are not working or seem to be unheard; but let us remember that God is listening; He may not answer our prayers straightaway, but He will not abandon us. Let us choose to put on His armour and continue to pray, knowing that God will guide us and protect us from evil.

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