Addressing spiritual consolation – and desolation

By KAITLIN KLEIN

WONDERFUL ADVENTURE

St. Ignatius of Loyola's 11th rule of his 14 rules of discernment is up next in this series; I will focus on only this rule in this column because the final three rules are related to each other, and use a different approach and wording. Father Timothy Gallagher, in “The Discernment of Spirits,” again helps to flesh out Ignatius' original text and helps us understand how to practically use these rules in our lives.

The 11th rule addresses those in both spiritual consolation and desolation: "Let one who is consoled seek to humble himself and lower himself as much as he can, thinking of how little he is capable in the time of desolation without such grace or consolation. On the contrary, let one who is in desolation think that he can do much with God's sufficient grace to resist all his enemies, taking strength in his Creator and Lord."

Father Gallagher points out that, because spiritual consolation and desolation are "contrary to each other," so will be the response to each. In consolation, Father Gallagher helps us to simply understand that, "...the path toward such humility lies in the choice to think in a certain way." The rule spells out exactly how we are to think to work toward a humble heart. We must realize that we are nothing without the Lord, and that times of grace and joy, and all good things, are undeserved gifts from Him who loves us.

In times of spiritual desolation, we must again use the power of reason to "think that (we) can do much with God's sufficient grace...taking strength in [our] Creator and Lord."  Even when we feel we are drowning and cannot feel God's presence, we must stand strong in faith and trust in the unwavering goodness of God.

Father Gallagher uses several examples in his book and points out that, "such thinking will not arise spontaneously."  As we reflect on situations and discern the spirits at work, we can practice using these kinds of thinking in daily living.

When times of extreme consolation and desolation occur, we will be better equipped to follow Ignatius' advice.  This rule in particular focuses on spiritual balance. We will go through ups and downs – consolation and desolation – in our lives; guaranteed. Sometimes, these changes happen quickly; and other times, at a slower pace.

We can take these experiences in stride if we put Ignatius' thoughts into practice – and it does take practice – as we keep the Lord's goodness and mercy at the forefront of our lives no matter what we are going through. We believe that He does all things for our good. Praise God for the comfort that belief brings us, and for His unconditional love.