4. Combat desolation
Spiritual desolation is experienced as darkness in the face of divine truth, insensitivity to the Word of God, sluggishness in doing good, distance from God. This desolation can have unexpected strength and sway the good resolutions you had just a day before. St. Ignatius said that in a state of desolation, what’s important is: more prayer and more meditation, the examination of conscience (seek out why you’re having desolation) and finally, applying an adequate penance.