Struggles in the Spiritual Life 2024 Archives

SISL8 – I’m Troubled and I’m Tempted; I’m Going to Fail – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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I’m Troubled and I’m Tempted; I’m Going to Fail – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss spiritual desolation and temptation, focusing on how these challenges manifest in everyday life. They revisit the character of John, a man experiencing anxiety while awaiting medical results, and struggling to find peace in prayer. Despite his efforts, he faces the pull of temptation and the discouraging thoughts that stem from spiritual desolation. Such temptations are “garden variety” tactics of the enemy, common experiences in the spiritual life, and challenges for us to resist by turning to prayer and trusted support.

We are then introduced to Julie, who, after a spiritually uplifting retreat, finds herself slipping into desolation due to relational difficulties and self-doubt. She begins to question her spiritual growth, underlining how desolation can distort one’s perception of their relationship with God and progress in the faith. It’s important to recognize and reject these lies of the enemy, who uses such tactics to undermine confidence and encourage discouragement.

The Biblical teaching that the enemy is “the father of lies” and an accuser. He encourages listeners to reject feelings of inadequacy and spiritual defeat by holding onto truths of God’s constant presence, support, and love. Through examples and Ignatius’ teachings, Gallagher assures us that desolation is temporary, and spiritual growth often emerges through these struggles.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Awareness of Spiritual Desolation: How can you become more mindful of when spiritual desolation is affecting your thoughts and actions?
Identifying Lies of the Enemy: What are the common lies you recognize in your life that lead to feelings of inadequacy or spiritual defeat?
Resisting Temptation: When you face temptations in moments of vulnerability, what strategies can you use to remain faithful to your spiritual commitments?
Seeking Support in Desolation: Who are the people in your life that you can talk to about spiritual struggles, and how might they help you find clarity?
Remembering God’s Presence: In moments of discouragement, how can you remind yourself of God’s enduring presence and love?
Using Prayer as a Source of Strength: How can you incorporate prayer more intentionally when feeling anxious or troubled by spiritual desolation?
Learning from Spiritual Desolation: Reflect on a time when you grew spiritually after enduring a period of desolation—what did you learn, and how did it strengthen your faith?
Understanding God’s Purpose in Allowing Desolation: How might God be using your current struggles to deepen your spiritual resilience and reliance on Him?

An excerpt from the chapter “I’m Troubled and I’m Tempted”:

“John experiences a form of spiritual desolation that Ignatius describes as “disquiet from various agitations and temptations.” If John can identify his experience as the tactic of the enemy that it is — spiritual desolation — peace will begin to return, and he will be strengthened to resist it. If John is further aware that there is no shame in undergoing such spiritual desolation, that all do from time to time, he will be additionally encouraged in his struggle.

The enemy brings this spiritual desolation into a nonspiritual vulnerability in John: a place of worry — his understandable concern about the growth on his face and his anxiety as he awaits the results of the second biopsy. John deals well with this: he speaks with his wife, and he is faithful to prayer. Texts of the Bible help him. But even as he turns to the Lord, the enemy brings spiritual desolation, “disquiet from various agitations and temptations.” This need not surprise John or us! Ignatius helps us understand this experience and points the way to freedom.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 45). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

An except from the chapter “I’m Going to Fail”:

“Julie’s experience permits an important observation. If the enemy ordinarily brings spiritual desolation into areas of nonspiritual vulnerability (tiredness, discouragement, depression, and the like), then whatever you do to reduce or eliminate that nonspiritual vulnerability will greatly ease your spiritual life. If, for example, Julie and Bob communicate and resolve their tension, Julie will find herself much less susceptible to the “lack of confidence” described here. The same is true for all of us when we experience nonspiritual vulnerabilities. Julie also writes, “I’m up, then so quickly down. You and the others seem so much more stable and so faithful. I must be different.” A further lie of desolation is this: “It’s just you. Other people don’t go through this. You’re up, then down. Other people are steady. It’s only you.” Again, emphatically no!

When Julie knows the others better, and they share on a deeper level, she will find that all undergo these ups (times of spiritual energy, of feeling God’s closeness — that is, of spiritual consolation) and downs (times without spiritual energy, of not feeling God’s closeness — that is, of spiritual desolation). If you experience times of spiritual consolation and times of spiritual desolation, then you share the experience of every man or woman who has ever loved the Lord. What matters is — by now you can tell me! — to be aware, understand, and take action. Take action: that is, to accept God’s gift of spiritual consolation and to reject the enemy’s discouraging lies in spiritual desolation.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (pp. 52-53). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

“Here is a powerful, life-changing book that will help you understand and conquer the struggles you face in your spiritual life. It’s a book for those who love the Lord and desire holiness yet often feel adrift or stagnant in their search for spiritual growth.

