by Ainish Philip
We all face temptations in different ways. It gives us a sense of gratification, pleasure, and momentary happiness. Satan shows us an immediate moment of glory and we let down our defences. What he does not show us is the long term effects of falling into temptation. He does not show us the teen crying all alone in the dark of the room, bouts of anger, depression, guilt, and low self-esteem. So how do we overcome it? This is the question which hounds our mind.
Acknowledge it: We might be very holy and prayerful but it is wise to admit that we can fall anytime. Our over confidence could turn out to be a recipe for disaster. “Do not rely on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).
Avoid it: Simply put, stay away from temptation. Don’t go looking for satan just to show that you can resist his attacks. The Bible clearly teaches us to "FLEE" from every temptation. When you see a charging dog coming against you, you don’t just stand there, you RUN! “Flee the desires of your youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22).
Shift your focus: Don’t keep thinking of the temptation, instead focus on Jesus. By constantly thinking of the temptation, we give more priority to the temptation until it overcomes us. Focus the attention to Jesus who also underwent temptation like us, yet came out unscathed, without sin (Hebrews 3:15). Take temptations as challenges, and not opportunities to fall into sin.
Do not compromise: Satan says, “Let’s make a pact, give in to me and I'll give you the thing you're looking for." Oh, boy, you will find at times, when you open the laptop, you might come across some objectionable websites. You might be tempted to reply to those late night calls or texts. If you compromise saying, “So what? This isn’t gonna harm me anyway” there are chances you might be compromising with the evil one.
Pray over the area of temptation: “Pray always and do not lose heart" (Luke 18:1). You’ve heard this a million times! But that’s true. We give in to temptations because we don’t pray enough. So what’s most important above all is not our will-power, computer filters, or accountability, but giving ourselves completely to Jesus in prayer. Make mental prayers and be in conversation with Jesus. Just taking the name of Jesus over and again in our minds will help us overcome the temptation. Pray the holy Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Mercy Chaplet, or simply, praise the Lord. Read the Word of God and memorise it. Stick it on the walls of your room, or in front of your study table. Maybe one sticky note with a Bible verse on your laptop (why not?). Make prayerful friends who will help you grow spiritually.
Regular Confession: On a weekly basis (what? You kidding me?) Why not? For those who cannot make it once a week, try going at least once a month. It is the best way we humble ourselves and begin afresh. Don’t forget going to the Holy Mass.
We enter into the month of November. Why not pray each day with a saint of our choice? Let’s make this work. Let’s overcome temptation and win the battle to be with Jesus!
I’ll leave you here with a quote. "Do not grieve over the temptations you suffer. Look upon every temptation as an invitation to grow in a particular virtue and a promise by God that you will be successful, if only you stand fast." -St. Philip Neri
Stay in grace. Stay with Jesus.
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