Our temptations, through the artifices of our Satanic enemy, are often adapted to bring out feelings and desires, which are wrong in their very nature, and, therefore, ought not to have acceptance with us at all. Our Saviour was tempted, by having the kingdoms and wealth of the world put before him, with the view of his desiring them, for his personal enjoyment and aggrandisement. The temptation went no further than the intellectual perception or apprehension. It had no effect on his 'desires or will. It secured no pleased or consentient action on his part, but was instantly rejected. The same may be said of the temptation to throw himself down from the Temple. With respect to the intellect, it was doubtless understood; or otherwise, it could hardly be regarded as a temptation. But it found no entrance into the heart. With regard to ourselves, this may be called an innocent stage of temptations. They must exist intellectually, and be perceived and thought of, or there could hardly be such a thing as temptation. But they may exist to this extent, and be perceived and felt by us, to exist, without sin. Neither the desires nor affections, nor. the conscience, or the will are asleep or insensible, but are awake and sensible of the danger, and at once repel the assault. Keeping this in mind, Resist the Devil and he will fly from you.
- text taken from Daily Bread - Bring a Few Morning Meditations for the Use of Catholic Christians by Father Richard Waldo Sibthorp