The pride within us prevents our souls from embracing the path of faith.
For those who doubt, I offer this advice: utter the words, “Lord, if You exist, illuminate me, and I will wholeheartedly and sincerely serve You.” With such a humble mindset and willingness to serve God, the Lord will undoubtedly shed light upon them.
However, it is important not to say, “If You exist, punish me,” for if punishment were to come, you might not have the strength to express gratitude to God or seek repentance.
Excerpt from Amidst the despairing hell and the humbling depths of hell, by Archimandrite Sophrony
