Temptation lurks in every corner and tries to divert us from the good path of the Lord. Learn how to fight it using these powerful tools.
Detection
“You have not suffered any temptation that is not common to mankind. But God is faithful, and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear. Rather, when temptation comes, he will also give them a way out so that they can resist.” Corinthians 10:13
First of all, we must be clear about what we are talking about when we talk about temptation. I think that a good and simple way to express it is to refer to everything that takes us away from the path of the Lord, from the path that we choose and that with so much sacrifice we have remained firm in it.
Evasion
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12
Once the temptation is detected, we must put all our resources and activate them in order to evade their spectrum of power. Let us remember that nothing will affect us if we are not within its radius of action, which is why many times we should not try to test our spirit on our own, but wait for God to decide to test us: in the meantime, avoid every potential occasion of temptation.
Prevention
When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.” James 1:13
But now, what can we do from our humble place to prevent the constant attacks represented in the image of temptation? For nothing more than standing firm in our conviction to serve the Lord; doing everything that we are used to doing to follow his path: pray, be generous and grateful; constantly ask him to make us strong and good people and, above all, never leave us in this constant struggle.
Prayer
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” Galatians 6:1
Another weapon that we have but that on many occasions we do not know how to use. The combative power of prayer is often mistakenly taken as a constantly repeating mantra, a group of words that we repeat with no sense, confident that the volume of our voice will drive away all the evils that plague us. Well no, a heartfelt prayer from the heart will make a difference. Do the test and you'll see.
Action
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” Hebrews 4:15
Something that is extremely important once we get rid of the temptation, it is logical that we do not want it to return again, that is why it is of utmost importance to share what we have learned so that it can be of help for others. Everything that has served you can be of great help to those who are traveling through a path of doubt. Maybe that person just needs a word of encouragement or someone who hears it.