A Lesson On Spiritual Warfare (Homily Notes for the 1st Sunday of Lent 2014)
The lack of faith and discernment about the reality of Satan has had a terrible effect on the Church. Many people are in bondage because they lack knowledge in this important part of being a Christian.
C.S. Lewis says a fool: someone who doesn’t believe in the devil or becomes to preoccupied with the devil. The nature of temptation:
*Satan tells us God is not trustworthy - God told you that? You can’t trust Him!
*We can get something good out of it. (competing with God and not reverencing the relationship of creature to Creator)
*Once the choice is made - separation from God and oneself is felt. (Deception is felt. You bought into a lie and are worse off) Fighting Temptation: Prayer to take Authority God’s Word/Sacraments Confession Spiritual Direction/Spiritual Friendships Awareness of my weakness (Humility)
(14th Rule of St. Ignatius) Likewise, he behaves as a chief bent on conquering and robbing what he desires: for, as a captain and chief of the army, pitching his camp, and looking at the forces or defenses of a stronghold, attacks it on the weakest side, in like manner the enemy of human nature, roaming about, looks in turn at all our virtues, theological, cardinal and moral; and where he finds us weakest and most in need for our eternal salvation, there he attacks us and aims at taking us. (This is why humility is the greatest weapon. Being honest and asking for the Lord’s help where there is weakness and temptation to fall into sin.)
God is greater! Take authority, stop allowing oppression and call upon the Holy Spirit and the name of Jesus Christ to help you fight the good fight.
Click here for a downloadable (and printable) sheet of prayers including the Prayer to Take Authority.