Relapsing Reduces Vigour (Patreon)

Within us lies a sacred, fiery spirit. This is the essence of a man's strength. The ancients called it the Virtus, and the learned physicians of our age know it as the source of a man's vigour, his boldness, the hair upon his face, and the power in his limbs.

This inner fire is not endless. It is a precious reserve, like the oil in a lamp. It is meant to be guarded, for it fuels a man’s holy works and his devotion. When it is spent wisely and with purpose, the body’s furnace creates more, keeping the lamp burning bright.

Now, the solitary sin is the act of spending this sacred fuel for no purpose but a moment of base pleasure. It is like taking the lamp’s oil and pouring it upon the dirt. The flame gutters and dims.

 When a man repeatedly spills his vital essence to no end, the body’s wisdom understands this as a terrible waste. Seeing that its most potent humour is not being used for its God-given purpose, it slows its creation. The furnace bank its fires. The reserve of manly spirit dwindles.

This is how the relapse reduces a man’s vigour:

1. The Body Grows Weak. The limbs lose their power for labour. The back slumps. A constant weariness sets in, for the fire that stokes the muscles is low.

2. The Mind Grows Clouded. Where there was once clarity for prayer and study, a fog of distraction descends. The will, conquered by appetite, cannot focus on higher things.

3. The Spirit Grows Timid. The courage that comes from a full reserve of spirit is replaced by anxiety and fearfulness. The man becomes less than he was meant to be.

Therefore, the path is clear. To keep the inner fire burning strong, a man must cease the wasteful act. 

Guard your fortress.  Do not let the enemy within pillage your strength. Be steadfast, and through grace, your vigour will be restored.