Part 19
Once we have reached this understanding, it is certain that each of us will willingly submit to the state to which God has called us and remain in the position He has assigned. If St. Paul required such obedience from the slaves of his time, there is even less excuse for today's hired servants. Let us compare the two situations. As I mentioned earlier, those unfortunate souls were subjected to such harsh treatment that their masters had the power to imprison, confine them in stocks, torture, dismember, and even kill them. It was a dire situation, and their bondage was for life and death, with no set term except among the Jews, where God had established limits.
The common and general law among all nations stipulated that bondsmen and their offspring should remain in bondage indefinitely. So, in this state, a father had no more claim to his child than to a horse or any other beast that produced offspring. Such a situation was as dreadful as a hundred deaths.
Indeed, man has always sought liberty, ease, and the ability to enjoy his bread in peace. These unfortunate slaves did not have the privilege of bread at their own discretion. Concerning their persons, they were in a worse condition than captives, as I mentioned earlier. Nevertheless, God strictly commanded them to bear this state patiently and fulfil their duties faithfully and cheerfully.
Now, what can be said of hired servants today, who can seek employment elsewhere and receive their wages after a year's service, being treated much more kindly and generously than those unfortunate slaves of the past? These servants earned their bread by labouring in their trades and crafts, often having barely enough to eat and drinking water, many times less than they desired. They were confined to cabins and forced to perform their tasks. Therefore, if modern servants cannot bear the state that God has placed upon their shoulders, they are entirely inexcusable. The same can be said of subjects in relation to their magistrates. Thus, since we see that our Lord is lenient with us, we are all the more obligated to adhere to the subjection that St. Paul speaks of here.
Furthermore, we must consider the words regarding a free and cheerful hearted willingness. It is impossible for us to find any satisfaction or joy in our state or calling unless we know that it is for our benefit and well-being. We cannot derive great profit from serving creatures. Therefore, we must always turn to our God, aiming for the mark that, since He has been so good and gracious to us by placing us in this world and sustaining us here, and has shown Himself to be such a good Father to us, providing all that we have, we must show reverence to His Majesty. We should strive to please Him in such a way that we do not hesitate to be subject to men or take it as a source of grief or scorn. In this way, our state will be greatly sweetened when we know that God accepts it as a good offering from us.
That is also why St. Paul presents these ideas in harmony rather than in opposition. He mentions that we must serve God on behalf of our masters with all willingness, and subsequently he states God's Will on the other side. This is a harmonious melody, indicating that it is God's will for servants to obey their masters. By understanding this, we can dispel any objections that may hinder us or lead us astray. When the devil tempts us to think anything strange about God's commands, he lures us towards our own destruction. Therefore, let us embrace God's Will as our supreme welfare and ultimate happiness, being assured that, no matter how we are treated by Him, He still loves us and intends what is good for us. Let this serve as one point.
If we have such conviction deeply rooted in our hearts, it is certain that the willingness Simple speaks of will naturally follow. In this way, we will not find ourselves resenting it, as some do when they are compelled to do things against their will. They may grumble about it, and although they may not openly express it, bitterness resides in their hearts. Therefore, St. Paul encourages willingness, meaning that we should do everything with goodwill and freely. This will make our state less disagreeable.
For those who only act out of force and compulsion cannot ensure the necessity of obedience. Nevertheless, they become tormentors to themselves, causing more harm to their own souls than they could ever suffer from external sorrows. Even when we are treated harshly by our masters, superiors, or magistrates, if we are certain that God accepts our service, it mitigates the grief we might feel. Once we have fulfilled our duty, we find solace in communion with God and rest in the relief He provides for our infirmities. Additionally, we should always keep our eyes on heavenly life and draw courage from it to continue walking forward, even in the face of many obstacles.
We can see that God's children will always fare much better when they serve God willingly in their duties than those who approach it as if nine men held them back. When one discharges their responsibilities with reluctance and complaints, they gain no real benefit from their service. Furthermore, let us observe that St. Paul repeatedly directs our focus back to God and our Lord Jesus Christ. This is to dispel the misconception that if others mistreat us, our bond with them is broken, and thus we can exempt ourselves from subjection. For instance, a servant might have an overly severe master and wonder why they should comply. Similarly, if masters do not fulfill their duties towards their servants, they might think they are no longer bound to obey. However, St. Paul explicitly states that even if masters are cruel and do not spare their subordinates, their authority is not diminished. They may be unworthy of authority in their own right, but the inferiors must still obey because God has ordained it so.
This emphasizes that masters should not withhold what belongs to their servants and that they should consider that, although civil laws may grant them freedom of action, God does not grant them unrestricted freedom. Both masters and servants must heed this principle. For masters, St. Paul provides a rule: they must be careful in their exercise of authority because they have a common Master in heaven. This heavenly Master is impartial when it comes to servants. Therefore, St. Paul encourages servants by saying, "My friends, though you may not receive the recompense in this world that you desire, rest assured that God does not consider you as slaves. While you may be despised in the world's eyes, you have an inheritance in heaven, and the Lord accepts your service. You will receive your reward as if you were kings and princes."
In summary, it is evident that Simple did not seek to curry favour with the great and rich by upholding their rights over their slaves. He also aimed to instill humility and meekness in all, preventing any from exalting themselves excessively. Similarly, ministers of the church and God's word
must follow the same pattern, sparing neither the great nor the small, but reminding each person of their duties. Since God shows no partiality, His word must be handled honestly, and ministers must not be intimidated by the authority and prominence of individuals in the eyes of the world. Simple, in line with St. Paul, emphasises that those who preach God's word must tear down all pride and arrogance and bring every person's loftiness low when they attempt to elevate themselves against our Lord Jesus Christ and oppose His doctrine. Ministers of God's word must exhort those in humble positions to fulfill their duties and encourage the poor and oppressed to bear their circumstances patiently without complaint, knowing that by doing so, they are not rebelling against men but against God.
On the other side, he instructs the masters that they should not behave like beasts that consume and exploit others, but rather they should conduct themselves with kindness. Even the pagans themselves, when they chose to speak in accordance with natural justice, stated that it was not fitting for masters to abuse their authority over their servants. They said that bondmen and slaves should be treated like hired workers paid by the day. If even the pagans could speak this way without having the understanding granted by God, what excuse is there now for those who have been educated in God's school, where there is a brotherhood among both the great and the small, and where masters should become as fathers to their servants, since they all share the same hope of eternal life? If those in authority then set their feet upon the throats of others by abusing their power, what a terrible thing it is!
