As we navigate through the complexities and challenges of life, it’s easy to feel as though we’re in a constant battle. Indeed, in a spiritual sense, we are. St. Paul wasn’t kidding when he said, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12, NIV).
Saint Michael the Archangel, often depicted with a sword and scales, is one of the Church’s most potent protectors against evil. St. Michael’s heavenly role can serve as a model for our own spiritual warfare. The weapons he uses can be seen metaphorically as powerful tools that are also available to us in our spiritual journey. Let’s delve into these “weapons” of St. Michael: Prayer, Humility, and Justice.
Prayer: The Sword of the Spirit
What Prayer Is
Prayer is our way of communicating with God. It is a two-way street where we talk to God, and He speaks to us. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes prayer as “a vital and personal relationship with the living and true God” (CCC 2558). It’s our spiritual lifeline and a potent weapon against evil.
The St. Michael Prayer
The St. Michael prayer, penned by Pope Leo XIII in the 19th century, is an official prayer of the Church used specifically to call upon St. Michael for protection against evil. The prayer goes:
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; may God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.
This prayer, powerful in its wording and intention, is a potent tool against evil. It not only invokes St. Michael’s protection but also underscores our own role: we must be humble and trust in the divine power of God.
The Rosary: Another Powerful Prayer
The Rosary is another robust form of prayer. Pope St. John Paul II referred to it as a “compendium of the Gospel,” which makes it a profound weapon against evil. This prayer involves meditating on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and it fosters a deep relationship with Him, equipping us to face evil.
Humility: The Shield of Faith
Why Humility Matters
Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it’s thinking of yourself less and God more. The Catechism reminds us that, “The battle of prayer is inseparable from the necessary ‘spiritual battle’ to act habitually according to the Spirit of Christ: we pray as we live because we live as we pray” (CCC 2725).
St. Michael as the Model of Humility
The name “Michael” translates to “Who is like God?” St. Michael’s very name is a question that emphasizes God’s ultimate authority and power, which St. Michael humbly accepts and champions. In his battle against Lucifer, as described in Revelation 12:7-9, St. Michael casts out Satan and his minions from Heaven, but not before asking his profound question, “Who is like God?” That’s a lesson in humility if there ever was one.
The Power of Humility in Spiritual Warfare
Humility is essential in spiritual warfare. When we’re humble, we acknowledge that the fight against evil is not ours alone but God’s. As James 4:7 tells us, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (NIV). The act of submitting to God is an act of humility, and that itself can ward off evil.
Justice: The Scales of Righteousness
The Importance of Justice
Justice, often represented by scales, is about fairness, ethics, and balance. It also implies an order that God set in the world, which the Catechism describes as the “moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC 1807).
St. Michael and Divine Justice
St. Michael is often depicted holding scales, representing his role as an angel of justice. His duty is to weigh the souls of the deceased, determining their worthiness for Heaven or Hell based on God’s divine justice.
Living Justly in a Fallen World
As we navigate through life, striving for justice is critical. Micah 6:8 gives us straightforward advice: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (NIV). In striving for justice, we align ourselves with God’s will, becoming powerful opponents against evil.
Conclusion
In our constant struggle against evil, St. Michael the Archangel serves not only as a heavenly protector but also as a role model for how to engage in spiritual warfare. By wielding the metaphorical weapons of Prayer, Humility, and Justice, we can fortify our spiritual lives and stand strong against the powers of darkness.
The teachings outlined here are not theological opinions but are grounded in the Scriptures and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. They serve as reliable tools in the pursuit of a virtuous life and in the fight against evil. Just like St. Michael, we are called to ask, “Who is like God?” And in doing so, we acknowledge the ultimate power and authority of God in our lives, becoming capable warriors in the battle against evil.