This is a great way to do an examination of conscience! 🙌
In this episode of "The Catholic Gentleman", John Heinen, Devin Schadt, and Sam Guzman discuss the “six P's” that help you answer the question: am I living for the world, or am I on my way to heaven?
1. Power
Power examines our desire for control over others. “Am I exercising intimidation [or] manipulation?" Schadt asks. He reminds us that true leadership follows Christ's example: "‘Let the greatest among you become the servant.’"
2. Profit
Profit examines our relationship with wealth. Guzman says, "Money gives you both security and control but there's no end to them either, so you always have more desire, you always need more."
Heinen cautions against this endless pursuit, reminding us that "The love of money is the root of all evil." (1 Timothy 6:10).
3. Pleasure
Pleasure examines how we seek comfort. Although pleasure is a good created by God, it can become problematic when used as an escape or to numb pain.
"We do this because we're avoiding the reality that we could be more, but we don’t believe we can be more," Schadt explains.
4. Prominence
Prominence examines our desire for recognition and fame.
Ask yourself: are you seeking to elevate yourself or to glorify God? Heinen cautions that "friendship with the world makes us enemies of God."
5. Possessions
Possessions examine our attachment to material goods. Heinen explains that it's not about owning things, but how much those things own us.
"If the stocks go down, does it steal all your inner peace?"
Letting go allows us to fully trust in God's Providence.
6. Prestige
Prestige examines our pursuit of status and social standing. Schadt cautions that prestige and the six P's aren’t inherently bad, but "when we are using these for our own self to build ourselves up," we stray into pride.
The gentlemen say that examining these six P's will help you realign your life with your faith and keep your eyes on eternity!