Sin is a great evil. Even in this life it is often its own punishment. In the life to come, the consequences of it must be more terrible still. It is also hateful in itself, and we naturally condemn it. How hateful it is to God the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ reveals. Even the endurance of such a death was not too much to undergo in order, by means of it, to put away sin. By it the Holy Ghost also is grieved, and driven to depart from those He loves.
But how may I hope to overcome temptation?
1. In the first place I shall need to be in earnest, to watch over myself, and to pray always for grace and help, that I may fight against it with all my might. In Holy Communion I must seek a closer union with Jesus Christ our Lord, who strengthens us.
2. The thought of my Savior on the cross should also help me. Or if I am tempted to be proud, the thought of His lowliness should help me. If I am tempted to ill-temper, the thought of His patience and readiness to forgive should help me; or if to any form of sinful self-indulgence, the thought of His sacrifice of Himself for my sake should restrain me.
3. If I have on hand some useful work, or some pleasant occupation which interests me, I shall perhaps thus avoid giving occasion to temptation.
4. Cheerfulness will be of great advantage, and healthful recreations are of value also. When we are not cheerful we are thereby exposed to many temptations. When St. Paul enumerates the fruits of the Spirit he places love first, and joy next, because, if love is the law of the Christian life, joy is one of its chief safeguards. Boisterous mirth often produces a reaction of weariness or depression; but he who endeavors to be always cheerful enjoys a brightness of spirit which is in itself joyous, and often a protection also. The joy of the Lord is the strength of His people.
Prayer
O Holy Spirit, the Author in us of all love and all joy, sanctify me also, I beseech Thee, and grant me grace to overcome all sin. Amen.
From Lent for Busy People © 2017 Fr. Charles H. Nalls
The Cathedral Close 
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