Temptation
This week we see the story of Jesus’ temptation and it is a reminder that we need to stay close Him so as not to fall into sin. It is only human to be tempted but we can always turn away from temptation.
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
Fulton Sheen explains, it is only human to have passions that induce tension to the mind and body. These passions are all not bad but become wrong when the passions take control and our reasons are clouded. It is always a struggle to bring the mind and body together.
What happens when one is tempted?
Fulton Sheen explains that there are three stages to temptation:
- Suggestion- temptation comes in a form of suggestion. St Thomas Aquinas quotes that “temptation which comes from the enemy takes the form of a suggestion” – it is an indirect and subtle introduction to thought
- Delight – each person is tempted when he is lured or enticed by his own desire.
- Consent- it is when consent is given that we fall into sin. When one consents, the urges stop and reason sets in. If one does not know the mercy of God, then, one may go into despair.
Without temptation the soul cannot grow and become strong, there could be no wisdom, no real virtue; (James Allen, Above Life’s Turmoil)
We are reminded that we have a free will and we have the power within us to say “no” to temptation.
“Only the free will is capable of good or evil. St Pio
No temptations are beyond our strength.
God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. 1 Cor 10:13
And there is a reason when God allows temptation.
Do not grieve over the temptations you suffer. When the Lord intends to bestow a particular virtue on us, He often permits us first to be tempted by the opposite vice. St. Philip Neri