All of us encounter valleys on our journey with the Lord — those periods of spiritual desolation that are a painful yet unavoidable feature of our prayer life. Spiritual desolation is as complex as we are, so understanding what is happening and responding to it properly are critical to reaching the heights of holiness.

With warmth and understanding, Fr. Gallagher carefully identifies in this book the various forms of spiritual and nonspiritual desolation and supplies the remedy for each. You’ll learn how to discern whether your struggles derive from medical or psychological conditions or whether those struggles are spiritual and permitted by the Lord for reasons of growth. In each case, you’ll be given the remedy for the struggle. You’ll also learn the forms of spiritual dryness and of the Dark Night — and how to respond to them.

In chapter after chapter, Fr. Gallagher presents a particular struggle as experienced by fictional characters and then provides the advice he gives to those who come to him for spiritual direction about that struggle. You’ll gain confidence as you journey through desolation, and you’ll learn to reject the enemy’s ploys to infect you with a sense of hopelessness.“

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL7 – How Can I Be Drawn to Such Things? – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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How Can I Be Drawn to Such Things? – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss a character named Beth to illustrate the struggles of spiritual desolation and how to respond to them.

Beth, after a long and tiring day, finds herself discouraged and lacking the desire to engage in her usual evening prayers. Faced with the choice between praying the Liturgy of the Hours or calling a colleague, Maureen, for a potentially negative conversation, she opts for the latter. This decision leads her into a downward spiral of unproductive activities, including gossip, watching empty TV shows, and comfort eating. Despite feeling worse afterward, she pushes herself to pray briefly but with little engagement, ending the day feeling ashamed and disheartened.

Experiencing such struggles is common and not something to be ashamed of. He explains that in moments of spiritual desolation, there is often a pull toward “low and earthly things,” as described by St. Ignatius of Loyola. The key is to be aware of this desolation, name it, and then resist it. He highlights the importance of making choices that counteract desolation, like Beth choosing to pray despite her initial reluctance. This resistance can gradually lift the discouragement and lead to spiritual growth.

Fr. Gallagher differentiates between different types of friendships and stresses the importance of having friends who share a love for God and can encourage spiritual growth. He concludes by affirming that God never causes spiritual desolation but allows it for spiritual strengthening, and that the grace to take the first step in resisting it is always available.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Recognizing Spiritual Desolation: Have you experienced moments when you felt discouraged and distant from God, similar to Beth’s situation?
Responding to Desolation: How do you typically respond when you feel the pull toward “low and earthly things” during times of spiritual desolation?
Importance of Spiritual Disciplines: How can maintaining your spiritual practices, like evening prayer, help you overcome discouragement?
Role of Friendships: Do your friendships lead you closer to God, or do they sometimes pull you away from your spiritual goals, as seen in Beth’s conversation with Maureen?
Using Spiritual Tools: Are you aware of and using the spiritual tools, like the Ignatian Rules of Discernment, to recognize and reject spiritual desolation?
Trusting in God’s Grace: In times of trial, do you trust that God is providing you with the grace and strength needed to take the first step towards Him?
Growth Through Trials: How do you view trials and challenges in your spiritual life—as opportunities for growth or as setbacks?

An excerpt from the book:

Into this vulnerable space the enemy brings the further burden of spiritual desolation, and specifically what Ignatius calls a “movement to low and earthly things.” Obviously, telephones, refrigerators, the Internet, and similar things serve in good ways: that is why we have them. But, like Beth, in time of spiritual desolation we may feel drawn to them in “low” and “earthly” ways — that is, in ways harmful to us spiritually.

That Beth — and we — feel this pull in time of spiritual desolation should not surprise us, nor is there any shame in feeling this pull. It is simply a tactic of the enemy, a form of spiritual desolation. Again, such is the spiritual life in a fallen but redeemed and loved world. What does matter and matters greatly, is that we be discerning: that we note this pull to low and earthly things, identify it as the tactic of the enemy that it is, and, with God’s grace and courage, reject it.

