From The Editorial Desk 

What Next? 

An Open Letter to Concerned Catholics; Friends and Benefactors of The Vatican in Exile; those who followed Pope Michael I.

 The Holy Father, Michael I, passed into eternity on August 2, 2022, and the Church is now in a period of “sede vacante”. Father Francis Dominic now serves as Camerlengo - he is the chief in conducting the normal business of the Church after the death of the Pope. He conducted the burial of His Holiness, and he is also charged with the preparation of a new papal election. I have witnessed the close relationship between Father Francis and the late Holy Father over a number of years. It was also my privilege to serve at various Masses offered by His Holiness, Michael I. Although His Holiness left no explicit instructions at to what the process of papal selection would be in the future, nor did he leave specific instructions as to who should be the next Pontiff – I can attest that no one knew the mind of Pope Michael in these important matters more than the Camerlengo – Father Francis Dominic. Father Francis has been deluged by numerous well-intended recommendations of how to proceed with a papal conclave – and many of these suggestions have a decided proclivity to conduct the process -whatever it may be- immediately, or sooner than later.

For those who were followers of our late Holy Father I would point out that He held the position that there was a considerable interregnum between the death of Pope Pius XII in 1958 and the election of Himself in 1990 – a period spanning some 32 years! When one scans the historical sede vacante periods before Pius XII it will be noted that there were at least four periods which lasted over two years, and many more lasting months before a Pope was selected. Considering that there was even established election procedures during much of these periods it is astounding to note how long and how many times The Church was without Peter. I note these things only to convince those, who with good intention are anxious to see the Papal Chair filled again, to step back a little and to wait until Our Lord sets the stage and rules for the selection of the next Pope.

It is a matter of Catholic Faith to believe in the necessity of a Pope. Indeed, Our Lord Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church – the Head of the Mystical Body – instructed His Church to have a Vicar. This Vicar would be a man who would be the visible leader of the Church on earth until the time when the invisible head returns.

“And I say to thee: thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (St. Matthew 16:18)

Peter was given this authority because of the expression of his faith- “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 16:17) Faith is the indispensable predicate for a Pope. The Pope must first have the Catholic Faith. Our Lord meant for there to be a vital connection between Authority and The Faith – they would be as One in His Vicar on earth. And so, it was with his Holiness Michael I. If there is any lesson from the election of our Holy Father, Michael, it is that the “process or procedure” of election or selection is not a frozen one meant for all times. Indeed, when one looks at the early Church; From Peter to Linus through to Clement, the early Popes were selected by their predecessors. On through the first millennium of the Church His Vicars were selected by a number of means: appointments by the aristocracy, by Emperors, then by a mixture of clergy and laypeople. It was not until Emperor Henry IV, the Holy Roman Emperor who allowed Pope Nicholas II (1059–61) to promulgate In Nomine Domini in 1059, that ensured that all future elections and, eventually, conclaves, would conform to a basic procedure that has remained largely unchanged for almost a millennium. But these are not dogmatic procedures and might not be suited for a time of great apostacy.

The point to remember is that His Holiness, Michael, believed that the process that existed after the death of Pius XII, was one that could not select a valid Pope – a new process and procedures had to be given in order to select a Vicar who had both The Faith and Authority to be the visible head of Christ’s Church. What that process will be is being discussed among the Clergy and Laypeople affiliated with His Holiness, Michael I. I am sure that Father Francis welcomes all suggestions and comments from those motivated by a love for Christ’s Church. I am also sure that an appreciation of the importance and magnitude of a Papal Conclave will be exhibited by all those who are communicating with Father.

Always remember, Christ is the Head of the Mystical Body although there may be a time when there is no visible head - Vicar. All Catholics should believe in the Papacy, and they should also believe that the Church can exist for a time without a Vicar – this is simply an historical truth as well as a Theological Truth. The Church is indestructible and though it may appear to be in a dark time and there is no leader on the horizon we must have the Faith and believe that Our Lord – in His good time- will reveal to us in whatever way and manner He wills - what is next.

“...they that wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not be weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

In Christ

Brother Stephen, September 30, 2022 

The Battlefield is NOT the Mind

Everywhere you turn, people are talking about the battle over the mind. Truthfully, it isn't the mind where the battle begins for the Christian. That is a semi-Buddhist philosophy, and it is true for someone who is not a Christian. However, for a believer, it is not the mind where the battle takes place. Don't misunderstand me. I believe the mind is critical. However, the mind does not create the most significant problems for God’s people. So if the battle is not in the mind, where is it? The battle for the mind in a child of God is in the body. 

Romans 12 tells us that we are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, Holy and acceptable to God. When our bodies are submitted, our minds are transformed by the Holy Spirit. When a person is a true Christian, they try to change their life by changing their mind. The only change of mind we are to do is repentance, which leads us to three conclusions. 

1. I am not my own.

2. I was bought with a price.

3. I am to glorify God in my body.

Heretofore we live to satisfy our flesh, but when we repent, we change our minds to acknowledge these three principles. That is the only work of the mind over which we have any control. The mind’s control is the work of the Holy Spirit for the believer. Once we have submitted our bodies, The Holy Spirit begins the work of transformation. Our battle is our body or our flesh. Paul spoke of this fact numerous times as he spoke about dying daily, buffeting his body, not living in the flesh, and other examples where he referred to bringing his body under submission, not his mind. Let me give you an example. 

All decisions begin with the flesh. If I decide that I'm going to stop eating junk food, my mind does not automatically quit wanting junk food. If I submit my flesh to refrain from eating that food, my mind will eventually be convinced of the benefits that have taken place. I don't fill my mind with transforming thoughts so that I'll quit eating junk food. I quit eating junk food, and then my mind is transformed. I repented over the fact that junk food is bad for me, but that did not make my mind hate junk food. Mind over matter is psychological, not spiritual. It is possible someone can mentally change, but that is not a transformation from within. Spiritual transformation can only occur through the Holy Spirit's work, not our own mental determination. 

