Holy Spirit of Jesus, help me not be led astray or be terrified in times of overwhelming events…

Luke 21:5-11
 
When life becomes difficult, there are two major temptations I encounter. At first, I am led astray by all kinds of distractions that purport to bring me a comfortable alternative to the pain and suffering that my present circumstances are causing me. I am often tempted to addict and ‘drown my sorrows’ or to exit from family or societal responsibilities and ‘do my own thing’. If I am led astray, it can take a long time of wandering around in the ‘misty flats’ of life, before I come to my senses, if indeed I ever do return to sanity and the deep dependence on God we are designed to have.  If the powers of darkness cannot lead me astray, then they will attempt to settle into my soul and cause the horrors of unexpected traumas and apprehension of the ‘what ifs’ to terrify me so that my heart, mind and spirit are overwhelmed and eventually paralyzed with fear.  Jesus talked to his disciples at length before his passion about the challenges they will face and how all the earthly establishments, such as the temple itself, will one day fall apart. His counsel to them during these times of suffering ahead was simple: Do not be led astray! And, Do not be terrified!  Will I react to life’s challenges by wandering away from God, or descending into paralyzing terror? Or will I weather the storms of life, stolidly believing in God’s Grace and Mercy?  Holy Spirit of Jesus, help me not be led astray or be terrified in times of overwhelming events.
 
You show me the path of life. In your presence in the fullness of joy.    (Psalm 16:11)
 
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Saint Paul to the Philippians, 4:6-7
 
Soli ad gloriam
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