Self-Conquest - August 19
Self-Conquest
Once a day, at least, recall very earnestly that
I Cor. iii. 15Ꚛ Nineteenth Day of August
In the trials which happen to us we must have recourse to Mary, ask her for an alleviation of these trials, if such alleviation be in the order of Providence; or, if it be not, patience, resignation, perfect conformity to the divine will, and in both the one case and the other the grace to derive from them the greater glory of God and the greater good of our soul.
In the difficulties we may meet with we must beg her to help us to overcome them, to enlighten us respecting what we have to do, and to obtain for us grace to do it well.
Ask yourself: how does this matter affect me personally, what lesson does it convey to me, what suggestion for a better life, how can I improve my conduct; resolve to become a saint at any cost; think upon the eternal years; pray to the Holy Ghost that He may lead you in the way of perfection; finally recite attentively and devotedly the following Act of Consecration to the Holy Spirit:
Oh Holy Spirit, divine Spirit of light and love, I consecrate to Thee my understanding, heart, and will, my whole being for time and for eternity. May my understanding be always submissive to Thy heavenly inspirations, and to the teaching of the Church, of which Thou art the infallible guide; may my heart be ever inflamed with love of God and of my neighbor; may my will be ever conformed to the divine will, and may my whole life be a faithful imitation of the life and virtue of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, to Whom with the Father and Thee be honor and glory forever. Amen.