Temptations as Gifts

This weekend we read the following in the White Book, pg. 69:

Therefore, each temptation, every time we want to give in to lust or any other negative emotion, is a gift toward recovery, healing, and freedom—another opportunity to change our attitude and find union with God.

This is very much in line with what we read in James 1:2-4:

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

These two readings are really helpful when it comes to recovery. There were times when I was wearied and depressed by the constant battle against temptations and obsessions. Even as the obsessions decreased, the temptations remained. I felt certain that I must be doing something wrong. These two readings remind me that I need to separate temptations from obsessions (or whatever my addiction uses in that moment). Feeding the obsession is a capitulation - and it makes me weaker, even if it feels good in the moment. A temptation is an opportunity to give in, but it is not acting out. It is an opportunity to grow weaker or to grow stronger. Viewing temptations this way helps me understand why they are a gift. They are training exercises I can use to get stronger.