Sacramentals vs. Superstitions, and Getting to Know God

Fr. Josh answers questions about how to properly use sacramentals and how to grow in relationship with God when prayer is tough.

“Catholics sometimes approach sacramentals as if they are magic or having power in and of themselves, instead of approaching them as instruments of grace.”

Questions

Sacramentals vs. Superstitions

Hello Father,

I have been wondering about this question for a while and I am hoping you can help me. I know that the blessed candles and other things, incense, blessed salt, holy water, blessed oil, the Church uses is not superstition. However many people have recommended keeping such things in my home. I like the idea, and love the tradition and rituals of the Church. I am unsure how to use those things in a non superstitious way.
I have some blessed candles but have been reluctant to light them because I don't want to fall into superstition. Can I light one while I pray for the deceased? What does lighting the candle do?

-Gwynne

Getting to Know God

How do I "really" get to know God? I try to read the Bible and pray, but I usually lose interest quickly in reading and my prayers tend to be negative, which gets me distracted and frustrated and I start questioning if He really does exist and if he does that he doesn't want to hear my problems. Spiritually, I am a hot mess and I don't know where to begin in building and keeping a solid foundation with Him and the Church and how to incorporate this into my everyday life and relationships.

-Kim