We won’t protect ourselves against an enemy we don’t believe exists. That’s why Bishop Gruss spent time in April and May discussing the reality of the Evil One, whom St. Ignatius called, “the enemy of human nature.”
“The Evil One assaults us with thoughts,” Bishop Gruss said. “Thoughts that are not of God. He assaults us with an image that may come to our mind, he assaults us with worry, fear and anxiety. He will tell you nothing is evil and encourage you to rationalize any behavior.”
When we surrender to the thoughts and temptations he sends our way, when we don’t make time for prayer, when we find ourselves attached to material things or convince ourselves that sinning is normal or that we are only doing what everyone else does, we give the Evil One power over us.
The Evil One and protection from him
“Do not underestimate the sins you commit,” Bishop Gruss said. “They always render you weaker and deeper into the Evil One’s enslavement. No matter how “little” or venial they may be, venial sins compounded, collect interest, and not for our good.”
So how can we protect ourselves in this spiritual battle for our souls? Bishop Gruss has several suggestions, including:
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