Beware Your Weakness

There are people who are overly confident in themselves and their abilities—especially when it comes to sin. This overconfidence can be dangerous. For example, some individuals struggling with alcoholism keep bottles of alcohol at home. When advised to stop drinking, they respond, “Father, I can stop anytime. I’ve stopped before, and if I want to, I can stop today.”

This is the confidence they cling to. Others are addicted to computer games, movies, or the internet. When warned that this may harm their minds and lives, they respond with dismissiveness: “No, Father, my mind is clear. I’m fine.”

Some people engage in inappropriate relationships or friendships—even while married—and justify it by saying, “Father, this is just a natural friendship. Nothing wrong here.” But we must remember our human weakness. We are fragile and easily tempted. We should never play around with sin. If something even appears to lead you toward sin, be cautious and vigilant.

Sirach 12:13 says:
“Who pities a snake charmer when he is bitten, or all those who go near wild animals?”

Some people, out of overconfidence, approach wild or dangerous animals just to take a photo. If they get harmed, who can pity them? It was their own choice to ignore the risk.

Imagine a snake charmer who constantly plays with snakes. If he gets bitten, no one would be surprised or pity him—he was knowingly playing with danger.

Likewise, if you play with sin, you will be bitten. And when that happens, there may be no one to help you. That’s why we must acknowledge our weakness. If something feels like it could lead you into sin, your conscience—or the Holy Spirit—will often whisper, “Be careful.” Listen to that voice. Step away from temptation.

Flee from sin as you would flee from a snake. This is what Scripture tells us—don’t entertain evil. Don’t think you can control sin or manage it on your own. Overconfidence can lead to a fall.

If you allow yourself to be “bitten” by the sin you’re entertaining, you may find yourself alone and suffering the consequences. Let us ask God for forgiveness for the times we’ve flirted with sin, thinking we were in control.

Remember: no one is truly in control of themselves unless God is in control of them.