I am not my own. Therefore, I am to glorify God in my body. The body's submission is the beginning of the transformation of the mind. People who cannot win the battle of the mind are fighting the battle themselves. The battle of the mind is one by the Holy Spirit when we have committed our bodies to Christ. The person with an impure mind must submit their bodies to God. In that submission of their body, the spirit of God begins the work of transformation of the mind. Paul spoke of himself as having victory in his mind but a battle with the flesh. Truly our minds often say that we will submit ourselves to God, but our bodies fight us. When we submit the body to the Holy Spirit, the transforming of the mind takes place. 

That is why it's so important that our bodies are under submission. It is not just the words of a song that affect our minds, but the way the song affects our bodies. It is not just a book's message in our minds that is the problem, but the temptation within our bodies. The lust of the flesh is the first that is mentioned, and it is the one that causes us the most problems. Most people sin because their bodies have never truly been sacrificed to God. Paul says I die daily. That is, he's crucifying the flesh with its affections and lusts. The Holy Spirit is within us to control our minds, but we must submit our bodies. 

The Bible says as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. However, the beginning of the pure heart is the presentation of our bodies as a sacrifice to God. We are to deny ourselves so that God can take control of our minds. Jesus said if any man will come after me, let him deny himself. There you find the denial of the flesh. If you read your Bible carefully, you will find that it is the commitment and the surrender of our bodies or the crucifixion of our flesh for the denial of our lusts that proves our commitment to Christ. Once we have done this, the Holy Spirit begins the work of transformation in our minds, which gives us an even greater victory over sin in our lives. Just filling our minds with all good thoughts will not overcome the flesh. Only when we put our flesh on the altar and sacrifice it to our Lord can we truly have victory in our minds. 

The purpose of transformation in the mind is not to give us victory over the flesh, however. Victory in the mind is to give us direction to accomplish the will of God in our lives. You see, it is a step-by-step process that begins with surrendering the body and transforming the mind so that we can know to do the will of God. We think this victory of the mind is to give us a victory over sin, whereas it is stated that it is given to us so that we might know and do the will of God. 

To have a transformed mind to accomplish our physical victory is selfish. However, to have a transformed mind so that we might do God's will and know God's will is unselfish. When we teach our children to have a pure mind, we are not saying something wrong, but we must also teach them how to consecrate their bodies to Christ. Denying ourselves is a pivotal part of doing the will of God because, until we submit ourselves to Him, our minds will not be transformed to do that well.

Notes on One World Religion

The Abrahamic Center is now placed in Abu Dhabi, United Kingdom Emirates. This center now has three edifices : The Temple for Judaism, Islamic mosque, and a Christian Church. I'm not sure if it's just for Catholics or for other non-catholic denominations. But one thing is sure, It is for a One World Religion.

Fraternity is not evil at all, In as much as we are divided Christendom and divided humanity. We are like the Tower of Babel wounded by pride which is a by product of sin. And needs to be healed by unity. Religious leaders should serve as a hinge which will serve as a bridge between people separated by mountains and rivers. Yet, though it seems to be beautiful outside, it is difficult to live. More so because there might be important elements of faith which can't be sacrificed.

In the last World Congress of Religion held in Khazakstan, the Lord Jesus Christ was set aside. Man becomes now a way to all religions. But for us, Jesus Christ is "the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." ( John 14:6 ). For us Outside Jesus Christ there is no Salvation. For us Outside the Church there is no Salvation. Extra Ecclesiiam Nulla Salus. These tenets of our faith should not be set aside in the name of fraternity with other religions.

The Jews are still clinging to the belief that there's one God ( monotheism). Yet Jesus Christ, for them , is not the Messiah. For them, Jesus Christ is not God. But for us, Jesus Christ is God, the second person of the Holy Trinity. Islamic Religion holds that there's one God, Allah, and they do not accept our Trinity. For Islam, Jesus Christ is just a prophet not God. Why is it that these major religions do not put aside their principles? Yet, when it comes to Catholicism as represented by Anti-Pope Francis in that congress there's no mentioning of Jesus Christ?

When the regulations of this One World Religion is in full implementation, time will come when the crucifix will be removed, crosses will be banned, catholic icons shall be destroyed, Holy Mass shall be considered unlawful, all in the name of respect to other religions and all due to fraternity. Fraternity is not evil at all. But removing Jesus Christ as the savior and king of the Universe is evil.

Christus Vincit, Christus Ragnat, Christus Imperat! Let this be our continous song, a song of triumph of our One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. Prepare to be a Martyr. Prepare our young people to be martyrs. Ad maiorem Dei gloriam. 

Spotlight On Our Arch Bishop! 

Most Reverend Rogelio Del Rosario Martinez Jr. was born in Manila Philippines on October 31st 1970. His parents are Rogelio Martinez Sr. and Concepcion Del Rosario. Both are deceased. His siblings are Rosa Maria Martinez Clemente and Ricardo Martinez. Both professionals.

Martinez was baptized Roman Catholic on December 6, 1970. Entered the Seminary after graduation from high school in 1987 at the Immaculate Conception Major Seminary in Guiguinto, Bulacan. From there he finished his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy ( 1992 ) and Theology ( 1997) with Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry. Became a College Instructor after graduation in Theology at Centro Escolar University ( 1997-2016). Teaching Philosophy and Religion.

Married to Ma. Linda Jacinto in 1999 and was blessed with a son, Rogelio III.

Martinez enrolled in the College of Law in 2000 and graduated in 2004 at Harvardian Colleges, San Fernando, Pampanga.

