Introduction
Life isn’t just about the body and mind. We, as humans, are also spiritual beings, and the Catholic Church teaches that our spiritual health is just as important as our physical and mental well-being. The Scriptures and the teachings of the Church offer valuable insights into recognizing the symptoms of a dying spiritual life.
1. Lack of Faith in God
When we stop believing in God or question His existence, we’re showing a clear sign of spiritual dying. As Hebrews 11:6 states, “Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” If you find yourself doubting, you are distancing yourself from God, which is a dangerous sign.
2. Infrequent Prayer
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “Prayer is the raising of one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God” (CCC 2559). If you find that your prayer life is lacking or non-existent, your spiritual life is likely suffering.
3. Neglect of the Sacraments
Particularly, if you neglect the Sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation, you’re neglecting the core of Catholic spiritual nourishment. Jesus Himself told us, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you” (John 6:53).
4. Disobedience to God’s Commandments
In 1 John 5:3, we read, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” If you find yourself consistently breaking the Ten Commandments, it’s a signal your spiritual life is in decline.
5. Turning a Blind Eye to Suffering
When we fail to act as the Good Samaritan did and turn away from those in need, we’re turning away from God. “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me,” said Jesus (Matthew 25:40).
6. Engaging in Gossip or Slander
The Bible warns us, “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler” (Proverbs 20:19). If you find yourself frequently speaking ill of others, it’s a clear sign your spiritual health is compromised.
7. Lack of Charity
St. Paul tells us, “If I have not love, I gain nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:3). If your actions lack love and compassion, it’s a symptom that your spiritual life is unhealthy.
8. Being Consumed by Material Possessions
Jesus warns us, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal” (Matthew 6:19). A preoccupation with material wealth indicates a lack of focus on God.
9. Holding Grudges and Unforgiveness
Jesus teaches us to forgive others, stating, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14). Holding grudges shows an absence of God’s mercy in your life.
10. Being Lukewarm in Faith
The Book of Revelation warns, “So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth” (Revelation 3:16). A tepid faith is a symptom of a dying spiritual life.
11. Pride and Arrogance
The Bible warns against pride. “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). If you find yourself being prideful and rejecting the guidance of the Church or the Scriptures, your spiritual life is at risk.
12. Neglect of Fellowship
The Bible emphasizes the importance of fellowship with other believers. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Avoiding community is a sign of a spiritually unhealthy life.
13. Rejecting Godly Counsel
When you turn away from wise advice and choose to walk in your own ways, you’re rejecting God’s wisdom. “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future” (Proverbs 19:20).
14. Indulging in Sinful Behavior
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The Catechism teaches that mortal sin destroys charity in the heart and turns us away from God (CCC 1855). When you willfully commit serious sins, your spiritual life is endangered.
15. Losing Hope
The virtue of hope is necessary for a Christian life. As Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
Conclusion
The above signs are universal teachings, based on the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, that indicate a spiritual life in decline. Recognizing these symptoms early on can help in taking corrective actions. As we’re reminded in James 4:8, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” Let’s heed this advice to nourish our spiritual lives.
Please note: This article aims to be consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church. If you find yourself relating to these signs, seek spiritual guidance from a trusted priest or religious advisor.
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Note: While content aims to align with Catholic teachings, any inconsistencies or errors are unintended. For precise understanding, always refer to authoritative sources like the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Always double-check any quotes for word-for-word accuracy with the Bible or the Catechism of the Catholic Church.