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (pp. 40-41). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

“Here is a powerful, life-changing book that will help you understand and conquer the struggles you face in your spiritual life. It’s a book for those who love the Lord and desire holiness yet often feel adrift or stagnant in their search for spiritual growth.

All of us encounter valleys on our journey with the Lord — those periods of spiritual desolation that are a painful yet unavoidable feature of our prayer life. Spiritual desolation is as complex as we are, so understanding what is happening and responding to it properly are critical to reaching the heights of holiness.

With warmth and understanding, Fr. Gallagher carefully identifies in this book the various forms of spiritual and nonspiritual desolation and supplies the remedy for each. You’ll learn how to discern whether your struggles derive from medical or psychological conditions or whether those struggles are spiritual and permitted by the Lord for reasons of growth. In each case, you’ll be given the remedy for the struggle. You’ll also learn the forms of spiritual dryness and of the Dark Night — and how to respond to them.

In chapter after chapter, Fr. Gallagher presents a particular struggle as experienced by fictional characters and then provides the advice he gives to those who come to him for spiritual direction about that struggle. You’ll gain confidence as you journey through desolation, and you’ll learn to reject the enemy’s ploys to infect you with a sense of hopelessness.“

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL6 – I’ve Lost My Peace – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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I’ve Lost My Peace – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor continue their discussion on struggles in the spiritual life by revisiting the story of Paul, a character who experiences both spiritual and non-spiritual desolation. Initially, Paul’s situation improves after he slows down his studies, rediscovers his love for teaching, and begins to engage more in prayer and confession. However, as time passes, he begins to feel unrest, struggles with prayer, and becomes discouraged.

Fr. Gallagher explains that Paul is experiencing spiritual desolation, which is a disturbance of soul brought on by the enemy. The enemy tries to unsettle Paul, not through obvious temptation but by diminishing his peace and creating confusion. This tactic aims to pull Paul away from his spiritual growth. This reminds us of the importance of recognizing spiritual desolation, naming it, and using Ignatian tools to resist it, such as prayer, meditation, and suitable acts of penance.

During desolation, it is crucial not to make significant changes but to remain steadfast in prayer and seek God’s grace. Small acts of resistance, even simple gestures, can help counter spiritual desolation and break its hold. The theme of beginning again after every fall, a concept from Venerable Bruno Lanteri, is a key message of hope in the spiritual life.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Recognizing Spiritual Desolation Have you ever experienced moments of restlessness or discouragement in your spiritual life, and how did you identify them as spiritual desolation?
Responding with Prayer When you feel troubled in your heart, do you turn to God in simple prayer, asking for help and guidance?
Maintaining Faithfulness in Desolation How do you maintain your commitment to prayer and spiritual practices during times of spiritual desolation without making significant changes?
Using Scripture for Strength What scripture passages or spiritual readings bring you comfort and strength during times of spiritual struggle?
Practicing Small Acts of Resistance How can you incorporate small acts of resistance, like engaging in service or community, to counter feelings of isolation and discouragement in your spiritual journey?
Beginning Again with Hope When you fall or struggle, how do you embrace the practice of beginning again without shame, trusting in God’s mercy and grace?

An excerpt from the book:

“When people love the Lord, Ignatius says, and rejoice in the peace this brings, the enemy may attempt to undermine that peace by troubling them. Elsewhere, Ignatius describes this spiritual disturbance as the enemy’s “war against the peace” these people experience. Note that the enemy does not, at this point, tempt Paul to anything sinful. He seeks rather to diminish and even eliminate Paul’s peace, replacing it with trouble of heart. Again, there is no shame in experiencing this or similar tactics of the enemy. It is simply what happens when we live the spiritual life in a fallen but redeemed and loved world. As with Julie, Paul will not be harmed if he is aware of, identifies, and rejects the enemy’s spiritual desolation.

Obviously, if Paul — or any one of us — does not identify and reject this tactic of the enemy, it will cause harm. What, then, of Paul’s questions? Is his disturbance a sign that he is doing something wrong? That he is trying too hard? Trying too little? That he is regressing? The answer to all these questions appears to be no. In Paul’s journal, we see no sign of regression — quite the contrary. Most probably, precisely because Paul is progressing so well, the enemy induces this “disturbance of soul” and “war against peace” in an attempt to hinder his progress. How does Paul and how do we reject such disturbance from the enemy? As already said, the first need is to make no changes, to relinquish nothing of the spiritual program we have in place.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 36). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

“Here is a powerful, life-changing book that will help you understand and conquer the struggles you face in your spiritual life. It’s a book for those who love the Lord and desire holiness yet often feel adrift or stagnant in their search for spiritual growth.

