Conformity to the Will of God.
“Not my will, but Thine be done.” — St. Matt. 36:39
FOURTH DAY.
Conformity to the will of God is a most powerful means of overcoming temptation, of correcting all kinds of imperfections, and of preserving peace of heart. It is an efficacious remedy for evil, and the Christian’s treasure. This conformity contains in itself in a most eminent degree all other virtues. — St. Vincent de Paul.
St. Vincent had such affection for this virtue that it might be called his favorite and principal one. It was the motive, the principle in his soul which animated all his exercises of piety, his holiest practices, and all his actions. When he placed himself in the presence of God before his actions, it was to say with St. Paul, “Lord, what wilt Thou that I do?” If he was careful to refer all things to God, to listen to Him; if he sought with care to discern between the movements of grace and those of nature — it was to know the will of God and to dispose himself to accomplish it. Finally, if he abhorred the maxims of the world and was closely attached to those of the Gospel; if he practiced renouncement of self and embraced with affection all the crosses that the Lord sent; if he would do all, suffer all, for Christ, it was that he might always and with all possible perfection be united to the will of God and all His designs over him, and to obtain grace to will only what He willed.
Prayer.
My God, grant that I may will only what Thou willest; let me know Thy will in order that I may please Thee.