A Multitude of Angels

It happened that Moses, who lived in Petra, was struggling with the temptation to fornication. Unable stay any longer in the cell, he went and told Isidore about it. He advised him to return to his cell. But he refused, saying, "Abba, I cannot."

Then Isidore took Moses out onto the terrace and said to him, "Look towards the west."

He looked and saw hordes of demons standing about and making a noise before launching an attack.

Then Isidore said to him, "Look towards the east."

He turned and saw an innumerable multitude of holy angels shining with glory. Isidore said, "See, these are sent by the Lord to the saints to bring them help, while those in the west fight against them. Those who are with us are more in number than they are against us" (cf. Kings 6:16).

So Moses gave thanks to God, plucked up courage and returned to his cell.