Many struggle with shame and hesitation when going to confession, a difficulty rooted in spiritual warfare between angels and demons. Demons instill paralyzing shame to prevent confession, while angels offer respectful help when asked. Overcoming this struggle involves praying to one's guardian angel, invoking the angel who cast out the tempting demon, and seeking the intercession of Our Lady. Consecration to Jesus through Mary is a powerful aid in this spiritual battle.
Confession is a sacrament that many find difficult to approach, often due to feelings of shame and hesitation. This struggle, however, has a solution that is not widely known. Understanding the spiritual dynamics behind this difficulty can transform the experience of confession and help overcome the barriers that prevent many from receiving God's pardon.
A fundamental principle to grasp is that our souls are a battlefield where angels and demons constantly wage war. Contrary to the common illusion that our choices are made in isolation, our actions are influenced by these spiritual beings.
This ongoing battle affects our moral decisions and our spiritual well-being.
When tempted to sin, the act often feels surprisingly easy, and shame seems absent. This ease in committing sin contrasts sharply with the difficulty many experience when it comes time to confess and seek forgiveness.
Interestingly, some people find it easier to confess their sins to friends than to a priest, despite the priest's role in granting absolution. This paradox is not natural but is influenced by the spiritual warfare at play.
Many saints, including Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Saint John Chrysostom, and Saint John Marie Vianney, have taught that the intense shame and fear felt before confession are temptations from the devil.
Thus, the hesitation to confess is not solely our own but is exacerbated by demonic influence.
To overcome this spiritual obstacle, we must actively seek help from the angels and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Our guardian angel is a powerful ally who can help prevent demonic temptations and strengthen us to make a good confession. Regular prayer to the guardian angel invites their protection and guidance.
According to tradition, each demon was cast into hell by a specific angel during the battle at the beginning of creation. Praying to the angel responsible for casting out the particular demon tempting us can be a powerful defense.
A suggested prayer is:
"Oh dear angel, who is responsible for casting that particular demon into hell, come to my assistance. Prevent him from tempting me now."
Any prayer is more powerful when offered through the intercession of Our Lady, the Queen of Angels. Asking Mary for the grace to overcome shame and the strength to confess is essential.
One of the most effective spiritual practices to aid confession and overcome sin is the consecration to Jesus through Mary, as taught by Saint Louis de Montfort. This consecration involves giving oneself entirely to Jesus through the hands of Mary, becoming a "slave of love" to Jesus.
Many have testified that this consecration helped them confess after years of struggle and overcome serious vices. It is a profound way to receive divine assistance in the spiritual battle.
The shame and hesitation experienced before confession are not natural but are influenced by demonic forces seeking to prevent us from receiving God's grace. Recognizing that we are in a spiritual war is the first step to overcoming these obstacles.
By praying to our guardian angel, invoking the angel who cast out the demon tempting us, and seeking the intercession of Our Lady, we can find the strength to make a good confession. The consecration to Jesus through Mary is a powerful spiritual tool that has helped many overcome their struggles.
Remember, confession is a path to healing and grace, and with divine assistance, the barriers of shame can be overcome.