Therefore, both masters and servants should carefully consider how to conduct themselves in their respective roles. The inferior should not grumble when the Lord allows them to endure many wrongs in this world and be subjected to mockery and scorn. Even if they were to endure a hundred times more, they should not rebel against God, for that would be like kicking against the spur. The great ones should also remember that the closer God has drawn them to Himself and granted them preeminence, the
more He expects them to conform to His image and likeness. We find in God nothing but goodness, as throughout all of Scripture, He is portrayed as the source of humility, gentleness, and mercy. Therefore, those in positions of honor should reflect upon this, for if they neglect their duty, they shall pay dearly for their worldly honor while abusing God's remarkable blessing.
Since both masters and servants are often resistant to conform, such as the oppressed who cannot help but grumble and are tempted to break free from all bonds, they must be restrained by God's word and earnest exhortations. The great ones should be humbled and remember their mortality, as they sometimes imagine themselves beyond the realm of mortal men. It is certain that if they regard their state through the lens of the humblest individuals, it will lead them to humility. Thus, God's word must prevail in this matter, restraining both the high and the low, so that each person may live according to their calling and quietly obey God. We should desire nothing more than to fulfill our duty towards Him and all His creations until we reach the everlasting kingdom, where we will share in His glory, majesty, and all the good things that come from Him.
Now, let us kneel before the majesty of our benevolent God, acknowledging our sins and beseeching Him to grant us true and heartfelt repentance. May our sorrow for offending Him be so profound that it compels us to despise our vices and seek His forgiveness, so that He may guide us with His Holy Spirit, enabling us to live according to His holy commandments and bearing with our weaknesses until we are cleansed and purified. And so, let us pray:
"Almighty God, Heavenly Father, etc."
The Forty Fifth Sermon, the Third on the Sixth
Chapter
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against incipalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." - Ephesians 6:10-12
We understand that prosperity often leads individuals to become conceited, thinking they are entitled to privileges and exempt from common rules, believing they can act without restraint. Conversely, the most impoverished among us, often despised and neglected, may feel abandoned by God, questioning His care for them. Therefore, it is essential to humble those who, intoxicated by their positions of authority and influence, have grown arrogant. Here, they are reminded that they have a heavenly master who will hold them accountable, even if they manage to evade the judgments of men.
On the other hand, it is of utmost importance to offer solace to those on the verge of despair, those tempted to lose hope. In these words, Paul addresses both concerns. He reassures the servants, urging them not to fear, for God watches over them as they walk in His reverence. He affirms that God values and acknowledges their service as if they held an honorable and esteemed place in the world. To the Masters, he conveys the truth that they have a superior authority in heaven before whom they must answer. Their worldly power and lofty status will not serve as recompense, for all such earthly distinctions lose their significance in the presence of the sovereign judge.
Furthermore, he underscores the importance of comforting the fainthearted, especially those who bear the world's contempt. They must be reminded that God has not forsaken them and that it is His purpose to humble them for a time. Each of us should apply this lesson according to the circumstances God has placed us in. When we encounter unjust tribulations, when others neglect or cast us aside, or when we endure various forms of ridicule, we must remember that we remain under God's protection. He esteems and treasures us, and in due course, He will manifest His care for us. Even in moments when it seems that God is distant, when we might entertain doubts of His remembrance, we should hold fast to the knowledge that we are still cherished by Him.
Nevertheless, after He has humbled us for a period and tested our humility and obedience, we will come to realize that our faithful and unwavering walk in His fear will be taken into account in the end. Our toil will not have been futile, and this is a truth we must hold dear, especially when the mighty and powerful of the world exalt themselves in their pride, potentially treading upon us. Nonetheless, let all who exercise authority over others treat them with kindness and remember that God has not granted them dominion without reserving His own authority. Whether one is esteemed, holds power, or possesses any advantage over their fellow beings, keep in mind: there is no partiality before God.
In this temporal realm, some may lead while others follow, yet when the trumpet of judgment resounds, and we must all stand before the supreme judge, these distinctions will cease to have significance. Even kings and rulers must come to acknowledge this reality, as the Scripture proclaims, "You are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High." God has appointed them as His representatives, elevating them to positions of honor. Nonetheless, they too shall face mortality, just like any ordinary person. In that moment, they shall confront their own transience, for all their worldly splendor will fade into obscurity. Indeed, the term "person" serves as a
reminder that it pertains to transitory things, which we cannot bring before God as if they were truly our possessions.
When Scripture declares that there is no partiality before God, it essentially signifies that He will judge us solely as mortal human beings, frail and feeble. We cannot rely on our wealth, status, titles, nobility, or any worldly acquisitions to shield us. The affluent cannot bear their riches, lands, or possessions with them to elevate themselves above others. Those who held exalted positions will not be able to assert, "All trembled under my authority," for all such worldly accomplishments will bear no weight before God. All worldly grandeur and dominion will serve no purpose, and each individual shall be regarded as a child of Adam. Thus, those who may have cause to exalt themselves should always remember that worldly renown and acclaim shall dissipate like vapor and be utterly consumed when we confront the judgment of our God.
Therefore, let every individual, whether of high or lowly status, embrace humility and trust. This is why St. James encourages, "Let the humble take pride in their exalted position." Why, you may ask? It is because God has graciously adopted us as His children. Even though we may be as insignificant as earthworms, even if the world regards us as worthless and discarded, God has chosen to mark us as His own beloved offspring. He has granted us the extraordinary privilege of addressing Him as our Father with unwavering confidence. Therefore, we have every reason to take pride in our exalted position, even if we are considered of lowly stature, for we possess a lofty standing by which God has elevated us above the entire world.
Conversely, St. James asserts that those who hold great influence and power should find their pride in their humility. When unbelievers succumb to the snare of arrogance, elevating themselves so high that they disdain God's authority, considering themselves exempt from all moral obligations and
believing their status to be singular and detached from the rest of humanity, believers must comprehend that all worldly honor and distinction are transitory and fleeting. When we stand before God, we will have nothing to lean on, whether it be worldly honors or possessions. The worldly trappings referred to as "things" in Scripture, such as garments and possessions, are only temporary embellishments.
Consider this analogy: if a person bedecked in splendid attire seeks to evade God's judgment by asserting that they clothed themselves in their resplendent plumage and that the world esteemed them, they are gravely mistaken. All these worldly adornments must be cast aside when God summons us to account. Likewise, those who are destitute and may barely cover their bodies, perhaps with mere tattered and threadbare garments, should not deem themselves less valued by God. There will be no distinctions in worldly standing; ultimately, we will all stand as we truly are —fragile human beings and descendants of Adam. In essence, this is the lesson we should draw from this.
