It is not a sin to be tempted. It is a sin only when we give way to temptation. When we are tempted most, that is when God is nearest to us, because He wants to be near us, His children, to help us when we call upon Him.

St. Catherine of Sienna was one day tempted very much with bad thoughts, but by God’s holy grace she rejected them all.

Not long afterwards, Our Blessed Lord appeared to her. As soon as she saw Him, she cried out:

“O my God, where were You when the devil was tempting me with those wicked thoughts?”

“My daughter,” He replied, “I was in your heart all the time.”

“O my dearest Lord,” said the Saint, “is it possible that You could have been there in the midst of such frightful temptations?”

“Yes, my child. I was there watching over you when you were fighting against them, and I was helping you to overcome them. And when I saw how much you rejected them and hated them for love of Me, My heart was filled with joy.”

These encouraging words of our dear Lord were treasured by the saint. And when, on future occasions, she had to undergo temptations, St. Catherine knew that Jesus was in her heart, watching her and helping her.

So, in all your dangers, keep in mind that Jesus is near you and watching over you. Do not be afraid, and be sure to ask Him right away to help you, for we can do no good thing without Him and He wants to help us.