How many times have you told yourself, “I don’t need that doughnut/cigarette/new pair of shoes” thinking that you have gotten your urge under control, only to be lured back by the object of temptation? If you think of yourself as one with restraint, but often give in to temptation, you’re not the only one. The power to resist temptation has been extolled by philosophers, psychologists, teachers, coaches and mothers. Anyone with advice on how you should live your life has spoken to you of its benefits. It is the path to the good life, professional and personal satisfaction, social adjustment and success, performance under pressure, and the best way for any child to avoid a penetrating stare.
The devil outside may be easier to resist than the devil within which makes temptation a natural state of existence for us. Our natural urges are all set to be tempted and lead us astray. We give in to temptation when we rationalise and convince ourselves we are doing the right thing. The body craves pleasure and the mind which knows better, tries to resist, but then gives way. Curiosity is a huge factor in temptation.
The mind starts wondering about denial, wishing to discover what would happen if we did what we are warned not to do. When a man hears colleagues rib each other about extra-marital affairs, he starts wondering if he is missing out on an experience he may regret not having had? His curiosity and competitive spirit are aroused and he becomes a vulnerable candidate for infidelity. The mind plays tricks on us and we convince ourselves of the reasons we do certain things.
Notice how the day you start a diet also seems to be the day you crave all kinds of unhealthy food! You think of reasons to put off the dieting, or convince yourself that a little indiscipline will not cause much harm! The mind has its reasons that decide whether you give in or not. Temptation isn’t a sin, though it may pave the path toward sin. To be tempted is normal. Whether you give in to that temptation or not is what determines your character. If ever a married person were to tell me he or she has never felt attracted to a member of the opposite sex; if someone said they have not been ever tempted to cheat or lie, I would find that difficult to believe! We all have our weak moments, and to be tempted is not wrong. You do not know you are honest unless tempted by dishonesty! How do you know you are faithful unless you are tempted to be unfaithful? The strength of your resistance is a measure of your faith, fidelity, or your honesty.
People are not good at anticipating the power of their urges. Those most confident about their self-control are the most likely to give in to temptation. Temptations are always there. Only the forms change. But for those who learn the subtle art of self-discipline and restraint, nothing can prevent them from attaining their goals.