“Temptations shouldn’t frighten you; by means of them God wants to prove and fortify your soul and, at the same time, give you the strength to overcome them. Hitherto your life has been that of a child, but now our Lord wants to treat you like an adult. Now, the trials of grown-ups are a great deal superior to those of children and this explains why you are so disturbed by them at first. But the life of your soul will very quickly calm down again; it will not delay. So have a little patience and all will be for the best.
So drop these useless apprehensions. Remember that it isn’t the Evil One’s suggestions that make up the fault but rather the consent we give to these suggestions. Only a will that is free is capable of good and evil. But when our wills groan beneath the trials imposed by the Tempter, and do not desire to do what he suggests, then not only is this not a fault but it is, rather, a virtue.
Guard against falling into agitation as you struggle against temptations, because that only strengthens them. We have to deal with them with disdain and not concern ourselves about them. Turn your thoughts to Jesus crucified, His body laid in your arms, and say: ‘This is my hope, the source of my joy! I cleave to You with all my soul and will not let You go until You have made me secure.’”
~St. Pio of Pietrelcina (a.k.a. St. Padre Pio)
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