The Impact of Evil on One's Spiritual Life: Reevaluation of God, Worship, and Discipline

Evil, in its various forms, poses a significant challenge to one's spiritual life. For many, evil seeks to sow discord and redirect individuals away from divine love towards earthly desires and hatred. This discourse explores the concept of evil in the context of spiritual life, the role of organized religion, and how structured worship and discipline can help individuals combat and transcend these challenges.

Origins and Definitions of Evil

The term 'evil' has its roots in the idea of 'exceeding that which is good.' It is a concept that transcends simple definitions and often appears in both religious and secular contexts. Heidi Paul from Life Counseling as Led and Taught by the Holy Spirit explains that evil is a generic term for sin. Cindy Leonard, a Nursing Assistant, defines evil in terms of the atheist's lust. Meanwhile, Clifford Buxton, who studied Religion at Brigham Young, instructs that evil means the opposite of integrity. Ultimately, the term 'evil' is defined as 'tearing the ass out of it,' indicating a fundamental disruption of the good.

Linguistic Significance in Religious and Spiritual Life

The origins of words are crucial in religious and spiritual life because God and angels use human words with precise meanings. When God speaks, He uses words as they were initially meant, devoid of lazy approximations. This precision underscores the importance of understanding words in their original contexts. For instance, the term 'settle' in the context of the Eucharist means to create peace and friendship, symbolizing the spiritual cleansing and readiness for communion.

The Role of Holy Communion and Worship in Combatting Evil

To counteract evil, structured and disciplined religious practices play a pivotal role. The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, settles evil in both the individual and the location. This ceremony, which originates from an agreement of peace, puts one in a state where communion with God is possible. This process is not passive but requires effort and regular acts of will.

Welcome to the structure of worship, which centers on regular participation in the Eucharist, allowing the heart to be open and love to flow. This structure is not just about performing rituals but about engaging in a cycle with pinnacle services and regular worship. Where organized religion, particularly in Roman Catholicism and Anglicanism, promotes a structured year called The Church’s Year, Evangelicals and Non-Conformists might create their own cycles.

However, a rigid and lazy approach to religion can lead to misconceptions. Some individuals believe that The Mass alone, without personal effort or will, automatically transports them to Heaven. This notion is false. Engagement with God requires ongoing effort, and the Eucharist alone is not a shortcut to perfection. The structure of religion serves to remove evil, fostering spiritual growth.

Consequences of Antipathy towards Organized Religion

On the flip side, a strong antipathy towards organized religion can lead to individualistic spiritual pursuits. This mindset often leaves individuals isolated and without the community support that structured worship offers. They may reject what organized religion presents, yet learn nothing substantial. They rule but do not serve, dictating their terms yet being unable to learn from others.

Ultimately, the question is not about what evil does to one's spiritual life but about personal control and spiritual growth. By controlling one's own evil, a person can grow in love, understanding, and wisdom, regardless of external religious structures. True spiritual life is a journey of continuous learning and growth, not a static destination.