Determination and Willpower
The talk addresses the problem of loving good while being weak in practice, citing Paul’s epistle to the Romans which describes having the will to do what is good but lacking the execution because of sin. It emphasizes that theoretical love is not enough and requires a strong will that implements deeds.
Key points
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A weak will makes a person unable to resist sin despite loving God in theory.
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Passions and the presence of the material of sin or its field before the person rapidly weaken the will.
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Prolonged exposure to the causes of sin leads to a gradual descent and the establishment of sin in the heart.
How to strengthen the will
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Heartfelt and intellectual conviction of God’s goodness and loving God with all the heart.
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Practical distancing from the causes of passion and spheres of sins (avoiding sources and stimulants).
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Vigilance and an active conscience: work to keep the conscience alive and not let the self pass things by.
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Speed in resistance: confront the thought or passion immediately before it becomes stronger.
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Self-compulsion and personal effort: force yourself to do good and continuous spiritual training (fasting, prayer, repentance…).
Spiritual means and strengthening
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Strengthen continuous “means of grace”: reading the Bible, prayer, sacraments, spiritual meetings, psalmody and meditation.
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Beware of negligence and laziness which gradually weaken the will.
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Maintain a good spiritual environment which increases inclination to good and weakens inclination to sin.
Practical guidance and conclusion
The talk stresses seriousness and commitment: that the will be in agreement with God without bargains or excuses. The beginner starts by avoiding the material of sin until his spirit is joined to the body so it becomes easier for him to walk the path of love. The Lord provides grace alongside the serious effort of man, so initiative must not stop but be strengthened by conscious and continuous practice.
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