Saint Michael

I've recently been more diligent about saying the Saint Michael Prayer, which goes:


St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Got this version from EWTN http://www.ewtn.com/devotionals/prayers/michael.htm

I started saying this prayer more regularly due to stress, and noticing myself becoming more frequently worked and agitated to the point that I'd find myself harboring angry thoughts, and on sometimes even blowing up or venting to loved ones about them. Even though I knew I didn't want this to happen, regardless of my will it was incredibly difficult to fight it off at times. I figured that there must some other forces at work here, though not necessarily to blame for my actions, but in sense, cheering me on towards those "Low" moments. So I started trying to make a daily practice of saying the Saint Michael prayer every morning, and every night, and I must say I have been astounded by the effect this prayer has had on my self control. I truly feel that I am no longer cheered on to sin, but more importantly encouraged to control temptation. When the temptations arise, I don't even have to remind myself that I've said the prayer earlier, but I am sometimes surprised when I realize that I've resisted temptation, and then I'll remember that I did say the prayer earlier in the day, and I am very grateful. Sometimes I am also inspired to pray it when I'm on the brink of falling into temptation, and the strength I receive is very real. Of course, I do not always resist, but that is because of my own failings, and lack of cooperation with God's Will.

I also realize that the intercession of Saint Michael helps the symptoms, but does not act as a cure for the cause, and I must now work to conform my free will to God's Grace, through the sacraments, prayer and sacrifice. Saint Michael, I believe helps with the symptoms so that we can more clearly diagnose the cause. Prayer to the Saints and Angels helps us, leading us closer to Christ, and closer to the Truth, Love, Joy and Eternal happiness.