FASTING AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS

FASTING AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS


When fasting, you should fast in body, and in heart; abstaining from meat, gossip and slander. Do not say - this person is good or this person is bad. The fasting tongue is better than the fasting mouth; and when the heart abstains from wrath, that it better than both.
...

Fasting is an essential function for every Christian in this world. Christ Himself fasted, although He did not need to, but He wanted to teach us that the trials of the devil can only be controlled through fasting. By fasting we also receive spiritual gifts, become closer to God, and our prayers are accepted.
...

St Isaac the Great said, "A little cloud can obscure the sun, but after having passed, the sun reappears as it was." The same thing applies to the tribulations faced by [a true Christian], although they are difficult, they enlighten his soul after they pass.

Thank God who allows temptations and for all good things that work together for the good of them who love and trust in the Lord. And I, myself, as you know, have received many spiritual benefits. This is one of God's blessings.
...


Saint Pope Kyrollos the Sixth
Christian Behavior According to Saint Pope Kyrollos the Sixth
By: Pope Kyrollos VI Sons
Pages 7 and 43 and 68
St. Mina Monastery Press, Cairo, Egypt, 2000
032009

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
"A Little Spiritual Help" is for
HEALING LIFE, DEEPENING FAITH, ENRICHING PRACTICE, and REFRESHING SPIRIT http://groups.yahoo.com/group/spiritualhelp/
Subscribe: spiritualhelp-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Also on Facebook
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Sponsored by Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3
Madison, Wisconsin 53704
Sundays 9:30am ~ 608.242.4244
transfiguration@usa.com
http://www.maruroopa.blogspot.com/