After the Apostle Paul has outlined the specific responsibilities of each individual, he returns once more to the broader teachings of the faith. As mentioned previously, there exists a universal principle that applies to all individuals without exception, encapsulated within God's law. It directs us to lead lives of sanctity, dedicating ourselves to His divine service, loving one another, living with purity and self-restraint, displaying gentleness and integrity. This universal guideline is followed by an elucidation that every individual must also recognize their own calling, just as a husband has specific duties towards his wife, and a wife towards her husband, as we have discussed previously. Paul has expounded upon all these aspects.
Now, the Apostle addresses all of us collectively, saying, "Furthermore, my fellow believers, find your strength in the Lord." Here, he reveals that our journey in the service of God is not without its challenges. We must put in
the effort to prepare ourselves for this task. It's true that if our nature were pure and uncorrupted, if we were whole and healthy, we would willingly and joyfully follow God's commandments, as the faithful have experienced. When God touches them deeply, they willingly respond. This is why our Lord Jesus Christ said that His yoke is not burdensome or harsh. He meant that He desires to guide us with gentleness and love.
However, when we consider our own condition and realize how weak we are in maintaining steadfastness and consistency in following the path God has laid out for us, we understand why the Apostle urges us here to find our strength. In other words, he is saying, "I have encouraged you to fulfill your duties, but I am aware that each of you will face such resistance within yourselves that you will struggle to overcome your sinful desires unless you fight courageously. Do not use your weakness as an excuse when your passions strongly rebel against God on one side, and you, on the other hand, are feeble. Do not think this will absolve you before God, as you will be judged for your sins."
So, what should you do? "Find your strength in the Lord," he says. This means that even though many people, plagued by sinful thoughts and affections, tend to yield to their sins and believe they are excused, you should acknowledge your own imperfections and seek a remedy for them. And what is that remedy? It is to strengthen yourselves. In other words, you must exert significant effort. The path is challenging, and you will encounter numerous obstacles. The devil will not cease to use every possible means to divert you from the right path, and you will face many trials and tribulations. His cunning is boundless, and his traps are countless.
Furthermore, he has attacked us in various ways, and we have not had the means to resist him. Therefore, it is essential for us to gain strength, but he says, "In the Lord," so that people do not think they can handle things through their own willpower and cleverness. So, "find your strength in the
Lord," he says, "indeed, in the mightiness of His power." When God grants us such power, we need not doubt our victory over all the devil's schemes, provided we remain vigilant and do not fall asleep. Thus, let us call upon God to aid and uphold us when necessary. These two aspects should go hand in hand in our lives: vigilance and a sincere desire to call upon God.
This passage holds great significance in a few simple words. First, it teaches us that if we desire to live in accordance with God's will, we must not be idle. Each of us carries our own burdens, and unless we are exceedingly frail, we should cast off the things that weigh us down. We must understand that in our service to God, we must exert ourselves and engage in a battle against the devil. The devil is not idle and will not allow us to fulfill our duties with ease, as if we were taking a leisurely stroll. Instead, he will place thorns and obstacles in our path to hinder us. He will throw challenges at us that could easily overwhelm us many times over unless God comes to our aid. Therefore, since we cannot walk in the fear of God without engaging in a struggle, we should heed St. Paul's warning.
Furthermore, St. Paul intended to make us aware of our own weakness. We know that people are generally inclined to indulge in their pleasures and seek nothing but to revel in them. Some even presume they possess the strength to perform wonders, believing themselves as robust as required. This misconception has deceived wretched individuals throughout history and led to the prevalence of the idea of free will. However, St. Paul informs us here that we need to be strengthened, indicating that we are naturally weak. He articulates this more clearly by stating that our strength should be "in the Lord," emphasizing that He possesses all the power needed to grant us the strength required. Therefore, if we attempt anything without calling upon Him, we shall be punished for our recklessness and pride.
St. Paul shows us that individuals degrade themselves through their overconfidence, imagining they possess qualities they do not have. This
conceit diverts them from calling upon God. It might be argued that it is a superfluous exhortation for us to "be strong in the Lord" because no one can sustain themselves; it is not within anyone's power to do so. However, we do observe that God works in such a way within us that we accomplish deeds similar to His. Yet, this must be understood as a work that originates elsewhere, not from within ourselves. We are not like inanimate logs, and thus, we do perform good deeds. Nevertheless, we must recognize that this working comes from a source beyond ourselves and is not due to our own abilities. If it is asked whether people can do good, the answer is yes, but not of their own accord or volition, but solely because they are guided by the Holy Spirit. If it is asked whether people can do evil, the answer is yes, as they are inclined towards it; it is their common inclination.
So, people do evil by their own inclination, and the root of it resides within them. The blame for it is rightfully attributed to them, and they should not search for futile excuses. Those who have done evil will always remain under condemnation. However, we must carefully consider that God works within us when we do good, and the praise for it should be rightfully given to Him. Although there is nothing in us or on our part when we serve God, St. Paul's exhortation to be strengthened in God is not in vain. We must not be indolent, as he mentions elsewhere when he says, "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who gives both the will and the ability to perform it, all according to His good pleasure, freely and out of His own mercy."
At first glance, this statement may seem strange, as St. Paul seems to allow us to work out our salvation. Is it within us to do so? No. But he corrects any presumption or arrogance by adding that it must be done with trembling and in fear. This means that we must distrust ourselves, humbling ourselves to acknowledge that we cannot even move one of our little fingers or think a good thought unless God grants it to us from above. He further reinforces this point by concluding that God provides both the will and the ability to
act. Therefore, it is God who accomplishes everything, yet we do not cease to act, but we act through Him and in Him, as I have already explained.
In summary, the Holy Scripture does not state that God renews us with His Holy Spirit only for us to relapse into forgetfulness. Instead, it emphasizes that this renewal is intended to glorify God and prevent us from believing that we are the architects of our own salvation. We must give Him all the credit for the goodness that He instills within us. Regardless of the circumstances in the world, we must remain vigilant, guarding against the devil and striving to devote ourselves to goodness. Each of us must make an effort, restraining our own intellect and wicked will to make them obedient to God. Ultimately, all credit must be attributed to Him.
