I heard a spiritual director (not mine) say recently that the devil cannot read your thoughts; he is only a very good observer of behavior and quickly hones in on your weakness. It is there he attacks. Your thoughts, though, are inaccessible to him unless you reveal them to him.
What a wonderful thing to remember throughout our lives, especially in times of temptation. Satan is incapable of knowing what we are thinking. He sees only what we do and is quick to find our weak spot. This means that when tempted, we need only think the name of Jesus, over and over again. Jesus. Then drop to our knees and ask his help.
Have you ever tried that? Literally dropping to your knees thinking only the name of Jesus when you are tempted in whatever manner. I’ll bet that if you do, the temptation subsides. At least for a while.
If you want a little extra strength, add the name of the Blessed Virgin.
If you really want the full armor, walk into the confessional and make your confession. He can’t stand that and will flee…. at least for a while if not for a long while.
Satan is very weak. Sneaky, but weak. We, with the help of Jesus, are very strong even when we feel weak.
Try it… you will see.
