My children, whatever grievous thing the devil, the enemy of our souls,reminds you of, make an effort to drive it away immediately without delay,for every delay brings about unfavorable consequences.
The devil is completely vanquished with prayer and vigilance. The essence of watchfulness consists of being sleeplessly vigilant with the nous, pitting it against the passionate thoughts and fantasies of the vile demons.
On this depends life or death, degradation or improvement. In other words, a soul that prays noetically and loathes and scorns the various evil thoughts is purified and sanctified with time.
Elder Ephraim of Arizona
My child, be patient in everything, for the reward is great. Do not look at the weight of afflictions, but consider the payment: your light afflictions reserve eternal glory for you in the heavens that far outweigh them all. (cf. 2 Cor. 4:17 ).
For this reason you should rejoice instead of grieving. Thank our good God in everything and do not let our enemy see you lose your patience, because then he will attack you even more in order to demolish the wall of patience completely.
Elder Ephraim Arizona
It is very consoling, my child, that each one of us will receive his reward based on how much he has labored for the love of Christ. It involves much labor to bear the burden of souls in the present era which is ruled by egotism and self will.
Let us not lose our courage; for invisibly present is Jesus, Who will rebuke the stormy sea of trials and bring the calm of grace. Struggle upon the raging waves; call upon the only all-powerful God:
“Lord, Lord, look down from heaven and behold my trials and perfect my soul to do Thy will, for Thou art my God.” (cf. Ps. 79:15-16 ).
Elder Ephraim of Arizona
Do not lose courage in the struggle, our Christ is invisibly standing by, observing the struggle of each one of us.
Therefore, struggle patiently, call out the name of our Jesus, so that it may be implanted within your hearts and so that you may become rich in the grace of God.
Struggle to acquire a pure intellect, so that you may feel the grace of the Holy Resurrection.
Counsels from the Holy Mountain
Elder Ephraim of Arizona
