Praying the Psalms with Augustine and Friends

Chapter 8 Psalms 131-150

Psalm 131 with John Cassian and Martin of Braga – The Danger of Pride and the Value of Humility Although the disgrace of pride is the last battle we fight, it is nonetheless the source of all sins and wrongful deeds, and it does not do away merely with its opposite virtue— that is, humility—but is actually the destroyer of all the virtues. That is why, although blessed David guarded his heart with great care so that he could boldly declare to him from whom the secrets of his conscience were not hidden: My heart is not proud, LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me (v. 1). He knew nevertheless how difficult it was even for the perfect to keep up this guard, and he did not presume on his own effort alone, but, in order to be able to escape unharmed this enemy’s dart, prayerfully implored the Lord’s help and said: “May the foot of pride not come against me” (Ps 35:12). And he

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