Heavenly Places (050318) Manifest Destiny - Knowing Emptiness

There was once a monk who emptied himself so much that you could see the filling of God’s mighty power within his life. He is known as St. Benedict of Nursia. St. Benedict grew up in a wealthy family in Rome. He was very privileged, lacking nothing; he even had servants. However, there was something missing in his life. He was a believer, but he desired more of God. This led him to live a life of seclusion for three years. During this time, God filled him. However, he did not stay in seclusion! He is known for performing many great miracles. He raised people from the dead, cast out demons, and healed a boy of leprosy. Once, he prophesied to a king named Totila that he would die in ten years because of his wickedness, which was fulfilled. St. Benedict was so influential that he was seen as a threat to the church. They tried to assassinate him several times. Once they tried to poison him with a drink, but as he prayed over the drink, the cup shattered. Another time they poisoned his bread; however, a raven came and took it from his plate. St. Benedict was able to perform many of these miracles because he had emptied himself, which allowed God to fill him. He was so filled that he could manifest the power within him and transfer it to someone else.

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