The First Fight

“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13 (KJV)

Athanasius says the devil hated to see “such a resolution in a youth”, and did everything he could to turn Antony back.

First came thoughts that sound very familiar. Antony found himself remembering all the money he had given away, worrying about his sister, missing his relatives, wanting to be admired, wanting nice food and an easy life. Then came the thought that following God was just too hard, and would take too long. Athanasius says the enemy “raised in his mind a great dust of debate”.

When that didn’t work, the attack changed. Athanasius says the devil turned to what he calls the first trap for young people: lust and sexual temptation. Antony was troubled by impure thoughts by day and night.

How did Antony fight back? With prayer, with faith, and by filling his mind with Christ. When a tempting thought came, he answered it with prayer. He thought about what really mattered, and about God’s judgment, and the temptation lost its power.

Notice two things. First, Antony was tempted, and that was not a sign he was a bad Christian. Even Jesus was tempted. Temptation is not the same as sin. Second, Athanasius is very clear about who won the victory:

“This was Antony’s first struggle against the devil, or rather this victory was the Saviour’s work in Antony.”

That is so important. Antony didn’t win because he was strong. Jesus won the victory in him.

If you struggle with temptation, including sexual temptation, you are not alone and you are not a failure. Bring it to Jesus, again and again. Fill your mind with good things. And if a struggle feels out of control, talk to a trusted adult. God always provides a way out.

One thing to do this week: think about the kinds of thoughts that pull you away from God, like Antony’s list. When one comes this week, answer it straight away with a short prayer, for example: “Jesus, you are better than this. Help me.”