All of us encounter valleys on our journey with the Lord — those periods of spiritual desolation that are a painful yet unavoidable feature of our prayer life. Spiritual desolation is as complex as we are, so understanding what is happening and responding to it properly are critical to reaching the heights of holiness.

With warmth and understanding, Fr. Gallagher carefully identifies in this book the various forms of spiritual and nonspiritual desolation and supplies the remedy for each. You’ll learn how to discern whether your struggles derive from medical or psychological conditions or whether those struggles are spiritual and permitted by the Lord for reasons of growth. In each case, you’ll be given the remedy for the struggle. You’ll also learn the forms of spiritual dryness and of the Dark Night — and how to respond to them.

In chapter after chapter, Fr. Gallagher presents a particular struggle as experienced by fictional characters and then provides the advice he gives to those who come to him for spiritual direction about that struggle. You’ll gain confidence as you journey through desolation, and you’ll learn to reject the enemy’s ploys to infect you with a sense of hopelessness.“

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL5 – I Can’t See – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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I Can’t See – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss the concept of spiritual desolation, as seen through the experiences of a fictional character named Julie.

Julie, like many who start growing spiritually, experiences initial peace, joy, and progress in prayer, only to later feel confusion and darkness, which Fr. Gallagher identifies as a typical instance of spiritual desolation. This state, described in the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, involves discouragement and doubt, leading individuals to question their spiritual progress. Such trials are common and a sign of spiritual growth. He encourages persistence and advises against making any changes to spiritual practices during times of desolation.

Fr. Gallagher explains that the enemy (Satan, the effects of original sin, and worldly distractions) uses desolation to lead souls away from God, while the good spirit (God, angels, grace, and holy influences) aids them in persevering through it. He offers practical advice, drawn from St. Ignatius, such as maintaining spiritual disciplines and seeking guidance from spiritual friends or directors to navigate these dark times. It’s important for us to understand spiritual struggles by naming them, and firmly rejecting any lies that arise in times of desolation.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding Spiritual Desolation: How can recognizing and naming spiritual desolation in our lives help us resist discouragement and stay on the path of spiritual growth?
Discouragement and the Enemy’s Lies: How does the enemy use discouragement during times of spiritual desolation, and what lies are we most vulnerable to during these moments?
Perseverance in Prayer: What spiritual practices have you considered giving up during times of desolation, and how can you apply Ignatius’ Rule 5 to remain steadfast?
Spiritual Friendship and Guidance: How can having a spiritual friend or mentor, like Julie had with Emily, provide support and clarity during difficult spiritual times?
Balancing Expectations in the Spiritual Life: How can we cultivate a sustainable and realistic approach to our spiritual practices to prevent burnout and ensure steady growth?
The Role of Silence and Prayer in a Busy World: In what ways can silence and regular prayer serve as an antidote to the fast-paced culture we live in, both spiritually and humanly?

An excerpt from the book:

“The enemy’s lie says, “Look how badly things are going! You are confused. You can’t see clearly. You are regressing. And things will only get worse.” No! For months, Julie has prayed faithfully and sought to grow. She is simply — again, there is no shame in this — experiencing a tactic of the enemy: a spiritual desolation that the enemy hopes will impede her growth.

By enemy, Ignatius intends Satan and his associated fallen angels, together with the wound of concupiscence — a legacy of original sin — and harmful influences around us in the world. By spiritual desolation, he intends a heaviness of heart (and so, desolation) on the level of our relationship with God (and so, spiritual).

Julie experiences one form of such spiritual desolation, a form that Ignatius calls “darkness of soul.”11 In such spiritual desolation, a burden, a confusion, a heaviness — a darkness — enters our prayer and our efforts to love God. A feeling that this will worsen may accompany this darkness.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 32). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

“Here is a powerful, life-changing book that will help you understand and conquer the struggles you face in your spiritual life. It’s a book for those who love the Lord and desire holiness yet often feel adrift or stagnant in their search for spiritual growth.

All of us encounter valleys on our journey with the Lord — those periods of spiritual desolation that are a painful yet unavoidable feature of our prayer life. Spiritual desolation is as complex as we are, so understanding what is happening and responding to it properly are critical to reaching the heights of holiness.

