Day 4

So often we attempt to beat our vices in private. We think ourselves to "manly" to ask for help. However the spiritual life was never intended to be that way. If you try to beat this alone you will most assuredly fail. Christ relates the spiritual life to vine (Himself) and branches (us) not vine and branch. The Christian experience is not just about "me and Jesus." Christ gave us a church and He expects us to use it; He expects us to use each other:

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25

I know the subject matter of lust is embarrassing. In fact it's almost less taboo to be an alcoholic than to have an issue with porn. Don't be embarrassed because that's what Satan wants. Satan wants to keep you isolated. He loves secrets. He loves the darkness, "The way of the wicked is like deep darkness" Proverbs 4:19. Satan humilates but God humbles and enlightens,"I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness" John 12:46.

Last night two of my brothers and I accompanied each other to adoration and prayed the "Chaplet of Divine Mercy". I felt strength praying with them. I've had a similar experience when exercising with my wife. Having company helps the journey and is beneficial to all parties. I really recommend finding a good group of friends to pray with, exercise with, and be accountable with. There is strength in numbers! As the proverb says :

And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

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PRAY:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.