Self-Preaching: A Powerful Prompt for Spiritual Growth and Healing

The phrase 'preaching to oneself' might initially sound oxymoronic or redundant, but it holds a transformative power in the realm of faith and personal development. This practice, often rooted in Christian teachings and shared by spiritual leaders like St. Therese of Lisieux, can serve as a guide for growing closer to God and achieving profound personal transformations.

St. Therese of Lisieux: A Champion of Self-Preaching

As a nun stationed in the Carmel cloister, St. Therese of Lisieux dedicated her life to prayer and self-sacrifice, which paradoxically became instrumental in the success of Catholic missions around the world. Her dedication and unwavering faith inspired countless souls, making her a Doctor of the Catholic Church and a patron saint of missionaries. Pope St. Pius X praised her as the greatest saint of modern times, highlighting her profound impact.

St. Therese, known as the Little Flower, taught us that every action and word, even when seemingly insignificant, can be a profound act of faith. Just as her parents were also canonized saints, her example resonates deeply in faith communities worldwide.

Practicing Self-Preaching Through Spiritual Practices

Practicing self-preaching involves actively engaging with sacred texts and teachings on a regular basis. This could include:

Rehearsing Scriptural Passages: Rehearsal in this context doesn’t just mean reciting or memorizing; it means internalizing and embedding the teachings of the gospel. When you repeatedly read passages like Romans, especially Romans 3, and chapters from John such as the entirety of John 3, and Matthew’s Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5–7), you create a deeper understanding and connection with God. Reading the New Testament: Consistently reading through the New Testament (N.T.) can reinforce your faith and provide a comprehensive understanding of Christian teachings. Reflecting on Prayers and Devotions: Engaging in regular prayer, such as the aforementioned prayers for healing, deliverance, and protection, can bring healing and spiritual growth to your life.

Just as rehearsal and editing are crucial for performance, self-preaching requires continuous refinement and application. It’s not about just memorizing the words, but truly letting them resonate within your soul and guiding your actions.

The Power of Self-Preaching for Personal Transformation

Self-preaching is not just about preaching to others; it’s a powerful tool for personal transformation. It helps you:

Remind Yourself of Core Beliefs: We all fall short in our faith journeys. Continuously revisiting the foundational teachings of the gospel keeps these core beliefs at the forefront of your mind. Connect with God Personally: When you share the gospel with others, remember that you are also preaching to yourself. This dual approach can deepen your own relationship with God. Elevate Your Spirit: By engaging with spiritual texts and acts of faith, you raise your own spiritual bar, providing a constant source of personal growth and inspiration.

Self-preaching requires an openness to vulnerability and a willingness to embrace the imperfections that come with living a spiritual life. It’s a journey of continuous learning and transformation, where every small effort can lead to significant steps in your faith walk.

Conclusion

Neither the act of preaching, nor the practice of self-preaching is inherently absurd. When grounded in faith and a true desire for spiritual growth, self-preaching becomes a vital component of a thriving Christian life. It empowers individuals to stay connected to their beliefs, provides a path for personal transformation, and ultimately leads to deeper connections with God and others.