Fighting Temptations

"Every conquering temptation represents a new fund of moral energy. Every trial endured and weathered in the right spirit makes a soul nobler and stronger than it was before." 

- William Butler Yeats

"Happy is the man who doesn't give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life that God has promised those who love him."  

-James 1:12

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Temptation.  This thing has caused lives, sadness and pain for most people. In the realm of relationship, temptation can be a futile factor to end what has been started. Moreover, it can destroy years of fruitful togetherness and can shun faithfulness and loyalty. 

Being in a long-term relationship, I felt that fighting temptation is one source of strength for partners. An epitome of a good relationship, I should say, is capable of controlling one's self for the benefit of the partnership. Discipline plays a major role and it can never be underestimated.  For it is in discipline where you cultivate your self-control. It is in awareness of your values where you find encouragement and motivation to fulfill what's paramount. 

Pray. A prayerful person knows when to ask for guidance and strength. Your connection to Him merits a strong line of defense against temptations. When you think you are about to indulge into something that can be detrimental to your relationship, pray. He is more powerful than you. 

Think of Pain. Can you see your partner crying because of what you just did? Can your conscience take up the hurt you have instigated just by giving in to temptation? If your answer is no, then that's enough motivation to halt and move forward to better your relationship. If your answer is yes, then you better reflect and think if you are still inside that relationship. 

Create a Good Set of Friends. Surround yourself with people exuding with positive outlook. These are friends that are loyal to their families and partners. Friends that have maturity you can relate with. Friends who knows clean fun. Relate to people and their experiences - noting the consequences of their actions.  You'll learn a lot, and you avoid the risk of experiencing the bad things they've gone through. 

Avoid Easy Hook-up Triggers. If you are in a relationship, and you still can't let go of those "extra" social networking sites, then probably you are still not ready for a long and steady relationship. Temptation to carnal activities is what it fuels these sites. That's a given. If you can't let go, then you ought to know that your relationship is doomed. 

Conscious Effort. One should understand that being in a relationship means knowing that you have responsibilities to your partner. What propels a long lasting relationship is pure love and pure work. Do it for your partner! Cook for him, fetch him in the office, call him, text him, etc. If you are fixated to have long and lasting relationship, then act. It is in this action directed to your partner where you avoid the pitfalls of temptations. 

Communicate. This is a no-brainer. Talk to your partner. Be genuinely interested to his stories. Know his needs, confirm your assumptions, ask questions, but more importantly, listen. 

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Yours truly have been through tough relationship experiences in the past and have been faced with temptations. You know, it's part of growing up and being a mature partner. By the moment I decided and felt I'm ready for a long-term, I know that it's a requisite to fight temptations around. 

Bottomline is, when you start going straight, meaning serious, you show more pure love to that person. It's also certain that it gets reciprocated not only by your partner, but also by Him.