How the spirit differs from our Soul

The Catholic Church explains that the soul and the spirit are different. The soul is immortal and gives continuous life to the body. Our soul never dies, and at the end of life, after being judged, we will go to heaven or receive purification, or for some, eternity in isolation. It is said that when we sin, those sins remain on our souls until we make a sincere Reconciliation with God through Confession of our sins. How does the Holy Spirit help us? The Sacrament of Baptism, and through the life we live, allows the Holy Spirit not only to enter into our souls, but to remain within us. The Holy Spirit teaches us and inspires us to work toward a deeper, stronger relationship with God.

Our spirit, however, is separate from the soul, with the soul being the vital principle that gives life to the body and is immortal. The spirit, on the other hand, is the highest dimension of the human person, made for communion with God. The soul is the seat of our human faculties, including intellect, will, emotions, and memory.  It is said that a few of the qualities that determine a strong spirit include a positive mindset and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. With perseverance, a strong spirit does not give up easily. A strong spirit is focused on God and desires to leave a legacy that inspires and motivates others to follow Christ.

In researching whether our strength of spirit is God-given or determined by our will is quite a complex question. However, it must align with our belief that God is the all-powerful One, and we rely on His strength. Therefore, it is safe to say that when we love God with all our heart and soul, it is He, God, who provides us the spirit of strength to resist sin, and to serve God in such a way that people are drawn toward that disciple of Christ.