By the grace of God, Martinez was ordained deacon on December 7, 2002 and ordained priest on April 12,2003 by Bishop Joseph V. Galaroza, CSC, D. D., Primate of ICAB. (Brazilian Catholic Church) . It's Apostolic Succession can be traced to Bishop Carlos Duarte Costa.

Martinez became parish priest at Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church at San Jose Del Monte City in 2004. He was ordained bishop by His Excellency Archbishop Joel Clemente and Bishop Heyward Ewart at St. Andrew's Seminary, Quezon City February 6, 2010 . It's Apostolic line was also from Duarte Costa. When Martinez became a bishop, together with his priests, his primary vision was to be reconciled with the Pope in as much as ICAB is in schism. To help him with this intention, he was subcondtionally ordained bishop by Archbishop Neville Anderson and bishop Redpath and Bishop Nield as co-consecrators. But Martinez later on discovered that the Roman Catholic Church in Vatican is not the True Catholic Church today but a Modernist sect. Hence, As a bishop with valid Apostolic Succession from the Roman Catholic Church, Martinez made a decree Motu Propio that his diocese would use the Tridentine Latin Mass to counter the abomination of Novus Ordo Missae and became sedevacantist.

Research at the internet led him to Pope Michael in 2017. After several exchange of communication, In 2020 His Holiness, Pope Michael, accepted Martinez and reconciled him to the Catholic Church. Pope Michael subsequently appointed Martinez as Archbishop of San Jose Del Monte in the Philippines, February 14, 2020. 

A joyful mind maketh age flourishing: a sorrowful spirit drieth up the bones. - Proverbs 17:22

Frequently Asked Questions

Only God can see the heart. Who are we to judge Catholics?

When Jesus talks about judging others, he says, "Judge not, that you may not be judged, For with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged: and with what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why seest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye; and seest not the beam that is in thy own eye?" (Matthew 7:1-3)

Jesus then immediately says, "Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam in thy own eye, and then shalt thou see to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." (Matthew 7:5)

So we see here that Jesus is actually not saying to not judge, but instead he is saying to not be hypocritical. He is criticizing those who point out other people's sins, yet sin themselves.

Jesus then immediately says in the next verse, "Give not that which is holy to dogs; neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest perhaps they trample them under their feet, and turning upon you, they tear you." (Matthew 7:6)

In order to decide who are "dogs" or "pigs" a judgment has to be made. This statement is clearly a metaphor, but nevertheless Jesus is instructing us to make a decision about who is not worthy of what is holy.

Jesus also calls this: "By their fruits you will know them." (Matthew 7:16) He makes this statement is the same chapter, just a few verses later.

Here, in Matthew 7:16, Jesus is talking about false prophets, but again a judgment has to be made. Not only is Jesus NOT saying to not judge, he actually is telling us to judge others based on their actions.

Why? Because our actions reveal the truth about us. Someone can say, "I'm not a killer," but if they kill someone, their actions have proven them wrong. Someone can say, "I'm not a thief," but if they steal, then their actions have proven them wrong. Someone can say, "I have repented," but if they continue in that sin, then they have not repented.

So the idea that we are to "not judge" others is an incorrect teaching.

However, there are two types of judging.

There is objective judgment of "Calling it what it is" and there is subjective judgment of looking down on people and viewing them as less than you because of what they do. Objective judgments are non-sinful, and we see Saint Paul doing it in the Bible as well. However, subjective, arrogant, prideful, belittling judgments are obviously sinful, as the bible repeatedly speaks against arrogance, pride, and belittling others.

Paul on Judging Fellow Believers

Sin is sin. If a believer is committing sin, and they claim to be a Christian, Paul says to not fellowship or socialize with such a person.

^"But now I have written to you, not to keep company, if any man that is named a brother, be a fornicator, or covetous, or a server of idols, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner: with such a one, not so much as to eat." (1 Corinthians 5:11)

Paul even bluntly states that he judges a man who sins, saying, "I indeed, absent in body, but present in spirit, have already judged, as though I were present, him that hath so done, this thing." (1 Corinthians 5:3)

This is appropriate judging. Paul is not being hypocritical by also sinning, and he is objectively calling it what it is: sin.

This kind of judging is exactly what Jesus talks about in Matthew 18, saying, "But if thy brother shall offend against thee, go, and rebuke him between thee and him alone. If he shall hear thee, thou shalt gain thy brother. And if he will not hear thee, take with thee one or two more: that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may stand. And if he will not hear them: tell the church. And if he will not hear the church, let him be to thee as the heathen and publican." (Matthew 18:15-17)

Both Jesus and Paul say to refuse those who claim to be Christian, but are sinners as seen by their actions. Why? Paul explains, "Don't be deceived! 'Evil companionships corrupt good morals.'" (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Paul further says, speaking about believers who sin, "Them that sin reprove before all: that the rest also may have fear." (1 Timothy 5:20)

These are the words of Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul.

For answers to more frequently asked questions, click here: https://www.vaticaninexile.com/frequently_asked_questions.php

CHAPTER VIII
How to Effect This Second Purification

For More Good Traditional Catholic Books:

Crispy Roast Chicken

Ingredients
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 (4 pound) broiler-fryer chicken, cut in half lengthwise

Directions

In a spice grinder or mortar, combine kosher salt, caraway seeds, sage, fennel, coriander, and rosemary. Grind to a coarse powder. Transfer spice mixture to a bowl and stir in paprika, garlic powder, flour, and onion powder; mix in vegetable oil to make a smooth paste.

Pat chicken halves dry with paper towels and tuck wing tips up behind the back. Brush spice paste onto chicken halves, coating both sides, taking care to season under wings and legs. Place chicken halves in baking dish or roasting pan with skin sides up, leaving space around chicken so halves aren't touching.

