Let us remind ourselves again, that to be attacked by evil passion and thought, is a very different case from the being overcome by them. As long as we consent not, but reject the sin or evil suggested, not only with our reason but our will, there is no separation between our God and Father, and us. Some are much molested by evil thoughts, by which others, naturally, perhaps, of a more placid and composed spirit and less excitable temperament, are less troubled. Pride, vain-glory, hastiness of temper and speech, self-indulgence, sloth and other evils beset some more than other Christians. Yet the former may not at all consent to such temptations. They flee by prayer and faith, to Him who has vouchsafed to become their loving Heavenly Father; and to that Saviour with whom they have a blessed union, and probably advance more in spiritual life than those who are less tempted and tried. True holiness, after the image of Christ, is only attained through efforts and many struggles. Let none, then, be discouraged because of the violence or frequency of temptation; our Heavenly Father observes all we pass through, and never withdraws His love for us while we do not withdraw our hearts from Him.
- text taken from Daily Bread - Bring a Few Morning Meditations for the Use of Catholic Christians by Father Richard Waldo Sibthorp