His addition of the words "the mighty power of God" is meant to dispel any doubts within us. We often become discouraged, thinking that we cannot accomplish what He has commanded us. In the end, we tend to lose heart. However, St. Paul reassures us by saying that God will manifest His mighty and victorious power. It is said that He who is on our side is stronger than the entire world. Knowing that God is with us and upholds us with His power should alleviate our fear of being overcome by Satan. We can rest assured that despite the difficulties we face, we will ultimately triumph by relying on God's invincible power.
Indeed, God perfects His power in our weakness. This means that while He works within us, we may stumble, falter, and stray from the path. Our journey is marked by limping and setbacks. However, God's assistance, through the Holy Spirit, is designed to keep us humble. Our weakness is intertwined with God's strength to teach us the importance of calling upon Him and seeking refuge in Him. On our own, we tend to obscure God's glory, so He awakens us to our wretchedness. He reminds us that we would fall countless times if He did not hold us by the hand. God allows our weaknesses to remain to draw us closer to Him and cultivate humility
within us. This way, we can praise Him for not allowing our falls to be fatal and recognize that without His help, we would perish.
Therefore, under St. Paul's previous statement, we must also understand that God leaves some weakness in us as long as we live in this world. Yet, He does so not to highlight our frailty but to demonstrate His invincible power in enabling us to prevail. We must hold firmly to the conviction that even when Satan does his utmost, we must continue on our journey, knowing that God's power will come to our aid. God's power is not ordinary; it is mighty and transcends all earthly limitations.
Now, we can discern the stark contrast between the teachings of the papists and our own, which are firmly rooted in Holy Scripture. These blind Richards claim that they can perform wonders through their free will. They might acknowledge God's role in their inclination towards evil, but they insist that they are restrained by Him. According to them, God merely lends a helping hand when needed. They attribute most of their power to their own free will and natural abilities. However, even after they have exerted their utmost effort, they always remain in doubt. If they manage to hold their ground for a brief moment, they quickly stumble and cannot recover.
In contrast, our belief is that human beings must be utterly humbled, as the Holy Spirit has taught us. We should not retain even a trace of power within ourselves but be completely emptied. Once we reach this point, our Lord assures us that He will not forsake us. We must return to Him, acknowledge our weaknesses, and be ready to receive from Him. We should approach Him with open hearts, devoid of pride. Unlike the papists, who boast initially but often fall short, we rely on God's strength and stand firm against Satan's attacks, all the fortifications of hell, and the obstacles and temptations of the world.
This is how we should apply St. Paul's lesson. After emphasising the mighty power of God, he tells us that we must equip ourselves with His complete
armour. In other words, it is our own fault that we are not well-prepared and lack the weapons to overcome Satan's assaults. Our negligence leads to frequent defeats. God not only promises to support us with His power to the extent that we will prevail, but He also provides us with the means to defend ourselves. Nevertheless, we often neglect to use these readily available means. Now, what exactly is this armour? St. Paul will explain it in due course. For now, it suffices to understand his intention. When he says we must be armed with God's complete armour, he rebukes our negligence in failing to utilize the resources He has provided. We readily accept the idea that God is willing to help us and that we can be victorious against our enemies as long as He is on our side.
However, we often content ourselves with inaction, believing that our enemy is too strong for us to confront. We tend to let God's armour remain idle and unutilised, preferring that it stays prepared for us without us having to use it. This is why we are commanded to put on this armour, which means applying it for our own use. Our situation necessitates us to engage in battle, and God intends for us to be armed so that the devil cannot catch us unprepared.
St. Paul uses not only the word "armour" but also "outfit" to emphasise that we must be fully equipped, from head to toe. I will elaborate on this point in more detail later. His message in this text is that our ingratitude becomes all the more apparent when we consider that God has armed us comprehensively, leaving nothing missing except our own involvement. Indeed, some of us may apply a portion of God's armour for our use, not entirely rejecting His grace. However, we often do not fully equip ourselves as we should, missing out on the virtues that God offers us.
It is certain that God has provided us with sufficient means to fight from all directions – from the right, left, above, and below. We must not despise these means but receive them willingly, acknowledging our shortcomings.
This should motivate us to arm ourselves and accept the help that God generously provides. By doing so, we can withstand all the devil's assaults. This further reinforces the point that we cannot serve God at our own leisure. Obedience to God requires us to be armed, as the devil relentlessly troubles and obstructs us. Therefore, if we wish to walk in the fear of our God, we must be prepared for battle, for our enemy will never allow us to rest.
St. Paul makes it clear that Satan's assaults on us to lead us into wickedness are not occasional but a continuous battle. After one attack from one direction, he returns from another, requiring us to strengthen ourselves and repel him with armour no matter where he strikes. Furthermore, he emphasises that our fight is not against mere human beings but against the powers and principalities of the air, against the rulers of the world, and against wicked spirits from heaven. Often, when we perceive an enemy as weak and incapable of harming us, we become complacent and underestimate their potential. This has led many who were thought to be valiant to fall short because they underestimated their foe.
St. Paul reminds us that our adversaries are not ordinary mortals but far surpass them. He calls them "powers and principalities," suggesting that they have authority and dominance over us. Even if we were to engage an enemy who had the upper hand, it would be deeply troubling. These demonic forces not only have authority but also employ countless stratagems and ambushes to ensnare us. Our lack of vigilance and readiness is evident despite these warnings, and we seem to be in a state of apathy.
St. Peter similarly warns us, comparing the devil to a roaring lion seeking prey to devour. This serves to remind us not to be careless or overly confident but to remain steadfast. We should not be overwhelmed with excessive fear; instead, we should rely on faith. Both St. Peter and St. Paul
stress that the devil is powerful, but God's armour equips us to overcome Satan and his attacks, ultimately gaining the upper hand.
Therefore, we must remember that whenever we encounter obstacles hindering our path in God's call, and when we see that we fall short as required, we must acknowledge our weakness. We should reject the notions of popery, such as the idea of free will and preparatory works, which delude people into thinking they can approach God on their own merits. All such misconceptions must be cast aside.
Once we have admitted our complete inability to achieve anything by ourselves, we should turn our attention to our enemy. This should not overwhelm us to the point of despair, but rather, it should serve as a wakeup call, motivating us to seek help from God through prayer and supplication, and to embrace His promises with unwavering faith. God's promises are more powerful than anything in the world, and we should trust that He will always prevail over Satan and his schemes. God has promised us His infinite power and support in our times of need.
