In those moments, the enemy whispers to us that there’s no way out. He tempts us with distractions—things that might numb the pain for a little while. Maybe it’s another drink. Maybe it’s reckless behavior or choices we’d never normally make. Or maybe it’s the more socially acceptable kinds of escape: endless scrolling, isolating ourselves, or pushing God to the side because, let’s be honest, it hurts too much to pray right now...

It is your constant patience in faith which will decide the struggle against sin, not occasional victories or defeats.

Oh, the blessed shadow of Christ’s cross! All the flocks of the Lord lie down under it, and rest in peace; millions of souls are delivered by it from the heat of vengeance, and myriads more shall find a covert within it from the wrath to come.