Roast in preheated oven until a thermometer inserted in a thigh reads 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), about 1 hour. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

  

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Ingredients
1.5 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds
2 teaspoons butter, melted
1 pinch salt

Directions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally. Enjoy!

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Video sermons and instructions: Timeless timely truths for living the Faith

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Christ the King 2010

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19th Sunday after Pentecost 2011
 

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18th Sunday after Pentecost 2013
 

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To God Be The Glory

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Lamp & Light Bible Study - Matthew 12

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Encouragement for Today

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.... I Thessalonians 5:11

We believe that through our assorted podcasts, Vlogs, audio downloads and devotional blogs, you will find an assorted Treasure Chest of...

• Sermons
• Classic Catholic Audio Books.
• Devotionals
• Scripture Studies
• Catechism Lessons
• Old-Time Christian radio programs
• Catholic Videos

...that will be a help in your faithful walk with the Lord.

LEARN MORE AT THE ENCOURAGEMENT FOR TODAY WEBSITE: https://www.encouragementfortoday.com

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Truths From Genesis

Where Does A Week Come From?

In Exodus 20:11 we read, “For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Verse 11 is part of the 3^rd commandment which tells us that because God worked for six days in creating the world and rested for one day, so we should copy this pattern and work for six days and rest for one.

We all use a seven-day week! And the Church set one of these seven days aside as a special rest day to think about God.

The Catechism of the Counsel of Trent says this concerning the Sabbath:

“The Apostles therefore resolved to consecrate the first day of the week to the divine worship, and called it the Lord's day. St. John in the Apocalypse makes mention of the Lord's day; and the Apostle commands collections to be made on the first day of the week, that is, according to the interpretation of St. Chrysostom, on the Lord's day. From all this we learn that even then the Lord's day was kept holy in the Church.” The Catechism continues, “The Church of God has thought it well to transfer the celebration and observance of the Sabbath to Sunday.

For, as on that day light first shone on the world, so by the Resurrection of our Redeemer on the same day, by whom was thrown open to us the gate to eternal life, we were called out of darkness into light; and hence the Apostles would have it called the Lord's day.

We also learn from the Sacred Scriptures that the first day of the week was held sacred because on that day the work of creation commenced, and on that day the Holy Ghost was given to the Apostles.”

We go to Church to and worship our Creator. It is a special day set aside for Him. It's also interestingf to note that the only place the seven-day week comes from is the Bible! It's not based on any astronomical observation, but based on the fact that God created everything in six days and rested for one.

Consider:

Where does our day of approximately 24 hours come from? This is the time it takes the earth to rotate on its axis.

Where does a year com from? This is the time it takes for the earth to go around the sun.

Where does a month come from? This has to do with the relationship between the earth and the moon.

Where does a seven-day week come from? Nowhere-except the Bible! The fact that we use a seven-day week is actually confirming the truth of the Bible.

Now if God made everything in six million years and rested for one million years, we would have a very long week and that wouldn't make sense. It only makes sense if God really did make the universe in six ordinary days and rested for one ordinary day.

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Catechism Catch-Up

Learning How To Walk In The Fear The Lord

The fear of the Lord is an awareness that you are in the presence of a holy, just, and almighty God and that He will hold you accountable for your motives, thoughts, words, and actions. To fear God is to desire to live in harmony with His righteous standards and to honor Him in all that you do.

We do not naturally seek to honor God, because our sinful natures lead us to pursue selfish pleasures instead of delighting in God and discovering the joy of knowing and loving Him. We must choose to walk in the fear of the Lord. The psalmist David prayed, “Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name” (Psalm 86:11).

Throughout the Bible, many promises are given to those who fear the Lord, such as Proverbs 22:4: “The fruit of humility is the fear of the Lord, riches and glory and life.” It is wise to be governed by a healthy fear of God!

The following disciplines will help you comprehend more of His greatness and more of your dependence on Him, thereby learning the fear of the Lord.

Consider God’s Creation

When we look around at God’s creation—the majesty of towering mountains, the expanse of oceans with their high tides and low tides, the intricacy of delicate flowers, the brilliance of the sun, and the glory of our galaxy—we can catch a glimpse of how awesome our God is!

• The psalmist David often expressed his awe of God by meditating on God’s handiwork. He wrote, “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; what is man, that thou art mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:3–4).

• When God gave His Law to the nation of Israel, He first revealed His mighty power through nature so that the people would learn to fear Him. "And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the sound of the trumpet, and the mount smoking: and being terrified and struck with fear, they stood afar off, Saying to Moses: Speak thou to us, and we will hear: let not the Lord speak to us, lest we die. And Moses said to the people: Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that the dread of him might be in you, and you should not sin.” (Exodus 20:18–20).

• The Apostle Paul also recognized that God reveals His power to mankind through His creation. “. . . Because that which is known of God is manifest in them. For God hath manifested it unto them. For the invisible things of him, from the creation of the world, are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made; his eternal power also, and divinity: so that they are inexcusable.” (Romans 1:19–20).

Respect God’s Word

Saint Hilary, from his treatise on the psalms, said this:

"For us the fear of God consists wholly in love, and perfect love of God brings our fear of him to its perfection. Our love for God is entrusted with its own responsibility: to observe his counsels, to obey his laws, to trust his promises. Let us hear what Scripture says: And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you except to fear the Lord your God and walk in his ways and love him and keep his commandments with your whole heart and your whole soul, so that it may be well for you?

The ways of the Lord are many, though he is himself the way. When he speaks of himself he calls himself the way and shows us the reason why he called himself the way: No one can come to the Father except through me.

We must ask for these many ways, we must travel along these many ways, to find the one that is good. That is, we shall find the one way of eternal life through the guidance of many teachers. These ways are found in the law, in the prophets, in the gospels, in the writings of the apostles, in the different good works by which we fulfill the commandments. Blessed are those who walk these ways in the fear of the Lord."

