Blow the Devil Away

By Nathan Miller 

"One of the greatest dangers of the spiritual life is" ... and then we could write a bunch of stuff.

Of these many dangers St. Ignatius of Loyola pinpointed a few, for example one specific danger that cannot be overcome alone; because the danger is precisely that, going it alone.

When the devil attacks us with temptations, he knows how weak his actions will be if we react wisely, and humbly by seeking help from a spiritual guide, that is, a "Good Confessor" or "Another spiritual person, who knows Satan's deceits and malicious designs." These are the exact words Ignatius uses to describe the individuals who can help us best in such moments of trial.

It's not enough to go to anyone, even to a good friend, if they are not equipped with the spiritual training or insight to understand how the devil works:

Besides battering us with troubling thoughts, the Devil also tempts us NOT to tell anyone. He whispers in our ear: "If they knew your doubts about God's love, they would throw you out of the convent." "If Father knew what kind of lustful temptations you experience, he would never trust you to help in the parish again."

Often the very temptations we experience are blown away by just a word of understanding from a good confessor or experienced soul, for they help us see the Devil for what he really is, the father of lies.

It sure takes spiritual guts to share our inner troubles with others, but the rewards show us how true it is that "He who believes is never alone," and peace and confidence soon return to dwell in our hearts.