With warmth and understanding, Fr. Gallagher carefully identifies in this book the various forms of spiritual and nonspiritual desolation and supplies the remedy for each. You’ll learn how to discern whether your struggles derive from medical or psychological conditions or whether those struggles are spiritual and permitted by the Lord for reasons of growth. In each case, you’ll be given the remedy for the struggle. You’ll also learn the forms of spiritual dryness and of the Dark Night — and how to respond to them.

In chapter after chapter, Fr. Gallagher presents a particular struggle as experienced by fictional characters and then provides the advice he gives to those who come to him for spiritual direction about that struggle. You’ll gain confidence as you journey through desolation, and you’ll learn to reject the enemy’s ploys to infect you with a sense of hopelessness.“

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL4 – I Can’t Go On – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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I Can’t Go On – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss the struggles many people face in their spiritual lives, this time by using a case study involving “Paul,” a high school teacher who becomes overextended by balancing his full-time job, pursuing a master’s degree, and taking on additional responsibilities in his parish. As Paul pushes himself, he starts to experience severe burnout, leading to exhaustion, a decline in his spiritual practices, and a growing sense of discouragement.

The importance of recognizing signs of burnout and the need to take practical steps to manage it, Fr. Gallagher suggests that Paul should slow down his studies, openly communicate with his wife, and possibly seek medical advice; as well as the value of journaling as a spiritual practice, helping individuals to understand their experiences more deeply and track their spiritual progress over time.

The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining a balanced spiritual life, such as participating in the Eucharist, setting aside time for meditation, and being aware of God’s presence throughout the day. Fr. Gallagher advises against overcommitting and stresses the need to choose sustainable spiritual practices that can be consistently maintained. He also reflects on the need to make conscious choices about how we use technology to avoid it dominating our lives and contributing to spiritual and emotional exhaustion.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Identifying Spiritual Struggles: What specific struggles are you currently facing in your spiritual life that might be affecting your emotional and physical well-being?
Recognizing Burnout: Have you noticed signs of burnout, such as feeling overwhelmed or burdened by activities that once brought you joy?
Evaluating Life Choices: Are there any major decisions you’ve made recently that, in hindsight, may not have been properly discerned?
Maintaining Balance: How balanced are the key areas of your life, such as work, prayer, rest, and family, and do any of these need adjustment?
The Role of Journaling: Could keeping a spiritual journal help you gain deeper insight into your spiritual journey and monitor your progress?
Incorporating a Rule of Life: Do you have a sustainable spiritual routine or rule of life that supports your faith and well-being?
Avoiding Distractions: Are there distractions, like excessive phone use, that might be disrupting your peace and spiritual focus?

An excerpt from the book:

“In this and the preceding chapters, we have explored spiritual struggles arising from physical and psychological factors. As we have seen, the solution lies in suitable physical and psychological remedies. What, however, of struggles arising from specifically spiritual sources? What might these struggles be, and how can we best respond to them? We will begin now to address these questions.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 28). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description: “Here is a powerful, life-changing book that will help you understand and conquer the struggles you face in your spiritual life. It’s a book for those who love the Lord and desire holiness yet often feel adrift or stagnant in their search for spiritual growth.

All of us encounter valleys on our journey with the Lord — those periods of spiritual desolation that are a painful yet unavoidable feature of our prayer life. Spiritual desolation is as complex as we are, so understanding what is happening and responding to it properly are critical to reaching the heights of holiness.

With warmth and understanding, Fr. Gallagher carefully identifies in this book the various forms of spiritual and nonspiritual desolation and supplies the remedy for each. You’ll learn how to discern whether your struggles derive from medical or psychological conditions or whether those struggles are spiritual and permitted by the Lord for reasons of growth. In each case, you’ll be given the remedy for the struggle. You’ll also learn the forms of spiritual dryness and of the Dark Night — and how to respond to them.

In chapter after chapter, Fr. Gallagher presents a particular struggle as experienced by fictional characters and then provides the advice he gives to those who come to him for spiritual direction about that struggle. You’ll gain confidence as you journey through desolation, and you’ll learn to reject the enemy’s ploys to infect you with a sense of hopelessness.”