 

Having a high regard for the Bible, the written Word of God, is an essential part of growing in the fear of the Lord. When we take time to read the scriptures, listen to it being proclaimed to us and commit to applying its universal, non-optional truths, we learn more about the nature of God, His ways, and our role as His creatures.

• All the people of Israel were to gather to hear the Word of God so that they would learn to fear Him. “And the people being all assembled together, both men and women, children and strangers, that are within thy gates: that hearing they may learn, and fear the Lord your God, and keep, and fulfill all the words of this law: That their children also, who now are ignorant, may hear, and fear the Lord their God, all the days that they live in the land whither you are going over the Jordan to possess it.” (Deuteronomy 31:12–13). (See also Deuteronomy 4:10, 6:24, and 8:6.)

• The kings of Israel were required to write out a copy of God’s Law and to spend time each day reading it so they would learn to fear God. “Thou shalt set him whom the Lord thy God shall choose out of the number of thy brethren. Thou mayst not make a man of another nation king, that is not thy brother. And when he is made king, he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor lead back the people into Egypt, being lifted up with the number of his horsemen, especially since the Lord hath commanded you to return no more the same way. He shall not have many wives, that may allure his mind, nor immense sums of silver and gold. But after he is raised to the throne of his kingdom, he shall copy out to himself the Deuteronomy of this law in a volume, taking the copy of the priests of the Levitical tribe, And he shall have it with him, and shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, and keep his words and ceremonies, that are commanded in the law;” (Deuteronomy 17:15–19).

• Today, Christians are “kings and priests unto God” (Revelation 1:6). We are to understand the worth of Scripture and to study it and apply it to our lives. “All scripture, inspired of God, is profitable to teach, to reprove, to correct, to instruct in justice, That the man of God may be perfect, furnished to every good work” (II Timothy 3:16–17).

Learn From Scriptural Examples

God’s glory and holiness call for our worship and submission. When the Saints  encountered God, they instinctively demonstrated a deep reverence for Him. We can learn from these examples in our quest to fear God as we should.

The thought of God’s judgments on sin should strike fear into every heart:

• David used strong language to describe God’s judgments. “Thy fierce wrath goeth over me; thy terrors have cut me off” (Psalm 88:16).

• The Apostle Paul spoke of God’s judgment as a motivation to preach the Gospel. “For we must all be manifested before the judgement seat of Christ, that every one may receive the proper things of the body, according as he hath done, whether it be good or evil. Knowing therefore the fear of the Lord, we use persuasion to men. . .” (II Corinthians 5:10–11).

Supernatural demonstrations of God’s power often left people trembling with fear:

• The Babylonian King Belshazzar threw a party and served his guests with the gold and silver vessels from the Temple in Jerusalem, but he soon received a message of warning from God: “In the same hour there appeared fingers, as it were of the hand of a man, writing over against the candlestick upon the surface of the wall of the king's palace: and the king beheld the joints of the hand that wrote. Then was the king's countenance changed, and his thoughts troubled him: and the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees struck one against the other.” (Daniel 5:5–6).

• On the morning of Jesus’ resurrection, an angel appeared and rolled back the stone from the door of the tomb: “And his countenance was as lightning, and his raiment as snow. And for fear of him, the guards were struck with terror, and became as dead men.” (Matthew 28:3–4).

When Godly men of the Old and New Testaments heard God’s voice and saw His glory, they were filled with the fear of the Lord:

• The prophet Isaiah responded with fear when He saw a vision of God in the temple. “And I said: Woe is me, because I have held my peace; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people that hath unclean lips, and I have seen with my eyes the King the Lord of hosts.” (Isaiah 6:5).

• When the prophet Daniel saw a vision, he testified that he had no strength and fell down prostrate: “And I being left alone saw this great vision: and there remained no strength in me, and the appearance of my countenance was changed in me, and I fainted away, and retained no strength. And I heard the voice of his words: and when I heard, I lay in a consternation, upon my face, and my face was close to the ground. And behold a hand touched me, and lifted me up upon my knees, and upon the joints of my hands. And he said to me: Daniel, thou man of desires, understand the words that I speak to thee, and stand upright: for I am sent now to thee. And when he had said this word to me, I stood trembling.” (Daniel 10:8–11).

• At the time of the Apostle Paul’s conversion, he was astonished at Christ’s message to him on the road to Damascus. The revelation of God’s reality and glory overcame all previous misconceptions about Jesus’ identity: “Who said: Who art thou, Lord? And he: I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. It is hard for thee to kick against the goad. And he trembling and astonished, said: Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?. . .” (Acts 9:5–6).

• When the Apostle John received the revelation about the end of the world and saw Jesus on the Isle of Patmos, he was filled with the holy fear of God: “And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. . . . And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not . . .” (Revelation 1:12, 17).

When we encounter a power that is far greater that we are, we often respond with fear. This response was demonstrated by people who witnessed the supernatural power of Jesus Christ:

• The disciples were afraid when Jesus stilled the storm: “And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:41).

• When Jesus cured a man possessed by many demons, the people feared Him: “And all the multitude of the country of the Gerasens besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear. . . .” (Luke 8:37).

• Jesus’ disciples were frightened when He appeared to them after His resurrection: “Now whilst they were speaking these things, Jesus stood in the midst of them, and saith to them: Peace be to you; it is I, fear not. But they being troubled and frightened, supposed that they saw a spirit.” (Luke 24:36–37).

Welcome God’s Chastening

When we rebel against God’s holiness, we will surely face consequences. God’s chastening of sin is painful, yet it is the expression of a loving Father’s care for His children.

