Perseverance and testing of faith: Reflection by Jane Pimenta of Prayer Aid

 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  James 1:2-4

Life is a continual challenge of fighting off fear and striving to have faith in Jesus.  It is an everyday challenge!  I have experienced fear as a real suffering for many days after my recent accident, it was a constant battle to stay focused on Jesus.   Fear kept me from surrendering completely.  I recalled what I once heard : fear and grace swing like a pendulum.  The more fear we experience, the more grace God gives us.   The greater the fear, the greater the grace…grace is always more than our negative feelings.  I kept that thought in mind and gradually I was able to shake off my fear – only for a while, the fight began again!   Let us keep in mind that negative thoughts are a constant battle raging in us, but God’s grace is greater than our negativity to help us overcome this daily battle.

(Very true, Jane!  No is exempt from fear but if we surrender our fear to the Lord, it will be pacified.  The battle is daily; that’s the reason why we have to ask for the powerful intercession of the saints who has battled and won.  They are so close to the Lord that our prayers are answered swiftly.  We can also go straight to the Lord with great faith!  Note, the Novena to the Holy Infant Jesus is so powerful.  Excellent reflection).  Cynthia Abegail for New World.