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL3 – I Try to Pray, but I’m So Discouraged – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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I Try to Pray, but I’m So Discouraged – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor continue their conversation on struggles in the spiritual life, using the example of a spiritual struggle faced by a woman named Beth. After moving to a new city and starting a new job as a physical therapist, Beth encounters emotional and spiritual challenges, particularly due to a difficult relationship with a coworker named Susan, who is critical and overbearing. This criticism deeply affects Beth, causing her to feel discouraged, isolated, and distant from her prayer life.

Beth’s experience highlights the impact of emotional pain on one’s spiritual life and the importance of not being alone with such struggles; with Fr. Gallagher suggesting that Beth might benefit from counseling, in addition to maintaining healthy habits and seeking support from friends and family. He also reminds us about bringing emotional pain to Jesus, as it is precisely in such vulnerability that one can find deeper connection with God.

The theological principle that “grace presupposes and perfects nature,” means that God’s grace works within our humanity, elevating it. Fr. Gallagher and McGregor explore how both spiritual and human resources, such as counseling and prayer, can help individuals like Beth navigate their struggles. They also touch on how similar issues can affect people in more personal relationships, such as within families, and the importance of seeking both spiritual and practical support.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Recognizing Emotional Wounds: Do I identify any past or present emotional wounds that might affect my ability to receive criticism or engage in relationships?
Understanding Triggers: What specific situations or individuals trigger feelings of defenselessness or discouragement in me?
Approaching Prayer Amid Struggles: How do I approach prayer when I’m feeling emotionally drained or discouraged, and do I bring my pain to Jesus?
Seeking Support: Am I open to seeking help, such as counseling or talking to a trusted friend, when I recognize that my emotional struggles are overwhelming?
Balancing Human and Spiritual Resources: How well do I balance using both human means (like exercise and counseling) and spiritual practices to navigate emotional pain?
Avoiding Isolation: When faced with emotional or spiritual struggles, do I tend to isolate myself, or do I seek community and support?
Embracing Vulnerability: Do I view my weaknesses and struggles as barriers to spiritual growth, or do I see them as opportunities to draw closer to God?

An excerpt from the book:

“Yes, the spiritual life is easier when we take wise care of the body. If you struggle in the spiritual life, ask first: How is my physical energy? Do I get enough sleep? Do I exercise sufficiently? Does my diet sustain my energy? If the answers are positive, you may presume that spiritual struggles, should you experience them, arise from a different cause. But it is wise to ask these questions before you presume this.

Sometimes, life simply makes demands on our energy. If John’s pace at work increases still more, if his wife’s illness grows more serious and long-lasting, if he himself faces physical issues, if the children’s needs increase, and the like, then his energy for prayer will be less. God never asks the impossible! John, or any one of us in similar circumstances, can only do our best to care for our energy. Such expenditures of energy, accepted out of love for our vocation — in this case, marriage and fatherhood — bring us closer to God, though our prayer may be more tired. Even in such situations, however, God asks us to care for the body as best we can. And this will bless our prayer.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 17). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL2 – I Just Can’t Pray – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:09 — 18.1MB) | Embed

I Just Can’t Pray – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor discuss the spiritual struggles many face, particularly when prayer feels burdensome or difficult to maintain. Framed through the story of “John,” a man with a solid prayer life who experiences a period of spiritual dryness, struggling to maintain his usual practices of prayer, daily Mass, and spiritual reading; Fr. Gallagher tells us of the importance of recognizing the role of physical health in spiritual life.

John’s challenges are linked to his fatigue and poor self-care, especially his lack of sleep, which leads to diminished energy and motivation for prayer. Fr. Gallagher highlights that sometimes, what may seem like a spiritual problem is actually rooted in the body’s needs. He advises that taking care of the body—getting enough sleep, eating well, and managing stress—is crucial for maintaining a healthy spiritual life.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Awareness of Spiritual Dryness: Are you currently experiencing a lack of desire to pray or engage in spiritual practices?
Impact of Physical Well-being on Prayer: How are your sleep patterns, diet, and physical energy levels affecting your spiritual life?
Self-Care and Prayer Life: Are you taking proper care of your body as a way to support your relationship with God?
Evaluating Spiritual Routine: Is your current prayer routine realistic and sustainable given the demands of your life?
Seeking Guidance and Support: Do you have a spiritual director or someone you can talk to about your struggles in prayer?
Adaptation to Life’s Circumstances: How does your prayer life adjust to changes in your health, responsibilities, or life circumstances?
Perseverance in Spiritual Practices: Are you willing to begin again and persevere in prayer despite challenges and setbacks?

