See to it that no one captivate you with an empty, seductive philosophy according to the tradition of men, according to the elemental powers of the world, and not according to Christ. // Colossians 2:8
It was a hotly debated topic. I knew the arguments for and against it—countless people sang its praises, while others warned of potential dangers to the soul. Fear-mongers, I mused. Curiosity tugged at me, so I decided to test the waters for myself. I was a strong Catholic, I reasoned; I was mature enough in my faith that I’d be unaffected by any alleged pitfalls or temptations. I would judge the merits based on my own experience.
As they say, pride goeth before a fall.
My arrogance in the face of spiritual danger did not exempt me from said danger. Instead, it flung open the door of my soul in invitation to the enemy. What followed was a season of darkness and anxiety that divided my soul. Externally I still appeared confident and lighthearted, but internally, I was plagued with caustic self-reliance and a painful distance from God. Still, I clung fiercely to the “empty, seductive philosophy” that had captivated me (Colossians 2:8). I dismissed any evidence that didn’t fit the narrative I’d bought into, and justified away my quiet whisperings of conscience to block out the truth.
It took an experience of deliverance that I couldn’t ignore for me to finally concede to the truth. For so long, I’d been terrified to admit I was wrong and detach from my seductive philosophy. Yet when I finally let go, I felt profound relief. Surrendering my idol brought more freedom, humility, healing, and peace than I knew possible.
What worldly practices, enticements, or relationships are currently taking up more room in your heart than God? The tighter your hold on these things, the less you’ll be able to receive His lasting healing and freedom for you. You might be clinging to them out of fear; you might feel defensive at the mere thought of letting go.
Today, share those feelings and fears with your Loving Lord. Give Him permission to influence your thoughts and desires—and even to gently correct you for the safety of your soul. The joy and peace you’ll find in His Truth is worth infinitely more.
Megan Hjelmstad is a wife, enthusiastic hockey mom, and Army Veteran living in Denver, CO. In her “spare” time she serves as a Catholic Writer, Speaker, and Women’s Mentor, helping women to embrace their God-given dignity and deepen their prayer relationship with the Lord. She is the author Offer it Up: Discovering the Power and Purpose of Suffering, a writer for SpiritualDirection.com, and a longtime team member of Blessed is She. Megan adores books, sleep, sunshine, and Colorado’s great outdoors almost as much as she adores Jesus in the Eucharist. Learn more at MeganHjelmstad.com.
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