Facing our Demons

"At once the Spirit drove him out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan." (Mark 1:12)

Even Jesus was tempted by the devil, so it should be no surprise that we are also. Lent, especially, is a time for us to face our demons, the things that in particular tempt us and try to lead us astray from a good life. Many people give up their own particular vice during Lent, whether that be smoking or drinking or caffeine or any number of less than desirable behaviors.

But there are many demons that are of a mental nature only - the temptations of pride, lust, and envy, to name just a few. It can be very difficult to control our thoughts when they start to wander into these areas. It is hard to recognize these for what they are, the devil trying to tempt us. Lent is a good time for us to face these demons head-on, to look the devil in the eye and say "Away with you, Satan!" When we notice ourselves thinking in these ways, we can force ourselves to think about something else. We can even pray! God will always come to our aid if we ask.