Episode 16 -- Spiritual Combat c10.2 -- A Method for Gaining Purity of Intention

2021-04-06

What is the best method for training my will to have a pure intention of seeking to please God? In out last episode, we began reading Fr Scupoli’s chapter on the need for training our will, our higher will, so that we will not only choose things that please us. The great difficulty is our fallen tendency to want what gives us some satisfaction, some comfort. But Fr Scupoli insists that true Christian perfection involves: Wanting what pleases God. Carrying out what pleases him.

What is the best method for training my will to have a pure intention of seeking to please God?

In out last episode, we began reading Fr Scupoli’s chapter on the need for training our will, our higher will, so that we will not only choose things that please us. The great difficulty is our fallen tendency to want what gives us some satisfaction, some comfort. But Fr Scupoli insists that true Christian perfection involves:

Wanting what pleases God.
Carrying out what pleases him.
BUT ALSO — doing these good things by the inspiration of grace.
AND — carrying them out with a desire to please God.

And so he encourages us to turn to God as soon as any plan or idea for action is presented to us. We must bring the Lord into the picture. Do you want me to do this thing here and now? Is it pleasing to you, O Lord? What would you have me to do?

In this episode, we will continue with his advice on the best method for developing a more pure intention.

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