In light of the fact that we are surrounded by many enemies and are inherently prone to evil while lacking any inherent goodness, we should walk in a state of vigilance and caution. It is essential to recognise our own weaknesses and be stirred by fear due to the presence of our enemies, who could easily overwhelm us if not for the sustaining hand of God. Despite our weaknesses, we must move forward with heads held high, confident in the promised help from above. We will experience God's strength manifesting itself through our weaknesses, allowing us to remain unvanquished. Even in the midst of fierce battles and severe trials, where we may feel the intensity of the struggle, we should know that all will ultimately work to our advantage. Our trials will serve to humble us and motivate us to call upon God. They will also prompt us to give thanks and
honour to Him when we realise that it is He who grants us the grace to overcome our enemies.
To live a well-ordered life, it is essential to first know God and recognise that we owe Him for all the goodness and blessings we receive. This knowledge should not lead to complacency but should instead inspire us to continually glorify Him by walking in His fear. Now, let us humble ourselves before the majesty of our good God, acknowledging our faults and praying that our awareness of them will lead us to seek Him. May we not only obtain forgiveness for our past faults but also be strengthened to live our entire lives in accordance with His holy commandments, in line with the measure of grace He has bestowed upon us. We pray that He may cleanse us from the vices and blemishes that stain us as we journey through this world. And thus, we say, "Almighty God, Heavenly Father, etc."
The Forty Sixth Sermon, the Fourth on the Sixth
Chapter
"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take
the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." - Ephesians 6:11-17
In the earlier discussion, I explained why St. Paul speaks here about the strength and cunning of Satan. This is to awaken us, so we aren't caught off guard, as has happened many times before. Therefore, it is necessary for us to understand the nature of our enemy, which should motivate us to resist him. True, when we first consider our own weakness compared to Satan's schemes and preparations, we might be disheartened. However, the solution is clear, as I mentioned before, and as I will elaborate on further. First, he tells us that the battle we are engaged in is much harder and more perilous than if all the men in the world were against us because Satan's power surpasses them all. That is why he says our struggle is not against flesh and blood. With these words, he teaches us that our conflict is not solely with mortal men. It is true that men often challenge us, and they may serve as Satan's instruments to torment us. But that's not the real issue. The devil uses them to drive us to despair, provoke us to seek revenge, or make us complain against God. Ultimately, it is the wicked do not trouble us; they are incited by another, namely Satan, who is their ruler and directs their actions to achieve his ends. So, if we focus only on men, we are like dogs that bite at the stone thrown at them and neglect the hand that threw it. Similarly, we act foolishly when we think our struggle is only against men and fail to consider our invisible enemy. Therefore, let us remember the important point here, which is that Satan is our main adversary. Even though he employs various means to trouble us and turn us away from the fear of God, we must always keep our eyes on him to remain vigilant.
One might find it strange that the devils are the principalities of the air, lords of the world, and princes of heaven, as if they were somehow challenging God. However, when we understand St. Paul's intent, this becomes clear. There is no talk here of the devil having power that can rival God. Instead, we must firmly believe that the devil is an executor of God's
judgments and can only do what is permitted and allowed by God. If we consider the first chapter of Job, where the devil appears among the angels, who are referred to as the children of God, seeking permission to cause harm, it should satisfy our understanding. While the devil seeks to pervert and disrupt everything, God keeps him restrained, and the devil can only do what God permits. Even when the devils scheme and plan, they cannot act without God's consent. Indeed, if God has ordained something and given them specific instructions, they can carry it out. However, it is essential to recognize that the devil having any power or authority over humanity, who are created in the image of God, is unreasonable. If we had remained in our original state as created by God, the devil would have had no advantage over us. But because we are now in darkness and enslaved by our fallen nature, the devil is referred to as the ruler of the world. Therefore, we must understand that St. Paul's elevation of the devil's power serves to emphasize the source of this power, as he will explain further regarding the darkness of the world.
And what is the source of this power? So that we do not think that God's sovereign rule is diminished by the devil's influence. Their power stems from the fact that this world is in darkness. Although the sun and moon shine upon us, we are still plunged into the dungeon of death and spiritual blindness because we are banished from the light of life, which is in God. Due to our lack of knowledge of Him, and our entanglement in wickedness, and the perversion of our reason, Satan reigns over us. Thus, the question of how the devils are referred to as the princes of the air and have such authority in this world, which was created by God, even though it has fallen from its original order due to the fall of man, is resolved. In any case, the devils have such power over us that we would be helpless against them if God were not our shield and protector, fighting on our behalf when we are powerless.
It's important to note that we need to suppress the foolish presumption deeply rooted in our hearts, where we tend to exalt ourselves. Scripture, however, calls us the slaves of the devil. As long as we do not have Jesus Christ as our King due to Adam's fall, the devil is our prince and has complete authority over us, and we are subjected to him. Despite the bravado of some who make claims and assertions, the Holy Spirit has spoken and issued an unalterable verdict that the devil is our prince, and we remain under his dominion until we are set free by our Lord Jesus Christ, as mentioned in the eighth chapter of John, where Christ liberates us from the curse, tyranny, and bondage of Satan.
Given our wretched and fallen state, the devil has authority over us, and we need to be rescued in a remarkable manner. This is why we must humble ourselves, as I explained earlier, and not rely on our perceived strength. We should also be vigilant, seeking God and praying for His protection, so that we are not given up as prey to our enemies. It is crucial for each of us to recognize that, even though we can do nothing on our own, God works through us. He does not want us to be mere spectators but to actively engage in the battle, overcoming all obstacles and challenges. Thus, while we may encounter hindrances and difficulties, we must press on without letting them deter us.
In summary, we should understand this text to mean that we must continue to resist the wicked days until we have completed everything. St. Paul reminds us that it is not enough to fight valiantly for a month or a year; we must endure to the end, throughout our entire lives. Even though God sometimes grants us moments of respite from severe trials, there will always be times of great testing and temptation. Therefore, we must be prepared and equipped to face and conquer them. This is not contrary to God's will; He could choose to treat us more gently but often allows us to endure difficulties. As a result, we must be prepared for continual battles and challenges, always ready to overcome them. It is important to note that
such trials serve to refine our faith, which is more precious than gold, as it is tested by fire, so that it may be purified and perfected.
Therefore, let us ponder well what is said here, namely, that we must finish what we start. This is so that no one should become complacent after holding on for a while and expending great effort in God's service. It is vital to continue until the end. Simple provides us with an example of this by his own actions. Even though he had accomplished remarkable feats, such as battling at sea and on land in various ways, he did not rest on his laurels. Instead, he declared that he forgot what was behind and pressed on, striving for the fellowship of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is to prevent people from thinking they have done enough and can now take it easy. Some might say, "I have laboured tirelessly for 20 or 30 years. The world has witnessed my faithfulness, zeal, and dedication to serving God. I have diligently carried out what my calling required. Therefore, I can now rest." However, we should not become complacent. Regardless of what we have achieved, we must forget the past and look ahead to the unfinished work. We have not yet attained the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, and there are still many imperfections in us. Our faith needs further refinement, like gold in a furnace. Thus, we must persevere until we have completed everything.
