THEOSISGregory the Great
Their spirit shall perish in the tempest, as stated in Job 36:14. For they appeared to exist in peace when they delighted in the admiration that comes from a life of holiness. Yet the spirit, which once reveled in the dangerous comfort of human accolades, perishes in an unexpected storm. Often, an unforeseen tempest brings an abrupt change to tranquil discourse, and this peril is unavoidable because it cannot be predicted. Thus, it is said that the hypocrites, who neglect to be vigilant about their conduct, perish in a storm. A sudden inward turmoil casts them aside, revealing that their prideful pursuit of external approval elevates them falsely. While they basked in the praises of others, they are abruptly confronted with the truth of their essence.
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Solomon rightly stated, "The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold; but the Lord trieth the hearts," as found in Proverbs 17:3. For admiration afflicts the righteous but elevates the ungodly. Yet, while it causes distress, it simultaneously refines the just, and delight in praise brings condemnation to the wicked. The wicked indulge in their accolades because they seek not the glory of their Creator. In contrast, those who pursue the glory of God are troubled by praise, concerned that what is said of them outwardly may not reflect their true inner selves. They dread that if such commendation is valid, it may lead to their downfall before God. The accolades of men may soften their hearts and diminish their self-regard, transforming what should motivate them to strive harder into a current reward for their efforts. However, when they perceive their praises as pointing to the glory of God, they embrace and welcome it. As written, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven,” according to Matthew 5:16. They become a guiding path for others, recognizing God's qualities in their actions. They do not seek to draw human admiration to themselves but desire to proceed in their journey toward the glory of their Creator. Conversely, the proud barter away their tarnished hearts for human approval, enslaved by self-love, as noted in 2 Timothy 3:2: “Men shall be lovers of their own selves.” This very greed is rightly associated with the degradation of their lives. If they truly lived as men, the fleeting praises would not corrupt them. The prophet beseeches the elect, urging them: “Be strong, and let your heart take courage.” By saying “Be strong,” he immediately adds, “and let your heart take courage,” as though to safeguard the heart itself. The mind of one who loves luxury is injured when it finds pleasure in temporal possessions. Thus, the life of the hypocrites decays amidst indulgence, leading to the demise brought on by the luxury of glory. The alternative translation of the LXX is not included here, stating, “Their life among the pampered,” but rather, “Let their life be afflicted by angels.” Although these phrases differ in expression, they convey a similar message, as angels afflict the lives of the indulgent when the messengers of truth pierce them with the arrows of righteous preaching. Having examined the fate of the wicked, let us now consider the salvation offered to the humble.