• Scripture instructs us to embrace God’s discipline and learn from the reproofs of life: “My son, reject not the correction of the Lord: and do not faint when thou art chastised by him: For whom the Lord loveth, he chastiseth:and as a father in the son he pleaseth himself.” (Proverbs 3:11–12).

• The Body of Christ is challenged to receive God’s chastening and become more holy: “Persevere under discipline. God dealeth with you as with his sons; for what son is there, whom the father doth not correct? . . .Moreover we have had fathers of our flesh, for instructors, and we reverenced them: shall we not much more obey the Father of spirits, and live? And they indeed for a few days, according to their own pleasure, instructed us: but he, for our profit, that we might receive his sanctification. Now all chastisement for the present indeed seemeth not to bring with it joy, but sorrow: but afterwards it will yield, to them that are exercised by it, the most peaceable fruit of justice.” (Hebrews 12:7, 9–11).

• David expressed the pain of past failure in Psalm 51 and humbly sought God’s mercy and cleansing: “Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. . . . Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. . . . Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:4–10).

Recall the Chief Duty of Man

Israel’s King Solomon is renowned as the wisest man who ever lived, yet he made serious mistakes. Solomon forsook the fear God. Even though he received tremendous blessings from God, he disobeyed God’s Law in numerous ways and eventually worshiped false gods. God held Solomon responsible for these sins and brought judgment to the nation of Israel and to Solomon’s family because of them. (See Deuteronomy 17:14–17, I Kings 4:26, and I Kings 11:1–13.)

In the Book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon records his observations about the meaning of life. In the end, he states that the “conclusion of the whole matter” is the fear of the Lord. Let’s heed these words of warning from a man who knew the justice and judgment of God!

“Let us all hear together the conclusion of the discourse. Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is all man: And all things that are done, God will bring into judgment for every error, whether it be good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14).

 

READ MORE FROM THE TRADITIONAL CATECHISM AT THE WEBSITE: https://www.traditionalcatechism.com 

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Living Catholic:

Some Of God’s Purposes For Allowing Adversity In Our Life

 James the Apostle recommended a surprising response to troubles: “My brethren, count it all joy, when you shall fall into divers temptations; Knowing that the trying of your faith worketh patience. And patience hath a perfect work; that you may be perfect and entire, failing in nothing.” (James 1:2–4).

The Apostle Paul expressed a similar perspective on adversity: “And not only so; but we glory also in tribulations, knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience trial; and trial hope; And hope confoundeth not: because the charity of God is poured forth in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost, who is given to us. For why did Christ, when as yet we were weak, according to the time, die for the ungodly?” (Romans 5:3–6).

These Saints understood that in light of what Christ did for us by providing salvation, the difficulties we experience in this life take on new meaning. They are a means through which God works to accomplish His will in our lives: to shape us so that we reflect the character of Christ. (See Romans 8:28–30.) On the basis of this purpose, all adversity “works together” for our good and God’s glory.

Adversity gets our attention.

When adversity comes, we are forced to face problems and pressures that are too big for us to resolve. In this way, God gets our attention. We can’t continue to pursue our goals, tasks, and relationships in the same manner. We have to stop and evaluate our situation, ask God for wisdom, obey His Word, and trust Him to bring the help we need.

Troubles point out our weaknesses and prompt us to rely on God in ways that we wouldn’t unless we had significant needs. Christ’s invitation to those who are weary becomes very attractive in the midst of trials: “Come to me, all you that labour, and are burdened, and I will refresh you. Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart: and you shall find rest to your souls. For my yoke is sweet and my burden light.” (Matthew 11:28–30). Adversity is a classroom in which we can learn more of Christ and become more like Him.

As we come to God with our needs, our inward prayer should echo these words of the Psalmist: “To thee, O Lord, have I lifted up my soul.
O my God, I trust in thee: In thee, O my God, I put my trust; let me not be ashamed. ” (Psalm 25:1–2).

Adversity reminds us of our weaknesses.

The Apostle Paul knew what it meant to live with adversity that would not go away. He learned to see the good that God intended to bring to his life through it and to rejoice in God’s design. He wrote: “And lest the greatness of the revelations should exalt me, there was given me a sting of my flesh, an angel of Satan, to buffet me. For which thing thrice I besought the Lord, that it might depart from me. And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee; for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: For when I am weak, then am I powerful.” (II Corinthians 12:7–10).

As we accept the unchangeable and embrace God’s purposes for our difficulties, we will experience the power of Christ in our lives. We can trust God to care for us and to provide all that we need. “As a father hath compassion on his children, so hath the Lord compassion on them that fear him:. For he knoweth our frame. He remembereth that we are dust ” (Psalm 103:13–14).

Adversity motivates us to cry out to God.

God responds to the cry of His children when they suffer. “The righteous cried, and the Lord heard them: and delivered them out of all their troubles. ” (Psalm 34:17).

• We are to cry out to God with our voice. “I have cried to the Lord with my voice: and he hath heard me from his holy hill ” (Psalm 3:4).

• We can cry out to God for mercy each day. “Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I have cried to thee all the day.” (Psalm 86:3).

• We are to cry out to God in humility. “. . . He forgetteth not the cry of the humble” (Psalm 9:12).

• We are to cry out to God with a pure heart. “If I have looked at iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me." (Psalm 66:18).

Adversity is an assurance of God’s fatherly love and care.

Wise discipline brings a child to maturity. Just as a loving father helps his children learn and grow through the discipline he carries out in their lives, so God uses adversity to help us grow in holiness and become more like Him. When we persevere through hardship, we have proof that we are God’s children.

