Examination of Conscience

THE DESIRES OF THE HEART - Fr Mathew Naikomparambil VC 

God's devotee prays :
 
"O Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy hill?" (Psalms 15:1)
 
Reply :

"Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right, and speak the truth from their heart"(Ps 15:2).



The desires of the heart
Examine the impulses and movements of the heart. Foster the good and just desires. Reject all others. Give up everything that is not according to the word and example of Jesus Christ.

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1. Think only what is good.   2. Speak only the truth. 3. Love everyone.   4 Hate no one. 5. Praise God in every crisis; trust in him. 6. Thank God for everything. 7. Pray with thirst that the love of God and love of neighbour may fill us. 8. Pray every day to receive an infilling of the Holy Spirit. 9. Pray for all people all over the world. 10. Live, act and pray for these intentions: the glory of God, world evangelisation, the conversion of sinners. _________________________________________



All the above - mentioned suggestions are the teachings of the Bible. God will give us sublime thoughts and pure desires. In order to receive divine inspirations and good thoughts, it is necessary always to preserve the heart in repentance, humility and holiness.
 
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The promises of Jesus
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven"(Mt 5:3).   

Interpretation

Do not depend on or delight in material gains, wealth or human abilities. 

Trust in and depend on God, and God's promises.
 
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"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God"(Mt 5:8).  

Interpretation

In a heart that banishes all selfish desires, the Holy Spirit will inspire and instil sublime and lofty desires. "Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord" (Rom 12:11).
 
Examine the desires of the heart, purify them and make them pleasing to God. 

He will then be glorified in us. Our life will become blessed.

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Praying through the Word of God

 

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting"(Ps 139:23,24).
 

O Holy God, give me a share in your great holiness. Loving Father, through the merits of the crucifixion of your only Son, Jesus Christ, give me complete salvation. Wash away all my sins and their guilt with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Send forth your Holy Spirit and make me a new person. Bless me so that I may live for the glory of God and for the salvation of all men and for eternal life.