The prayer of St Ignatius came to mind this morning as I contemplated the temptations surrounding me.
It would be easy to say, “just this once”… or “it’s only a little lie”…or “everyone does it so how bad can it be”.
But then I recall the compound effect. Giving in to the little temptations over and over compound over time to gradually lure us away from staying faithful and faith filled….. and it becomes easier and easier to give in.
That’s why every day I must make time to renew my mind with the truth, to put on the armor of God, to die to self.
I love these lyrics from Dan Schutte that are based on St Ignatius’ prayer:
These Alone are Enough Lyrics – Dan Schutte
Take my heart, O Lord, take my hopes and dreams.
Take my mind with all its plans and schemes.
Give me nothing more than your love and grace.
These alone, O God, are enough for me.
Take my thoughts, Oh Lord, and my memory.
Take my tears, my joys, my liberty.
Give me nothing more than your love and grace.
These alone, O God, are enough for me.
I surrender, Lord, all I have and Hold.
I return to you your gifts untold.
Give me nothing more than your love and grace.
These alone, O God, are enough for me.
When the darkness falls on my final days,
take the very breath that sang your praise.
Give me nothing more than your love and grace.
These alone, O God, are enough for me.