How do you deal with various temptations?

In this material world we see temptations everywhere so we need to be responsible for ourselves. We should fight these temptations through our positive behaviour. Temptation is a wide open door to sin so I avoid people and situations that may lead me to fall. For example, to avoid overspending or material desires, I set a plan to buy only those that I need. I keep away from shopping areas with items on sale or in times of “garage sale”. Palatable food can be inviting and one can be tempted to overeating which leads to the sin of gluttony. In this case I choose to eat at simple restaurants that serve healthy foods. Often I prefer to cook healthy meals at home. Knowing ones personal limitations and weaknesses is important in avoiding various temptations in life.

—Ace Jing Buen

As a Christian and as a legionary, I must be aware of the presence of Christ and as I accept Mother Mary as a model of my life. I am her follower. And being so, I must always remember how I should handle temptations when they occur. For example, if somebody shouts or gets mad at me without any valid reason, this will make me fall into the temptation to hate or retaliate. But being sensitive to the presence of the Holy Spirit and guidance of Mama Mary, I am always reminded to love God, and love my neighbour as I love myself. And because of this, I try to be calm and ask myself “Why did he do this to me”? Maybe God wants me to change the people around me or maybe God wants me to become a better person. God wants us to listen and see the light, to be alert, attentive and be watchful. Furthermore, I always keep in mind to stay away from the people that can lead me to sin.

On the temptation to buy, I always think carefully if it is a need or a want. If it is only out of a want, I will not buy any. 

— Imelda Mangnaye

Temptation is quite inevitable. Everyone is struggling to resist it. For example: gossip, when two person pass along information which may destroy someone else’s reputation either in the community, in workplace, in school or in other places. Spreading rumours and making quips can be hurtful especially if it’s untrue. Leviticus 19:16 says, “You shall not go about spreading slander among your people; nor shall you stand by idly when your neighbour’s life is at stake.” You can avoid gossip by saying something helpful and encouraging.

— Lerma Monreal

As a human being, it’s part of life to deal with various temptations that come our way. It’s a never-ending challenge that we have to face as long as we live. In every situation, I would try to think twice about the outcome of whatever decision I will make. Shall I do it or not? Above all, I pray to God for guidance and strength to have self-discipline to avoid temptation. I know by not giving in, I will have a peaceful mind.

— Felyn Navarrete

To resist temptations, we should sometimes say no to someone or to ourselves. It reminds us that we have our limitations. Then we should reflect and pray in silence. We may need to ask for professional guidance to help us if we face a serious temptation. 

— Agnes Navarro

Temptation is about self control.  Everyone faces temptation. It happens to all human beings. Overseas workers like me who live far away from our family and loved ones may need to deal with various temptations without much emotional support. Well, I could say that being in a Catholic community for 20 years really helped me a lot and is still helping me to deal with every temptation that comes my way. I strongly believe that what comes around goes around. The homilies I hear every Sunday serve as reminders that God knows all my thoughts, my words and my actions. Nothing is hidden from our Almighty Father. I have posted certain Bible quotes or mottos on my Facebook account, and I am trying to apply them to my everyday life. Somehow, these messages serve as a big help on how I dealt with all the temptations I have faced or will be facing.

— Ma Suzette Rodrigueza