10 January 2009

Weak


"...No matter what trials He sends us, if we have faith in Him and confidence in our prayers, He will give us the strength to bear them. When doubt assails you, do not despair - kneel before an icon of the Savior and pray; you will feel better at once. The tears you have just shed came from your heart. Always be guided by your heart rather than by your head, and your life will be transformed. Happiness does not consist in living in a palace or enjoying a large fortune; these can be lost. True happiness is something that neither men nor events can take from you. You will find it in Faith, in Hope and in Charity. Try to make those around you happy, and you will be happy yourself."

"...Do not forget your responsibilities; you must set an example and earn the respect of others. The trials you are going through will teach you that life is not just a pastime. Think of all the good you can do! And all the evil! I have prayed much for you, and believe that Our Lord will hear me and help you."
Lost Splendor, the Memoirs of Prince Yussupov Chapter XIII

Holy New Martyr of Russia, Grand Duchess St. Elizabeth Fyodorovna


It is always good to know that where I am weak, there are those who are strong and will pray for me and provide wisdom to me. The lives of the saints are wonderful sources of wisdom and comfort to me. I often find so many parallels between their struggles and mine and it's good to see that I don't have to succumb to passion and temptation. It's not inevitable.

It is, however, hard.

But it can be done and each time, by the grace of God, it becomes a little bit easier and His power would again be shown perfect by my weakness.

Lord have mercy on me, a sinner.

Relevant Verses
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

1 comment:

Suzanna said...

Thank you for these words of encouragement and for being brave enough to share yourself.