Volume IV Lesson #41

7/27/92

GROWTH

My dear one, because you do not see your interior growth being relayed to your exterior actions, does not mean that other people do not see your growth. It is the same, not only for you, but all My people. Remember, you are blind to many things of yourself, and what I do outwardly through you may not be noticed according to either your understanding or expectations. This, however, does not mean that My works through you go unnoticed.

When you grow slowly, it is difficult to see the change at once. Also, this is for your humility. The vices of the flesh need taming; and the worst vice, that of pride, is the most poisonous and the most difficult to tame! It is not as important for you to see the change as it is for you to be open, to be a vessel of love!

“When you are in the forest, it is hard to see the trees.” It is the same with spiritual growth. My people should not focus on where they are in their journey, because selfish vanity can develop. They should, rather, seek the journey lived by My Saints as a guide to assist them in identifying the path.

Why is it so necessary for you to know the great works I do through you? When you are totally empty is when you shall know; but by that point, you will not desire to know. Tame this vice of pride now! I am not only speaking to you, but to all My people. You are no different than they are. The human vices need to be tamed. How shrewd the subconscious to deceive you to experience self-pity and need for acceptance and praise of your graces! Put aside these harmful thoughts and continue to simply live quietly in My Love.

There is nothing you could say that I could not say without you! There is nothing you could do that I could not do without you! I molded you. I gave you the words to speak. I gave you the gift of knowledge. I gave you the strength and wisdom to succeed. So, as you receive, give back to Me what is Mine.

But also remember My Love for you, and that I need you because I came for you! I was broken for you, and so much desire your happiness and love. So, see My teachings, not as a reprimand, but as encouragement to face your vices and to surrender even more unto Me, that I may clean you and make you pure of your human vices of the flesh. I will replace them with the spiritual virtues of Heaven.

I regret to have exposed you, child, to your own inad­equate vices for the sake of My people, but My people shall come first, and you shall be last. For I will not let one of My lambs be lost. The gems of My Heart shall shine; and each, in their own beauty and rarity, have a priceless value!