“This is why St. Ignatius invites us to both humility and confidence in Rule Eleven, reminding us of God’s merciful grace in consolation and sufficient strength in desolation.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“When we feel strong and consoled in our relationship with the Lord, it is the perfect time to earnestly beg His loving help for times of future weakness, doubt, and desolation.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“This is a humbling realization for those of us often tempted by self-reliance, perfectionism, or productivity: we cannot manufacture consolation any more than we can manufacture authentic connection in any human relationship.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“St. Ignatius entreats us to labor, to be patient, and to remember God’s opposing truth: this desolation is passing in nature.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“Satan suggests that God has abandoned us or does not care enough help us, which seems to confirm our natural feelings of fear, isolation, or confusion.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“A commitment we have previously discerned is our predetermined weapon; it is our confidence in employing it that can make all the difference when the spiritual battle heats up.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“I began to feel unwell; a chronic illness flareup had come out of nowhere. By the next morning, I was doubled over in pain.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“As we persevere against one desolation, it’s not uncommon for Satan to pivot and distract us with another.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“Consolation increases our confidence in God and helps us to rely more on His unfailing strength.” – Megan Hjelmstad
“As we start responding to God’s “pricks” of grace and stop allowing unhealthy pleasures to rule over reason, we begin to overcome sinful enticements. In response, the actions of God and Satan seem to switch.” – Megan Hjelmstad