"For whom the Lord loveth, he chastiseth; and he scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. Persevere under discipline. God dealeth with you as with his sons; for what son is there, whom the father doth not correct? But if you be without chastisement, whereof all are made partakers, then are you bastards, and not sons. Moreover we have had fathers of our flesh, for instructors, and we reverenced them: shall we not much more obey the Father of spirits, and live? And they indeed for a few days, according to their own pleasure, instructed us: but he, for our profit, that we might receive his sanctification. Now all chastisement for the present indeed seemeth not to bring with it joy, but sorrow: but afterwards it will yield, to them that are exercised by it, the most peaceable fruit of justice. Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, And make straight steps with your feet: that no one, halting, may go out of the way; but rather be healed." (Hebrews 12:6–13).

Adversity motivates us to fear the Lord.

Adversity reminds us that God is present and we are accountable to Him for our every thought, word, and action. God’s Word reveals that the fear of the Lord is the key to life, wisdom, and lasting achievement. (See Proverbs 9:10, 14:27, and 22:4.)

If we lose our awareness of God and begin to think and act as if He does not exist, God often allows painful reminders of our need for Him, just as He did with the nation of Israel. “And the wrath of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he said: Behold this nation hath made void my covenant, which I had made with their fathers, and hath despised to hearken to my voice: I also will not destroy the nations which Josue left, when he died: That through them I may try Israel, whether they will keep the way of the Lord, and walk in it, as their fathers kept it, or not.” (Judges 2:20–22).

Adversity strengthens our hatred for sin.

The pain of adversity helps us recognize the deception of sin. Our hatred of evil will increase when we realize how sin keeps us from living in a way that honors God and how it damages the lives of those we love.

God wants us to know that He will not ignore sin. “. . . God is not mocked. For what things a man shall sow, those also shall he reap. For he that soweth in his flesh, of the flesh also shall reap corruption. But he that soweth in the spirit, of the spirit shall reap life everlasting.” (Galatians 6:7–8).

If we could only perceive the final cost of our sin, we would shrink from committing it. Therefore, in His mercy God exposes secret sin, and He allows others to see its devastating consequences. In this way, we are warned not to be fooled by “. . . the pleasures of sin,” which last for a season. (See Hebrews 11:25.)

Adversity is a call for self-examination.

The discipline of the Lord is a part of the life of every Christian, and adversity should motivate us to examine our lives and discern if we are disobeying God’s Word in any area. Jesus warned the complacent church of Laodicea, “Such as I love, I rebuke and chastise. Be zealous therefore, and do penance.” (Revelation 3:19).

God’s Word should be our guide in self-examination. Many cause-and-effect sequences are recorded in Scripture for our instruction and warning. When we experience specific difficulties in our lives, we should discern if they are consequences of sin. The following verses are examples of the connection between our actions and the circumstances in our lives:

• “He that hideth his sins, shall not prosper: but he that shall confess, and forsake them, shall obtain mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13).

• “He that rendereth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.” (Proverbs 17:13).

• “Pride goeth before destruction: and the spirit is lifted up before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18).

• “Honour thy father and thy mother, which is the first commandment with a promise: That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest be long lived upon earth” (Ephesians 6:2–3).

The observance of the Lord’s Supper is a time when God calls us to self-examination. As we regularly remember Jesus’ sacrifice, we are to seriously consider our behavior in light of God’s Word. “But let a man prove himself: and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of the chalice. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment to himself, not discerning the body of the Lord. Therefore are there many infirm and weak among you, and many sleep.” (I Corinthians 11:28–30).

Adversity exposes pride.

The sin of pride is the source of many difficulties, as the following Scriptures point out:

• “Among the proud there are always contentions:. . . .” (Proverbs 13:10).

• “Where pride is, there also shall be reproach: but where humility is, there also is wisdom.” (Proverbs 11:2).

• “Humiliation followeth the proud: and glory shall uphold the humble of spirit.” (Proverbs 29:23).

• “Because every one that exalteth himself, shall be humbled; and he that humbleth himself, shall be exalted. ” (Luke 14:11).

God detests pride, but humility prompts the gift of His grace. “. . . God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Be subject therefore to God, but resist the devil, and he will fly from you.” (James 4:6–7). Hard times expose our pride, because they highlight our need for God and for others. In the midst of adversity, seek to grow in humility, and receive God’s grace with gratitude.

Adversity is evidence of spiritual warfare.

A Christian must be aware of the spiritual battle that rages between God and the enemy, Satan. Learn to recognize that sometimes adversity comes in the form of spiritual warfare through weariness, confusion, division, and spiritual oppression.

In the midst of these trials, do not become overwhelmed or yield to the temptation to give up. The Apostle Paul encourages us to be strong, courageous, and prepared to be good soldiers: “Put you on the armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the deceits of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood; but against principalities and power, against the rulers of the world of this darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in the high places. Therefore take unto you the armour of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and to stand in all things perfect. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of justice, And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace: In all things taking the shield of faith, wherewith you may be able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the most wicked one. And take unto you the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (which is the word of God). By all prayer and supplication praying at all times in the spirit; and in the same watching with all instance and supplication for all the saints:” (Ephesians 6:11–18).

Adversity is God’s method of purifying our faith.

Faith is essential for living the Christian life, because the ways of God are opposite to the natural inclinations of man. Thus, adversity may come at the hand of those who mock God’s principles, or it may come when we violate God’s principles. In either case, adversity is designed to strengthen our faith.

“. . . now you must be for a little time made sorrowful in divers temptations:

That the trial of your faith (much more precious than gold which is tried by the fire) may be found unto praise and glory and honour at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” (I Peter 1:6–7).

The development of patience is another benefit of having our faith purified by the fire of adversity. “. . . The trying of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:3). It is through faith and patience that we inherit the promises of God. Be “. . . followers of them, who through faith and patience shall inherit the promises.” (Hebrews 6:12).

Adversity is a reminder to pray for our authorities.