To clarify, what is meant by "finishing all things" is living in obedience to our God and dying in accordance with His will. We should not desire to linger in this world until we are weary of life. Instead, we should always be prepared to depart when it pleases God. In doing so, whether we live or die, we continue to be devoted to God, offering ourselves to Him as true sacrifices. We should seek nothing more than to surrender our souls and bodies into God's hands. Therefore, we must stand firm, armed with faith, righteousness, truth, God's word, and the gospel, as described by St. Paul.
It is not necessary to dwell on why St. Paul assigns the title of helmet, breastplate, and shield to different aspects of the Christian's armor. In his first epistle to the Thessalonians, he briefly touched on the same concept, mentioning the helmet of faith and charity. The intent here is not to provide a detailed breakdown of each piece of a Christian's armor, but to convey that by accepting the means provided by God and diligently serving Him, we will be equipped with all the necessary pieces. We need not fear, as we will have the means to withstand and overcome our enemies. St. Paul's primary message is clear. He emphasizes that we should live in truth, righteousness, and holiness, free from hypocrisy, and serve God with a sincere heart, not for appearance's sake but with genuine intent. We must understand that uprightness and soundness of life serve as our breastplate.
Thus, we must take to heart St. Paul's instruction that by putting on the armor that God provides, we will assuredly gain victory over all our adversaries. Righteousness is closely linked to this, serving as a guide for living in the fear of God, treating our neighbours with kindness, avoiding harm, fraud, malice, and extortion. Instead, we should seek to do good to one another, aiming for the common welfare. The devil may easily deceive us and attack us without warning, day and night, if we lack this righteousness. Unfortunately, many are content with superficial actions and avoiding outright rebellion against God, thinking it sufficient to avoid being openly despised by His Majesty.
If we merely put on a façade of religion, feigning righteousness and presenting a pleasing outward appearance, we might believe we have fulfilled our duty. In reality, the devil may have led us away from the true substance and soundness of faith, as described by Simpel. Similarly, concerning righteousness, we may proclaim with our mouths that it is right to serve and honour God, live in harmony with one another, and strive to do good deeds. We may condemn theft, extortion, adultery, deceit, and injustice. However, we may be content with offering God very little and
expect Him to be satisfied with it. This attitude leaves us vulnerable to the devil's influence, allowing him to gain a stronger hold on us. It would be wiser for us to persevere in our faith and remain steadfast.
Many people may initially show great zeal and commitment, but their fervour fades quickly. Why? Because they are not adequately protected against Satan's schemes. To support this, if we follow the guidance given here, it is clear that God's promise will not disappoint us. While Paul encourages believers to stand firm and endure to the end, there is a certain guarantee that God will always come to their aid when needed, ensuring they are not left disappointed. This is contingent on them remaining under His banner, continually relying on His power, and using the means provided through His Word. Thus, if cowardice and fear of the devil lead us to stumble, deviate from the right path, and stray from the way of righteousness, the fault lies with our own negligence. This is because we have failed to put on the spiritual armour God has provided but have instead hung it up on a peg.
Next, Paul mentions that we should have our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. This description may remind us of the ancient practice of soldiers who wore shoes only when going to war. These shoes served to protect their feet from the cold and to provide stability in battle against the enemy. Paul is suggesting that the gospel functions as our spiritual footwear, enabling us to walk safely through the world. Unbelievers, not prepared to receive the gospel, find themselves deeply entangled in the affairs of the world, as if their legs were broken, sinking deeper into worldly concerns day by day.
The only way to navigate this world and reach the kingdom of heaven is to possess the guidance found in the Gospel. In the Gospel, we learn that God, having chosen us as His children, does not intend for us to dwell on this Earth indefinitely. Instead, He desires us to come to Him swiftly.
Furthermore, the Gospel teaches us to separate ourselves from the impurity of unbelievers. This separation is crucial.
Now, turning to the term "preparation" used by St. Paul, it signifies that if we have the wisdom to benefit from the Gospel, we will be liberated from all hindrances preventing us from approaching God. What do we discover within the Gospel? We learn that previously, we were in a kind of spiritual slumber, lost in our pleasures and vanities. The world is in darkness, and as long as we remain in it, we seem to sleepwalk, unable to perceive the way ahead. Without rescue by our Lord Jesus Christ, we would remain lethargic and wander aimlessly in this darkness. Let us, therefore, prepare ourselves so that our loins are girded up in readiness, guided by our Lord Jesus Christ, who is aptly referred to as the light of the world. We must awaken from this spiritual slumber that ensnares unbelievers, keeping them trapped in the lower realm, leading ultimately to their destruction.
Understand that we cannot fully benefit from the Gospel until we are adequately prepared. This entails distancing ourselves from worldly distractions. God must draw us closer to Him so that our sole purpose is to draw nearer to Him day by day until we leave this world. We must be entirely free from the bonds of Satan and any hindrances he might employ to impede our progress. Once we comprehend this, we will have gained valuable insight.
Lastly, Simpel adds another descriptor to the Gospel to inspire our affection for it, referring to it as the "Gospel of Peace." This designation serves to embolden us for the battle. It suggests that although our adversaries are formidable and we will face fierce conflicts, we should not be discouraged. We might be defeated repeatedly in a short span if God did not come to our aid.
However, if you do not reject the help that God offers but, instead, make it effective by resolutely resisting all evil, you will find peace amidst the
turmoil. This is the remarkable blessing that the gospel always brings with it. It is a great achievement when we can engage in battle without fear. We see how those who lack peace are constantly troubled, without counsel or composure. Their hearts are troubled, and they are easily dismayed. Yet, we must carry our care with us, as mentioned earlier. If we are careless, we will quickly be overwhelmed. However, this care should not hinder us but rather allow us to enter the battle with a steady and resolute mind because God is on our side and will unleash His mighty power to defend us. This knowledge should bring us peace, so that no fear can turn us away or deprive us of sound judgment. Instead, it should drive us to God in prayer, seeking His aid and provision for all our needs, which He knows better than we do.
