10 Rules to Resist Temptation
Sept 18, 2004
Cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi, 66, [then] the archbishop of Genoa has published 10 rules on how to resist Satan's temptations. Cardinal Tettamanzi dedicated his lenten letter to combating the fascination of a devil who is charming, shrewd and very real.
(5 March 2001) Those who follow his 10-step programme are promised the ability to rebuff offers of forbidden fruit, unlike Adam and Eve.
First rule: "Do not forget that the devil exists."
Rule two: "Do not forget that the devil is a tempter."
Rule three: "Do not forget that the devil is very intelligent and astute."
Cardinal Tettamanzi urges permanent watchfulness. "Be vigilant in the eyes and the heart. Be strong in spirit and virtue."
Another five rules recommend tireless prayer, adoring God, listening to His words, remembering Christ's victory over temptation and man's sharing in that victory.
Obeying the tenth rule, though, should seal the devil's defeat: "Be humble and love mortification."
10 Rules to Resist Temptation