On this sixth day of the Novena, we petition the Lord for protection against evil and temptation.
Evil exists. Just read the news. Evil is the absence of good and the pursuit of power, control and influence for selfish gain. It is the pursuit of our will in opposition to God’s. God is not responsible for the evil in the world, humans are. The greater the human pursuit of self-interest, the greater the evil. That may not be fully descriptive or an all-encompassing explanation, but it will do.
Evil is seductive and can convince us of the greatness of our own power and invincibility. How often when you drank you believed anything was possible? How often did you drink to fortify yourself against the day?
Succumbing to temptation is like a release against the tension and struggle of self-control. It can seem liberating and easier to do. “Why fight it?”
It is surrendering to the convenience and false happiness of the short-term gain as opposed to the lasting and satisfying long-term benefits of sobriety, chastity and self-control. Animals succumb to their passions, humans can control them, with the help of God’s grace.
Now, to the Novena:
Begin the prayer with: O God, come to my assistance. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father…, etc.
By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Virtues may the Lord preserve us from evil and falling into temptation. Amen.
[Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys after your intentions for the protection against evil and temptation.]
To say the entire Chaplet, click here:
Chaplet of St. Michael
My two other books are still available! "The Stations of the Cross for Alcoholics" and "The Recovery Rosary: Reflections for Alcoholics and Addicts" (Thank you!!)