Some friends are having a hard time lately, so I reread this piece called “How to Survive Desolation.” It’s an excellent summary of what Ignatius had to say about coping with hard times. At the end the author says that Ignatius’ most profound insight was his focus on “sufficient grace.” Says Ignatius: “A person who is in desolation should recall that he can do much to withstand all of his enemies by using the sufficient grace that he has, and taking strength in his Creator and Lord.”
Paul too speaks of this in Second Corinthians:
“My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me.
Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
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Great article!! Although the article primarily addresses surviving desolation, it also provides some good insight into consolation and the wise use of times of consolation.