The English word “temptation” comes from the Latin temptare, which means “to test” or “to try.” From a Christian standpoint, however, temptations differ greatly from tests or trials in both their origin and their purpose.
Temptations designed to provoke us toward moral evil never come from God (James 1:13). According to the Council of Trent, such temptations arise from concupiscence of the flesh resulting from our disordered nature after Original Sin, incitements to succumb to the corruption of the world and follow the example of the wicked, and promptings of the devil and evil spirits who attempt to ensnare us. Their ultimate goal is to destroy the tempted, separate us from God through sin, and give birth to death (James 1:15).
Temptation can trick us into believing that something wrong is actually right. It might offer us a perceived benefit or persuade us to avoid something difficult. By itself, external temptation is not a sin. When we internalize the temptation–either partially by delighting in its prospect or fully by consenting to it completely–we risk engaging in sinful behavior. In such a way, temptation is an invitation to sin. It is an inducement to comply with thoughts, words, or actions that oppose right reason and God’s commandments. When we give in to temptation, we are granted a temporal pleasure at the cost of an eternal reward.
All humans, including Jesus Christ and his Holy Family, are subject to temptation. Saint Anthony the Great warns us to “Expect temptation to your last breath.” Although we can’t necessarily stop it, we certainly can try to avoid it. Numerous passages in the New Testament advise us to simply “resist” or “flee” when faced with temptation.
Whereas temptation is intended to lead us toward spiritual death, tests and trials are imposed to lead us toward spiritual life. Our response in the face of adversity is our choice. God grants us the free will to turn away from Him in sin or toward Him in prayer. God permits these struggles to assess our character and develop our virtue (CCC 2847). Saint Cyprian of Carthage notes: “God gives the devil power against us in two modes: either for punishment when we sin, or for glory when we are tested.”
When we turn lovingly toward God, He provides us with sufficient grace to endure our suffering. Saint Paul explains: “No trial has come to you but what is human. God is faithful and will not let you be tried beyond your strength; but with the trial he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Saint James encourages us to “Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-3). Saint Paul elaborates that “affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4).
Pope Francis reminds us: “When we are tempted, only the Word of God, the Word of Jesus saves us. Christ is always willing to teach us how to escape from temptation. Jesus is great because he not only brings us out of temptation, but also gives us more confidence.”
In the spirit of Lent, we will explore the topic of temptation this month, beginning with the temptation of Jesus in the desert. Our “Weekly Challenge” section will also discuss how faithful response to these trials elevates our disposition and our relationship with God. Please share your thoughts with the group on overcoming or succumbing to temptation by posting a comment below.