Those who are in positions of responsibility are supposed to provide protection for those under their care. When there are failures in the life of a leader, his “umbrella of protection” weakens, and those who are under that authority become more vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy. As we experience the pressures of temptation, we should realize that those who are in authority over us are also undergoing temptations and are in need of our intercessory prayer.

The Apostle Paul wrote that we should intercede for those in authority over us so that we can lead a quiet and peaceful life: “I desire therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men: For kings, and for all that are in high station: that we may lead a quiet and a peaceable life in all piety and chastity.” (I Timothy 2:1–2).

Adversity is a signal to reevaluate priorities.

In troubled times, we need to consider our priorities and discern if we are spending enough time preserving the most important aspects of our lives: our relationships with God and others. We should regularly evaluate the health of our relationships and invest the time and effort needed to maintain them honorably.

When we do not spend time with God, memorizing and meditating on His Word, and praying, we miss out on one of the important means God uses to give us wisdom and to change our hearts. We also rob others of the spiritual encouragement, direction, and testimonies we could share if we were faithfully spending time with God.

Adversity that comes because of having wrong priorities may be the consequence of trying to do more than God intended for us to do. “It is vain for you to rise before light, rise ye after you have sitten, you that eat the bread of sorrow. When he shall give sleep to his beloved,” (Psalm 127:2). If we have more projects than we can manage to do in six days, we have undertaken more work than God intended. “Six days shalt thou labour, and shalt do all thy works.” (Exodus 20:9).

Adversity reveals if our work will last.

How we weather the storms of life shows what we have built our lives on. Jesus gave this example: “Every one therefore that heareth these my words, and doth them, shall be likened to a wise man that built his house upon a rock, And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and they beat upon that house, and it fell not, for it was founded on a rock. And every one that heareth these my words, and doth them not, shall be like a foolish man that built his house upon the sand, And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and they beat upon that house, and it fell, and great was the fall thereof.” (Matthew 7:24–27).

Adversity tests our friendships.

The strain of adversity impacts relationships. Hard times reveal if people want to get or to give. Fair-weather friends won’t endure the test of trials and difficulties, but true friends will remain to offer support, comfort, and encouragement in the midst of challenges. Proverbs 17:17 states, “He that is a friend loveth at all times: and a brother is proved in distress.”

True, lasting friendship is described in the Biblical account of David and Jonathan. “The soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.” (I Samuel 18:1). When adversity shook David’s world, Jonathan could have rejected David for many reasons. Instead, he remained a faithful friend to David until the end of his life. Jonathan befriended, encouraged, warned, and protected David, accepting him as the one who would be the king of Israel in his place. When Jonathan died, David was deeply grieved. “I grieve for thee, my brother Jonathan: exceeding beautiful, and amiable to me above the love of women. As the mother loveth her only son, so did I love thee.” (II Samuel 1:26).

Adversity invites us to experience the power of God.

One of the ultimate purposes of adversity is to cause us to desire more of Christ’s power in our lives. Troubles reveal that on our own we can’t live in a way that honors God. We need to rely on God and receive His grace.

Paul willingly suffered the loss of all things so that he might gain more of Christ and experience the power of Christ’s resurrection. He said: “Furthermore I count all things to be but loss for the excellent knowledge of Jesus Christ my Lord; for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but as dung, that I may gain Christ: And may be found in him, not having my justice, which is of the law, but that which is of the faith of Christ Jesus, which is of God, justice in faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable to his death,” (Philippians 3:8–10).

God works within the Christian in a mighty way, making him dead to sin and alive in Christ and enabling him to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit rather than according to fleshly desires. (See Romans 6–8.) For the church of Ephesus, Paul prayed “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and of revelation, in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your heart enlightened, that you may know what the riches is of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power towards us, who believe according to the operation of the might of his power, Which he wrought in Christ, raising him up from the dead, and setting him on his right hand in the heavenly places. Above all principality, and power, and virtue, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. And he hath subjected all things under his feet, and hath made him head over all the church, Which is his body, and the fulness of him who is filled all in all.” (Ephesians 1:17–23).

Adversity prepares us to comfort others.

One of the most valuable results of adversity is that through it we receive God’s comfort, which we are then able to share with others who face similar troubles. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort. Who comforteth us in all our tribulation; that we also may be able to comfort them who are in all distress, by the exhortation wherewith we also are exhorted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us: so also by Christ doth our comfort abound.” (II Corinthians 1:3–5).

Suffering brings pain, but it is not an end in itself. “In all things we suffer tribulation, but are not distressed; we are straitened, but are not destitute; We suffer persecution, but are not forsaken; we are cast down, but we perish not: Always bearing about in our body the mortification of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our bodies.. . . . So then death worketh in us, but life in you. . . . . For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man is corrupted, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. ” (II Corinthians 4:8-10, 12, 16).

To Learn More Principles For Life Go To: Resources: Principles of Life 

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• Please pray for the repose of the soul of the Holy Father, Pope Michael.
• Please pray for the success and growth of the new Chrysostom Bible Institute. Check out the wonderful work it is doing and see how you can get involved!
• Your prayers and support are asked in a special way for the newly established House of Prayer.
• Pray especially that the Holy Ghost inspires and helps us prepare spiritual manuals and days of recollection to make available to all.
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• Also we ask you to keep in prayer our increasing missionary work in the United States and elsewhere.
• Pray for those outside the Church and those who do not know God, that they may see the light of grace and be led safely home to the refuge of the Holy Catholic Church.
• As always, we also ask that you pray for yourself! Never forget your own state of soul. God is calling you to His service in His love. We know that our Lord can count on you to answer.
• We are all praying especially for you, too. May you correspond with every grace of God!
• In what other needs or intentions may we pray for you? Let us know!
• Let us remember that the Church runs on prayer. Without your prayers, God will not work in hearts and souls to bring them to a knowledge of the truth. (I Timothy 2:4)

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