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Day 5 – Overcoming Discouragement and Anxiety – St. Faustina Novena for the Discerning Heart

From the Diary of St. Faustina, 1488 – Jesus speaks to Faustina:

“The greatest obstacles to holiness are discouragement and an exaggerated anxiety. These will deprive you of the ability to practice virtue. All temptations united together ought not disturb your interior peace, not even momentarily. Sensitiveness and discouragement are the fruits of self-love. Place your trust not in yourself but in God.”

Jesus warns us that discouragement and anxiety are the greatest obstacles to holiness. These feelings often arise from self-reliance or fear of failure, and they prevent us from trusting in God. When we focus on our weaknesses instead of God’s mercy, we lose the interior peace necessary for practicing virtue. Reflect on any areas where discouragement or anxiety may be keeping you from growing in holiness. Remember that God’s grace is sufficient, and He asks only that you trust in His love. Turn to Him with your worries, knowing that He can transform even your greatest weaknesses.

Prayer & Petition:
Lord, You know my heart and how easily I fall into discouragement when faced with challenges. Help me to trust in Your Divine Mercy and to remain at peace, even in the face of trials. May I grow in confidence that You are always at work in my life, even when I cannot see it. St. Faustina, intercede for me so that I may overcome discouragement and anxiety, trusting fully in God’s Divine Mercy. Amen.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, through the intercession of St. Faustina, Apostle of Divine Mercy, I ask for the grace to live more fully in Your mercy. Help me to trust in You completely, to offer mercy to others, and to live in the joy of Your love. May St. Faustina guide me in my journey toward holiness, and may her prayers obtain for me the graces I most need. Amen.

St. Faustina, pray for us.