16. Spiritual Consolations and Desolations

 

Life is full of ups and downs. Just as we experience happiness and sadness in our daily lives, we also encounter spiritual highs and lows known as consolations and desolations. But what are these exactly? Why do they happen, and what do they mean for our spiritual growth?

This article will explore these questions in a way that is easy to understand, even for those who might not be deeply educated in religious terminology. Let’s break it down step by step, discussing what spiritual consolations and desolations are, their sources, and how to navigate through them.

1. What are Consolations and Desolations?

• Consolations are those moments when we feel close to God. Our hearts overflow with joy, love, and peace. We might feel a deep sense of God’s presence, experience happy tears, or feel a strong desire to pray and do good.
• Desolations, on the other hand, are the times when we feel far from God. We may feel dry, empty, or discouraged. Prayer feels like a struggle, and we might feel tempted to give up.

Understanding these experiences is crucial because they are a part of everyone's spiritual journey. They help us grow in faith and trust in God, even when we don’t understand what’s happening.

2. Where Do Consolations and Desolations Come From?

These experiences can come from three main sources: God, the demon, and our own nature.

A. From God

God often starts our spiritual journey with consolations. He gives us these joyful moments to draw us closer to Him, just as a parent feeds a baby with milk. These moments are not a sign of how strong we are but rather of how much we need God’s help and care.

However, as we grow stronger, God may take away these consolations. Why? Because we might start loving the feelings of joy and peace more than we love God Himself. We might become proud, thinking we are holy because of these experiences. When this happens, God withdraws these consolations to help us learn to love Him for who He is, not just for the good feelings He gives us.

God’s purpose is always to bring us closer to Him, to humble us, and to help us grow in true virtue and self-sacrifice. He may allow us to experience dryness or desolation so we can become more detached from worldly things and more dependent on His grace.

B. From the Demon

The demon, who is our spiritual enemy, cannot directly control our thoughts and will. However, he can influence our emotions, imagination, and even our physical senses. He can make us feel spiritual joy and sweetness to deceive us. He might encourage us to take on too many penances or spiritual practices, knowing it will harm us physically and spiritually.

He also tempts us to pride, making us believe we are better than others because of these spiritual experiences. He hides our faults from us, pushing us to seek admiration or supernatural gifts to elevate ourselves, not for God’s glory.

During desolation, the demon tries to separate us from God. He fills our minds with distractions, doubts, and even despair, suggesting that our prayers are worthless or that God has abandoned us. His goal is to make us give up on prayer and spiritual growth.

C. From Our Own Nature

Sometimes, our consolations or desolations are just a result of our natural state. When we are healthy, well-rested, and happy, it is easier to feel close to God in prayer. But when we are tired, sick, or burdened by worries, prayer can feel dry and difficult. This is simply part of being human. Our emotions and physical state can affect our spiritual experiences.

People with sensitive natures may cry easily when thinking about God’s love or the mysteries of faith. Others may struggle to feel anything in prayer, especially when weighed down by life’s difficulties. In these moments, it’s important to remember that God is still with us, even if we don’t feel His presence.

3. How to Discern and Respond to Consolations and Desolations?

St. Francis de Sales, a wise spiritual teacher, gives us practical advice on how to understand our spiritual experiences:

• If our consolations lead us to be more humble, patient, loving, and willing to obey God, then they are from God.
• If they make us proud, impatient, harsh towards others, or unwilling to accept correction, then they may come from our own nature or even the demon.

Similarly, if our desolation leads us to despair, to doubt God’s goodness, or to abandon prayer, it’s likely a temptation. But if it makes us more aware of our need for God and helps us grow in humility, it can be a tool for our spiritual growth.

4. Practical Tips for Navigating Spiritual Highs and Lows

1. Stay Faithful in Prayer: Whether you feel joy or dryness, keep praying. God sees your effort and faithfulness, especially when prayer is hard.
2. Seek Guidance: Talk to a spiritual director or a trusted person about your experiences. They can help you discern what’s happening and offer advice.
3. Focus on God, Not the Feelings: Remember that God is present even when you don’t feel Him. Trust in His love and continue to seek Him.
4. Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others: Each person’s spiritual journey is unique. Don’t be discouraged if others seem to have more joyful experiences. God has a special plan for your growth.

5. Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Consolations and desolations are part of every spiritual journey. They are like the seasons of the soul, each with its purpose. Consolations can uplift us, while desolations can strengthen us. Both are gifts from God, helping us grow closer to Him.

So, if you are experiencing spiritual joy, thank God for His goodness. If you are going through dryness, don’t give up. Trust that God is working in your soul, drawing you closer to Him in ways you might not understand right now. Keep moving forward in faith, knowing that every step, whether joyful or difficult, is bringing you closer to the One who loves you beyond measure.