The Noonday Devil

Beware the Noonday Devil

By Carl R. ToersBijns

The Church's monastic tradition sees as one of the most dangerous enemies of the spiritual life what the psalmist calls "the noonday devil" (Ps 91:6). The monks took this phrase as an apt description of the lethargy or fatigue they battled at about midday. Today this phrase can lead to thoughts of how corrupt public leaders have become wrongful influences in our lives and morality.

These noonday devils preached a “what’s the use” attitude that precipitated apathy and pointless bickering. This approach is designed to tire you out and wear you down as you are worn down to conforming to the devil’s wishes. We all know when you are exhausted, you begin to compromise and compromise leads you to defeat.

Thus this is a plea to stay awake and be alert of the noonday devil. Don’t listen to his words as he corrupts your mind and heart. Ask for strength to resist his words and evil deeds as you face temptation and to fall asleep mentally.

This noonday devil preaches hate, discontent, laziness and sloth like manners. It desecrates the value of life and brings death as a normal situation to be in as all that live will eventually die.

This devil brings sadness and sorrow. There are many side effects that are too numerous to bring about but nevertheless a reality we must face each day of our lives.

Remember God’s goodness and don’t become bored with God’s wisdom. Do not respond to the noonday devil and his evil ways. Instead respond to God’s love, wisdom and goodness as His works are wonders of this Earth.

Do not fall to the symptoms of laziness and fall into the pit of fire because you made no effort to heed this spiritual warning. Fill you time with the goodness and not the evils of life. Face the world with optimism and hope that all men are created equal and deserve the pursuit of happiness as we focus on the important things in life.

Do not rush into the devil’s arms by being unaware of these evil pitfalls and surround yourself with those who are going to lift you higher. Surround yourself in a culture that embraces the good things in life and have faith in what you believe in.

Most of all, do not be so busy that you are asleep to the very things that mater. Don’t ride the fast lane of life and forget all that you have been taught about reflection and thoughts that bring hope and happiness to those that seek the word that is so divine.  Do no avoid the reality as it exists to avoid giving your heart and soul to humanity and not what is evil.