"Power goes out from Christ, not traveling from one location to another, but rather imparted to others while remaining in Christ undiminished. It is the same with teachings, which remain with those who teach, and yet are imparted to those who learn." - Blessed Theophylact.

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Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid." (Jn 14:27). My children, trust that God will not let us be tempted beyond our strength; along with the temptation will come the help of God. Our Christ tells us that if they hated Me they will also hate you (Jn 15:18); if they persecuted and blasphemed and cursed Me, they will also persecute and blaspheme and curse you. And they will do these things to you because they do not know God and "they know not what they do (Lk 23:43)."

We, my children, know God, and because we love Him and are His, the world hates us, since it does not agree with Him. Therefore have courage, my children; we are followers of the One Who was crucified by them; so we too will be crucified by trials and temptations. Just as He was resurrected, we too will be resurrected and glorified together with Him unto the ages of ages.

The devil has raised a storm, but it will die down because God is all-powerful, and nothing can happen without His divine will. God is with us. Christ reigns within us, within as many of us as were baptized into Christ, and we are not afraid. Perhaps we shall enter into temptations, but our Deliverer is near, for He said, "I have overcome the world" (Jn 16:33). Therefore, we will also be victorious, even if the sea surges threateningly for the moment. Do not be afraid of anyone; fear only God Who is able to cast us into the fire of hell, if we are not careful.

So, "blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Mt. 5:10) Do not forget what the Christians of the past suffered in order to keep their faith in our Christ; they hid within the catacombs; they were persecuted and afflicted. We also are blessed, who are persecuted because of our desire to worship God and to guard our chastity.

We shall go through much. But in the end, the crucified Jesus will be victorious; for the Cross is our glorious banner. 

So do not fear; God is with us.