Episode 2777: Perseverance in Prayer - Morning Prayer

Episode 1700: Sts. Nicasius and Eutropia

Episode 110: St. Venantius

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Theology & Doctrine Filioque "And the Son," a phrase in the Nicene Creed explaining the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son.

Perseverance in Prayer and the Mystery of Suffering
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Welcome to today’s episode. As we navigate the spiritual life, we often encounter moments of dryness, difficulty, and even darkness. These moments can feel disheartening, yet they are opportunities for profound growth. Today, we will reflect on perseverance in prayer and the hidden blessings of suffering, drawing inspiration from St. John of the Cross and the comforting words of Isaiah 46:3-4.
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Segment 1: Dryness in Prayer and Perseverance
St. John of the Cross reminds us:
“Never give up prayer, and should you find dryness and difficulty, persevere in it for this very reason. God often desires to see what love your soul has, and love is not tried by ease and satisfaction.”
Reflection
• Prayer is the lifeblood of the soul, yet it is not always easy. There are seasons when it feels as though God is distant, and our words seem to fall into silence.
• St. John of the Cross assures us that these moments are not abandonment but invitations to deepen our love and trust in God.
• Just as a relationship grows stronger through trials, so too does our union with God. Dryness in prayer is a test of love, and persevering through it refines our souls.
Practical Takeaway
• Commit to prayer, even when it feels difficult. Set a regular time for prayer and trust that God is working in the silence.
• In moments of dryness, offer your struggle to God as an act of love and faith.
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Segment 2: The Hidden Progress in Darkness and Suffering
St. John of the Cross writes:
“The soul makes greater progress in the spiritual life when it least thinks so... The way of suffering is safer, and also more profitable, than that of rejoicing and of action. In suffering, the soul practices and acquires virtue, and becomes pure, wiser, and more cautious.”
Reflection
• Our culture often seeks to avoid suffering at all costs, yet the saints teach us that suffering has profound spiritual value.
• In moments of suffering, God strengthens us and purifies our souls. We become more patient, humble, and dependent on Him.
• The spiritual progress we make in suffering is often hidden from us, which fosters deeper trust in God’s providence.

Practical Takeaway
• Reflect on a past trial or moment of suffering. How did it shape your character or draw you closer to God?
• Offer your current struggles to God, asking for the grace to see them as opportunities for growth and sanctification.
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Segment 3: Trusting in God’s Faithfulness
The words of Isaiah 46:3-4 offer profound reassurance:
“Hearken to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from your birth, carried from the womb; even to your old age I am He, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.”
Reflection
• These words remind us that God’s faithfulness is unwavering. From birth to old age, He carries His people, never abandoning them.
• When we are overwhelmed by dryness or suffering, we can trust that God is holding us, even when we cannot feel His presence.
• God’s promise to carry us is not just for times of joy but especially for moments of struggle.
Practical Takeaway
• Trust in God’s care for you. When you feel burdened, turn to Him with confidence, remembering that He will carry you through every trial.
• Meditate on Isaiah 46:3-4 during times of discouragement, letting His words renew your trust in His providence.
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Conclusion: Embracing the Mystery of Suffering and Prayer
The spiritual life is not always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. Dryness in prayer and the trials of suffering are not signs of failure but invitations to greater intimacy with God. St. John of the Cross teaches us that perseverance in these moments leads to profound spiritual growth. Isaiah assures us that God is always with us, carrying us through every stage of life. Let us trust in His faithfulness and embrace the mystery of suffering as a path to holiness.
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Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ,
In moments of dryness and suffering, remind us of Your unending love and faithfulness. Teach us to persevere in prayer, even when it feels difficult, and to embrace the trials of life as opportunities for growth. Strengthen our trust in You, knowing that You carry us through every storm and lead us to eternal joy.
Through the intercession of St. John of the Cross, may we walk the path of holiness with courage and faith. We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.
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Thank you for joining us for today’s episode. May you find strength in prayer and peace in trusting God’s providence. Until next time, may God bless you abundantly!