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A Christian who leads his life according to God’s commandments must be tested by various temptations: 1) because the enemy, jealous of our salvation, tries with all sorts of intrigues to hinder us from fulfilling the will of God; 2) because virtue cannot be firm and true unless it is tested by an obstacle contrary to it and remains unshaken. – Why is there always spiritual warfare in our lives? We have many passions hidden within us, and we cannot recognize them until one of them opens up to action. When we see ourselves defeated in something, unable to withstand the scorching arrows of the enemy, then we recognize our weakness, humble ourselves, and do not rely forward on our strength, but resort to the help of the omnipotent God; and our very humility preserves us and attracts His help. When we go through life apparently and piously, having no vices, neither visible nor mental, and although we say and think that we are sinners, we are mistaken; and, comforted by our imaginary virtue, we are deceived and blinded by our minds; and forgetting ourselves, we dare to judge others who are overcome by passions. For this reason, the Lord allows us to experience the ferocity of passions and to be overcome, so that we humble ourselves and truly consider ourselves sinners, having a contrite and humble heart. Someone who practices virtues and even feels some spiritual consolations, but if he does not have temptations, then the door to pride is opened for him, which alone, apart from all vices, leads to spiritual destruction. – When examining ourselves, we must recognize our weaknesses and be afraid to think that we have a feeling that has achieved the love of God: but, strive for it, keep yourself from falling into sin through the fear of God, and the fear of God’s judgment and eternal torment; in defeating some passion, do not despair, but resort to God with repentance and humility, not relying on yourself until the last minute of life; virtue acquired with difficulty and humility is much stronger than that which is easily fulfilled: for this latter conveniently disappears and is lost; moreover, having been tempted in the struggle of passions and having accepted victory and defeat many times, he can give help to those who are tempted, and, knowing his weakness, judge others condescendingly by it; Someone else's conscience is hidden to us. God is able to save him by His destinies, and through sorrow and illness to turn him to the true path. Each of us must give an answer about ourselves; This is what we should take care of. I wrote this to strengthen you in spiritual warfare, so as not to be afraid of attacks from the world, the flesh and the devil; but resist this firmly; even if you happen to suffer wounds, you must immediately rise to battle with humility and God’s help. I. M. February 19, 1837. You might be interested in: