We must begin to listen more to our heart. Let's tear down those doubts and move forward on this path of light.
“if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment.” 2 Peter 2:9
Do they represent God's values? Many times, and with the sole motive of leading us away from the path that Christ proposes, temptations are "disguised" as ways to make God proud of us. It is clear that such an act will not last long, since in such cases we must ask ourselves if what we have in front of our noses represents God's values, pure values of noble sentiments such as love, understanding, and forgiveness.
“The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.” Matthew 13:22
Are they urging us to stay on His path? Let us remember that temptations work with the confusion of our mind, which is why we must listen to our heart and verify, at times, that we continue to walk the path that God proposes and from which temptations are trying to keep us away.
“ For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are yet he did not sin.” Hebrews 4:15
Do they contribute to elevating our spirit? A friend of mine used to say: Everything that does not add up, deducts. And although I do not believe that his maxim is entirely true, in this case, it applies. As long as we walk God's path, only what comes from Him is what will elevate our spirit, since everything that is given to us from elsewhere and that, in no way, makes our heart uncomfortable, must be examined with care and with Divine counsel to guide our decisions.
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” Galatians 6:1
Do we make The Lord proud of us? By now we know what things make The Lord proud of His sons and daughters. Wanting to surprise Our Father speaks of trying to catch Him off guard, which any fervent believer knows is impossible because He knows what will happen. So, it is a much better motive for pride to fulfill His will as He expects, therein lies Christ's true motive for pride.
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
What benefits can they bring to those around us? For let us remember that no achievement is complete if there is no love: if there is no neighbor to love and no other with whom to share them. Let us remember Christ when He speaks of spreading His web of love to cover all the corners of the world: that is love.