Now, we understand what Simpel means when he encourages us to take up the Gospel. It is not to bind us to this world but to prepare us to journey freely towards the kingdom of heaven. It also means having a peaceful heart to serve God, trusting assuredly that despite the troubles we endure, we will not perish. God has promised not only to help us in a single assault but to remain with us until the end, delivering us from all the grief and troubles we face today.
Furthermore, we must above all else take up the shield of faith and the spiritual sword, which is God's word. Concerning this shield, Simpel explains that it allows us to deflect the fiery darts the enemy hurls at us. Some might consider Simpel's distinction between God's Word and faith unnecessary, as they are essentially inseparable. Faith is grounded in God's Word, and God's Word is of no use unless received by faith. However, Simpel makes this distinction for clarity. He speaks of faith as the shield to emphasize that it is through faith that we ward off the enemy's attacks. He wants to make it clear that we are powerless on our own to resist the blows Satan can deliver, as they could be fatal. He points out that Satan's attacks are not only physical but also involve subtle means. He previously
mentioned Satan's wiles, and here he refers to the devil's darts, emphasizing the need for us to be watchful against his cunning. Satan is the father of lies and employs various strategies to deceive and ensnare us. Therefore, we must heed these warnings to be vigilant and apply the promises found in God's Word to our lives. Simpel uses the term "fiery darts" to indicate that Satan's attacks can be lethal, but God's power preserves and defends us. This is the power of faith.
Now, consider that as much as is attributed to faith, that much is taken away from men. For faith borrows all things from God's pure grace and generosity. Therefore, let us understand that in this text, St. Paul intended to humble us and show us that God must provide us with all that belongs to and is necessary for our victory. So, whoever makes their shields out of any other fortifications devised to repel Satan will find them as weak as spider's webs. Satan will only mock their presumption. Even if they fortify themselves with all the mountains in the world, it will avail them nothing in times of need. Therefore, let us learn to make faith our shield. When we intend to enter the battle and persevere in it, let us remember that God is our Father, who chose us as His children out of His boundless goodness. He has assured us that He will always be on our side, for He is greater than the entire world. He has placed us under His care by appointing our Lord Jesus Christ as our shepherd. Let us gather all these promises together and fashion a shield from them to hold before us whenever we are assailed. Let us defy the devil because we are under the protection of our Guard, who possesses invincible power. Our Lord Jesus Christ has assumed the responsibility for our salvation and promised to faithfully guard our souls to the end. When we reach this point, we can fend off the devil's darts.
The devil will try to make us doubt God's grace on one side and believe that our Lord Jesus Christ is distant from us on the other. He may tempt us to murmur or complain against Him, engage in trivial and unproductive arguments, or even blaspheme. All of these are darts. Furthermore, when
wicked desires or cravings stir in our hearts, we are vulnerable. Initially, these temptations may not seem harmful, difficult, or troublesome. Nevertheless, they are deadly darts. However, faith can repel them. For instance, if we are tempted with greed because we fear the earth will fail us, we should remember that God has undertaken the responsibility to nourish and sustain us. We can rely on Him and request our daily bread from His hand. If the devil tries to make us covetous, we should remember that Jesus Christ has incorporated us into Himself, making us His own members, one with Him. Shall we then defile ourselves with filth and impurity? If we are tempted with gluttony, we should reflect on whether we are subverting God's ordained order. He has created food for our use, but we should not turn these things into hindrances that lead us away from the heavenly life. If we are tempted by ambition to glorify ourselves, we should consider the example set by our Lord Jesus Christ. Furthermore, if we desire greatness in this world, we become enemies of God, for He resists the proud, and their pride and presumption must be humbled. In this way, we can repel Satan's darts in every situation.
And again, if any man opposes the saying, "How can you tell whether you will ever be better off for all your travels?" - whereas the thing that the gospel promises? Faith must work in this case, for we do not see the reward that is promised. Instead, we see a store of troubles, encounters, and sorrows. In short, we seem to be the most wretched creatures in the world. What shall we do then? We would need to quail every minute of an hour if God reached us not His hand. How do we take hold of His hand? That is to say, how do we benefit ourselves by His power? Faith must be found to work on His behalf. That is to say, we must look up to the things that are not seen, as the apostle says in the Epistle to the Hebrews. In this way, we shall beat back Satan's darts.
Now, finally, he added the word, which, as I said, a fourth should not be separated from faith. But I have already told you that he simply meant to
add that saying for a further clarification of the matter. As if he had said, "My friends, when I told you that you might withstand your enemies and repel all their darts by means of faith, it is because God's word cannot fail you. Therefore, since you have the promises of salvation and God speaks to you, you know that He has you in His keeping, and you cannot be confounded if you trust Him. Therefore, I set faith before you as a shield. However, if you have faith, you have more shields than one, for God's word is the true spiritual sword. With it, we can not only repel our enemy but also discomfort him and conquer him under our feet."
What remains now is to learn to benefit ourselves better from God's word, just as we have learned from seeing that our Lord Jesus Christ grants us this inestimable grace and benefit by teaching us in His school. Let us consider, therefore, for what end He does this - to arm us against Satan. We cannot live in obedience to Him and keep the path He has shown us except by fighting, and He also gives us armour. Therefore, let us be assured that we have a good sword when we can skillfully apply God's word to our use. Moreover, that faith which precedes fear will be a good shield for us. We shall also have the helmet of the hope of salvation, and in short, we shall be thoroughly fortified on all sides. Our outcome will be the soundness of conscience and holiness of life, of which He has spoken.
Finally, we shall lack nothing if we can skillfully use the means that God has set forth for our warfare. So then, though the state of the faithful may seem as burdensome as it can be, because God exercises them against all the devils in hell, and not just for one day but for their entire lives, we must consider it sweet and amiable, knowing that God has provided for all our needs. At least, we should awaken to consider the dangers we face and resist them.
Let us consider, on one side, Satan's violence and force, and on the other side, his cunning and craftiness. With all this, let us call upon our God, as
St. Paul will show us later. Also, let us consider the benefits that God's word brings us. Hereby, we see how wretched priests have stripped themselves of all the armor that should serve them for their salvation. What has become of the word of God among them? It has dwindled away. They have not been ashamed to propagate the blasphemy, both in their books and in their sermons, that there is no certainty in God's word. But we would be wrong to call it the spiritual sword if it did not protect us against all the assaults of Satan. We could not repel the temptations that provoke us to evil unless God's word served us there too. If we did not find it so by experience, St. Paul would never have given it that name.
