Episode 2547: Persevering Through Suffering and Seeking Chastity - Morning Episode

Welcome to today’s episode, where we explore the Christian virtues of chastity and perseverance in the face of suffering. These are difficult yet essential aspects of our faith, especially in a world that so often challenges or mocks them. We will draw on the wisdom of St. Arnold Janssen, C.S. Lewis, and the prophet Jeremiah, all of whom provide insights into how we can remain steadfast in our pursuit of holiness, no matter the obstacles or struggles we encounter.
St. Arnold Janssen reminds us of the power of thanksgiving, even when life brings pain or suffering, and C.S. Lewis teaches us about the Christian understanding of chastity, with its challenges and its dependence on God’s grace. Together, we will look at how these virtues strengthen our souls and bring us closer to God, while Jeremiah’s words ground us in the awe of God's infinite wisdom and power.
Let’s begin with a quote from St. Arnold Janssen:
"God loves those who thank Him even in suffering."
This powerful statement draws us into the heart of Christian spirituality. How can we possibly thank God when we are suffering? It seems unnatural counter to our instincts. Yet, this is exactly what the saints call us to do: to see every moment of suffering as an opportunity to draw closer to Christ. The saints understood that suffering is not a punishment, but a means of uniting ourselves with the cross of Jesus. In thanking God during these moments, we express our faith that His plan is perfect, even when it is painful.
By offering our suffering to God, we transform it into a means of grace, not only for ourselves but for others as well. Just as Christ’s suffering on the Cross brought about the redemption of the world, so too does our suffering, when united to His, contribute to the salvation of souls. This is a key teaching of the Church that suffering, borne with faith and offered in union with Christ, has redemptive value. It is in this light that St. Arnold Janssen encourages us to thank God, even in suffering, for the opportunity to share in the mystery of Christ’s Passion.
C.S. Lewis offers us a complementary reflection on the virtue of chastity, a subject that is just as difficult as suffering but just as important in the Christian life. He writes:
"Chastity is the most unpopular of the Christian virtues. There is no getting away from it; the Christian rule is, ‘Either marriage, with complete faithfulness to your partner, or else total abstinence.’"
Lewis points out how countercultural this teaching is. In a society that often exalts personal freedom, especially in matters of sexuality, the Church’s teaching on chastity can seem like an impossible burden. However, Lewis explains that chastity like all virtues cannot be achieved solely by human effort. We need God's grace.
What Lewis highlights is something many of us experience in our daily struggles: the cycle of failure and repentance. Even when we desire to live a chaste life, we will often fall short. But rather than despair, Lewis urges us to keep trying, reminding us that God is patient and forgiving. Each time we fail, we must ask for forgiveness and try again. This continual effort, this "power of always trying again," is where we are formed in humility and dependence on God. Chastity becomes not just a moral achievement but a spiritual exercise that teaches us how to rely on God for everything, including our virtue.
In a traditional Catholic perspective, chastity is not simply a rule to follow but a path to true freedom and self-mastery. The world tells us that freedom means indulging in every desire, but the Church teaches that true freedom comes from self-control and the proper ordering of our desires toward God’s will. Whether within marriage or in single life, the virtue of chastity allows us to love as God intended: with purity, integrity, and self-giving.
Lastly, we turn to the prophet Jeremiah, who reminds us of the majesty and power of God:
"It is he who made the earth by his power, who established the world by his wisdom, and by his understanding stretched out the heavens." (Jeremiah 10:12)
This verse is a powerful reminder that God’s wisdom far exceeds our understanding. He created the world with perfect order and purpose, and He governs our lives with that same wisdom and love. When we face difficulties—whether it’s suffering, temptation, or failure—Jeremiah’s words call us to trust in the One who made the heavens and the earth. If God can order the entire universe, He certainly can order our lives, guiding us toward holiness through the challenges we face. It is this trust in God’s wisdom that allows us to give thanks in suffering and to strive for virtues like chastity, even when the world opposes us.
Practical Application:
Embrace Suffering with Thanksgiving:
Next time you encounter suffering whether physical, emotional, or spiritual try to offer it to God in thanksgiving. It may be hard at first, but simply say, “Lord, I thank You for this trial. Help me to unite it to Your Cross.” Over time, this practice will strengthen your faith and help you grow in holiness.
Seek God’s Grace in Chastity:
If you are struggling with chastity, remember that it is not a battle you are meant to fight alone. Ask for God’s grace, especially through the Sacrament of Confession. Each time you fall, pick yourself up and try again, trusting that God is forming you through the process of perseverance.
Trust in God’s Wisdom:
When life feels overwhelming or confusing, remember the words of Jeremiah. Trust that God’s wisdom and power are greater than any problem you face. Spend time in prayer, asking for the grace to see His hand at work in your life, even in the most difficult moments.
Conclusion:
As we conclude today’s episode, let’s reflect on the beautiful unity of these themes: suffering, chastity, and trust in God. We are reminded that God is always present, always offering us the grace to grow in virtue and to persevere through trials. St. Arnold Janssen encourages us to give thanks in suffering, and C.S. Lewis teaches us that, in the struggle for chastity and other virtues, what matters most is our perseverance and reliance on God’s grace. Jeremiah reminds us that the God who created the universe is the same God who watches over every detail of our lives.
May we trust in His wisdom, rely on His grace, and strive to live in a manner worthy of our Christian calling.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the gift of Your love and for the grace You offer us in every trial. Help us to give thanks even in suffering, knowing that You are with us always. Strengthen us in the virtue of chastity, and teach us to rely on Your grace in all things. We trust in Your infinite wisdom, knowing that You have a plan for each of us that leads to holiness.
Through the intercession of St. Arnold Janssen, St. Teresa of Calcutta, and all the saints, may we persevere in faith, hope, and love.
We ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Thank you for joining us today. Until next time, may God bless you and strengthen you in all your trials. Keep striving, and remember: God is always with you.