I confess that I am a shopaholic. When I give into my weakness, Satan and his evil minions jump at every opportunity to create a divide between God and me.
A good example, is while online shopping, I spent more money than I had anticipated. I reasoned it was a sale too good to miss – after all it’s a “Back to School” sale. I should know better, especially as my own son was prepping for a huge back to school sale at his stores. Well, I fell into the guile’s of advertisement and “deals”.
Recalling afterwards my crazed mind as I put items into my cart and pressed pay, not once but twice, I realized and bemoaned my indulgence into the flesh and prayed seeking God’s forgiveness. Seeking for the strength to turn away from things of this world. Thank goodness our God is merciful.
God has a way of speaking to me that always strikes at my inner core. It results in a deeper understanding of Sacred Scripture:
22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.24 Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! 25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?26 Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
27 “Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! 29 And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30 For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Fatherknows that you need them. 31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Luke 12:22-34
This verse is especially poignant and meaning because it was part of my meditation for the past few weeks. The depth of meaning in it didn’t hit me until I committed the self indulgent deed of falling prey to my own shopping frenzy.
It was only after I’ve fallen to my own vice that I can finally understand Luke 12:22-34.
God is merciful and will continue to guide us to become more aware of the narrow road towards holiness. I am thankful for his teachings, and graceful for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Satan and his minion are ever present and waiting to prey on our weaknesses. Vigilance Is the key. I can only battle evil with the help of Jesus. I came across the work of an Exorcist – Fr. Ripperger through the Augustine Institute. Please take the time to watch the following videos. They will help each of us to battle our brokenness with the help of the triune.
More information on the Augustine Institute:
https://www.augustinestudios.org/formed
God Bless and may our beloved Jesus Christ heal our disorders. 💕🙏
Be Inspired! 