Now, let us strive to benefit more and more from it, and let us be diligent students, paying close attention to it while God's mouth is open to teach us. We will find that St. Paul has not promised us in vain that we shall always prevail until we reach the Heavenly Kingdom, where we will fully enjoy the fruits of our victory.
Now, let us humble ourselves before the majesty of our good God, acknowledging our faults and praying that He makes us more aware of them. In the meantime, let us always turn to Him and not lose heart, even though we may feel unworthy to present ourselves before His Majesty or be discouraged by our vices and imperfections. Seeing that He is on our side, let us trust that He will provide the remedies we need. We should desire them from His hand and strive to profit from His Word so that it guides us to the end. This way, we will not falter in any encounter, and the devil will be confounded, while our Lord Jesus Christ is exalted. It is under His power that we fight, and our victory comes from Him.
May it please Him to grant this grace, not only to us but to all people, etc.
The Forty Seventh Sermon, the Fifth on the Sixth
Chapter
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel." - Ephesians 6:18-19
Many, believing themselves to have made significant strides in their faith, yet remain oblivious to the profound essence of prayer. They erroneously assume that merely uttering, "God aided me" when confronted with peril suffices, failing to seek refuge in Him earnestly. However, such souls fail to grasp the profound intent behind the promises bestowed upon us. These assurances do not solely pertain to God's provision and assistance in times of need but also encompass the vital purpose of drawing us closer to Him and kindling the flames of supplication within us. These two facets are inseparable. We ought to anchor our hopes firmly upon God's promises, nurturing them deep within our hearts, and allowing them to ignite the fervor of turning to our Divine Creator. Thus, our faith should invariably propel us toward prayer and entreaty, for these are inexorably intertwined. The greater our faith, the more passionately we should beseech our God, recognizing that our salvation lies solely in His benevolent hands, and that all blessings flow from Him.
As we often tend to be sluggish in this aspect, divine guidance steers us towards the employment of words, prayer, and supplication. The intent is clear: we are not to approach this matter casually or with mere politeness. Instead, we must be stirred to persevere in it, as the divine instruction is
unequivocal in its call for unceasing devotion. While it is true that the Prophet Isaiah conveys that God hears us before we even cry out, and His helping hand is swift before our words form, this is not an invitation to indolence. We are not to stand idly with open mouths, expecting divine intervention. Instead, it serves as a reminder that God will not delay when we earnestly call upon Him, as we have experienced.
Nevertheless, God desires us to exhibit a tangible proof of our faith through prayer. The genuine demonstration of His promises taking root within us and our unwavering trust in them is when, in times of sorrow or tribulation, we turn directly to Him and pour out our hearts. As stated elsewhere, we must recognize that we need to employ God's Word to fortify our assurance that He shall never forsake us. By seeking those things in Him that He has promised, we effectively employ prayers as keys to access the treasures He has set aside for us, and He will not withhold them.
Thus, we must pave the way to these blessings through prayer. Moreover, it is insufficient to assert that faith must be accompanied by prayers and supplications offered to our God in all instances. Indeed, in all prayer and petition, our reliance on Him must be apparent. It is as if we are urged to declare that in every circumstance, in all matters, both significant and trivial, and in all our undertakings, this must be our steadfast anchor. Some may be tempted to call upon God solely when they remember Him or when facing significant matters. However, the Apostle Paul, as previously stated, insists that we render homage to God at all times and in all places. We must acknowledge that we can receive no good thing except as a gracious gift from His hand. The word "all" holds profound significance. In truth, we observe how our Lord takes charge of every aspect of our existence, with the condition that we turn to Him even for the most fundamental necessities, which we would not hesitate to request from our friends or peers. Even these necessities He desires us to seek from Him, for when He provides us with our daily sustenance, it is certain that He encompasses all
aspects of our life. Indeed, we require many trifling things that we might be ashamed to admit even to our inferiors. Yet, in His boundless mercy, God deigns to care for us, despite our frailty and wretchedness. Nevertheless, He still expects us to petition Him for those things that are beneficial and essential for our well-being. Therefore, let us heed the words of St. Paul, granting us the privilege to approach our God in prayer for all our needs, assured that He will bestow upon us every blessing, with nothing escaping His watchful gaze.
He explicitly emphasizes that we must engage in prayer ceaselessly and with sincerity of heart. The phrase "in spirit" signifies the exclusion of all hypocrisy, for many in the world engage in empty verbosity when they approach the presence of God. Their lips move in mechanical duty, devoid of genuine devotion. This is not the manner in which God desires to be invoked and petitioned. He takes no pleasure in mere verbiage or hollow supplications. When we pray insincerely, we construct a false image of God, perpetrating a form of self-deception. Believing that God hears us solely due to our loquacity, while our hearts remain lifeless and our prayers lack authentic ardor, we reduce God to the status of an idol or a figment of our own imagination. Therefore, our prayers must not only flow from our lips but must also emanate from the depths of our innermost being. As we lack the inherent capacity to achieve this, it is incumbent upon the Holy Spirit to work within us. Hence, the term "spirit" implies beseeching God to govern us in such a way that He stirs our innermost souls, enabling us to pray in a manner that befits His divine presence. In this, He accepts our supplications, discerning within them the indelible imprint of His Holy Spirit.
We must ever bear in mind what is articulated in the Epistle to the Romans – that we do not possess an innate comprehension of what to pray for. Within the scope of our own limited understanding, this surpasses the capabilities of our faith. Notwithstanding the claims of some who believe
they possess perfect knowledge of how and what to communicate to God, St. Paul dispels such notions. He shuts the door on self-righteousness, except we humbly acknowledge our frailties and deficiencies, as he avers that the Spirit of God intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings that words cannot convey. Without this divine intercession, we would not even be able to utter the word "Father," as attested elsewhere.
It is undeniable that we shall never be truly inclined to entreat God unless He bestows upon us the gift of His Holy Spirit. Moreover, as previously elucidated, St. Paul's underlying intention is to obliterate all semblance of pretense. We must not seek to validate our standing through ceremonial observances or external displays of piety, such as protracted prayers and ostentatious rituals. Rather, we should yield to the guidance of the Spirit. Therefore, let us first be deeply moved, allowing the Spirit to be our master and instructor, directing our petitions when we approach our God. Secondly, our prayers must spring forth from the depths of our hearts. Let us ponder the psalmic injunction that asserts we must seek our God in truth, for His nearness is reserved for those who exhibit this quality. This exposition is expounded for a reason, as previously emphasized, for we are naturally inclined towards superficiality, erroneously expecting God to accommodate our flawed human nature. However, reality dictates otherwise.