Avoiding the occasions of sin

And that is what happens if we run into temptation on purpose.  So it is very important that, if we can, we avoid the ‘occasions of sin’, that is, those situations which have in the past resulted in our committing sins.

Praying in temptation

St Paul has told us that God never allows any temptation to happen to us which we cannot overcome if we turn to him for help (1 Corinthians 10:13).  In times of temptation we should say a quick prayer, “Jesus, help me”.  But you must do it at once before the temptation becomes too much for you.

SUMMARY

1. A temptation is anything which tries out the strength and weakness of our souls when it comes to choosing between right and wrong.  The Devil tempts us in the hope we will choose wrong.  God lets him in the hope that we may choose right and he helps us to do this.

2. Temptation strengthens our wills and characters when we choose right, but we avoid it when we can in case we give way and sin.