MyCatholicSource.com - 'Quick Help' Page: Difficulty In Resolve To Find Time For God

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Please don't feel like a failure – even the saints have dry periods. I believe advice they give during those periods is just to keep going, even if you do not "feel" like it. It can be more meritorious for you to continue even if you do not have a corresponding "good feeling" (or "consolations"). I have read that God sometimes initially gives consolations but that they may be taken away at some point (e.g. as a test). My first thought is to try to continue with your good resolution even if you don't feel like it. You might say a prayer asking God to give you the strength to continue your plan. You can also invoke a saint who had a dry period (e.g. St. Teresa of Avila).

However, if you cannot continue your good plans without external help, you might start with your Catholic family, Catholic friends, Catholic neighbors, or fellow parishioners. If you have a Legion of Mary at your parish, perhaps they can suggest some Catholics who might like to do this with you (e.g. elderly, homebound, lonely, etc.). If not, your parish priest may have some good ideas.

Should you still find it difficult to continue, perhaps you might enhance or vary your plan somewhat? For example, adding holy images, reading saints' sermons on the Scriptures, praying a Scriptural Rosary, playing holy music in the background, meditating on events in Jesus' life, etc. Note that it is always recommended to pray the Rosary daily (try here for some reasons). This short (e.g. 15 minute) devotion might be just what you're looking for. It is easy, rewarding and very powerful.

In any event, the fact that you have met this challenge and didn't give up, but are seeking a way to continue with your resolution, shows your good intent. IMHO, it is also very praiseworthy. During your present dry period, perhaps it would be good to consider St. Francis de Sales' statement that...

"One single act done with aridity of spirit is worth more than many done with feelings of devotion."

You can find more quotes related to holiness here.

Lastly, perhaps focusing on the rewards to be gained (e.g. pleasing God, honoring your Blessed Mother, growing spiritually, eternal rewards, etc.) may be of some assistance in helping you to persevere.

We wish you the best in your good resolutions.

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