An excerpt from the book:

“Yes, the spiritual life is easier when we take wise care of the body. If you struggle in the spiritual life, ask first: How is my physical energy? Do I get enough sleep? Do I exercise sufficiently? Does my diet sustain my energy? If the answers are positive, you may presume that spiritual struggles, should you experience them, arise from a different cause. But it is wise to ask these questions before you presume this.

Sometimes, life simply makes demands on our energy. If John’s pace at work increases still more, if his wife’s illness grows more serious and long-lasting, if he himself faces physical issues, if the children’s needs increase, and the like, then his energy for prayer will be less. God never asks the impossible! John, or any one of us in similar circumstances, can only do our best to care for our energy. Such expenditures of energy, accepted out of love for our vocation — in this case, marriage and fatherhood — bring us closer to God, though our prayer may be more tired. Even in such situations, however, God asks us to care for the body as best we can. And this will bless our prayer.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy ; Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 17). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

SISL1 – Introduction – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts

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Introduction – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor begin a 20-part series on the various Struggles in the Spiritual Life. Spiritual struggles are not only common but can be a positive sign of a growing and alive spiritual life. Centering around recognizing and understanding these struggles, as well as the remedies to overcome them, Fr. Gallagher draws heavily on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

Struggles, though challenging, are opportunities for spiritual growth. Fr. Gallagher shares that being aware of these struggles and knowing how to address them can lead to greater freedom and deeper spiritual maturity. The importance of focusing on one’s own spiritual life before effectively helping others and that a strong personal connection with God enables us to share our faith more joyfully and fruitfully.

Throughout the conversation, Fr. Gallagher uses examples from the lives of saints and other spiritual figures to illustrate how struggles can lead to profound spiritual experiences and growth. While struggles are part of the spiritual journey, they are secondary to the central truth of God’s love, which is the foundation of our spiritual life.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

Understanding Spiritual Struggles: What specific spiritual struggles have you encountered recently, and how might they indicate growth in your spiritual life?
Awareness in the Spiritual Life: Are you actively aware of the spiritual movements within your heart, and how does this awareness influence your response to struggles?
Embracing Spiritual Remedies: How have you applied remedies from the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius to overcome struggles, and what impact have they had?
Learning from the Saints: Which saint’s experiences resonate with your own spiritual journey, and how can their example guide you through your struggles?
Fostering Spiritual Growth: In what ways have your struggles led to significant spiritual growth, and how have you seen God’s providence in them?
Prioritizing Personal Spirituality: How are you focusing on deepening your own spiritual life before trying to guide others in their spiritual journeys?
Recognizing God’s Love: How does the knowledge of God’s love as the foundation of your spiritual life shape your perspective on the struggles you face?

An excerpt from the Prologue:

“All who walk the spiritual journey undergo, in their individual ways, such struggles. Our spiritual tradition knows these struggles, explains their causes, and supplies their remedies. Such struggles lie within God’s loving providence. Understood and faced well, they will not harm us. They will, on the contrary, lead to growth — the reason for which God permits them.

Struggles are not the heart of the spiritual life. God’s love is — His deep, warm, faithful, and personal love for you. That is the center. That is the source of your joy. Because you know this, you love the spiritual life. And because you love it, you have begun to read this book.

We turn now to a wisdom that will protect this center and guide us into its richness.”

Gallagher O.M.V, Fr. Timothy. Struggles in the Spiritual Life: Their Nature and Their Remedies (p. 11). Sophia Institute Press. Kindle Edition.

I’m Troubled and I’m Tempted; I’m Going to Fail – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the chapter “I’m Troubled and I’m Tempted”:

An except from the chapter “I’m Going to Fail”:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

How Can I Be Drawn to Such Things? – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the book:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

I’ve Lost My Peace – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the book:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

I Can’t See – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the book:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

From the book’s description:

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

I Can’t Go On – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the book:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

I Try to Pray, but I’m So Discouraged – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the book:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

I Just Can’t Pray – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the book:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

Introduction – Struggles in the Spiritual Life with Fr. Timothy Gallagher O.M.V.

You can pick up a copy of the book here.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

An excerpt from the Prologue:

To find more episodes from this series, visit the Struggles in the Spiritual Life Podcast

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts? Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!

Did you know that Fr. Timothy Gallagher has 14 different podcast series on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts?
Visit here to discover more!