Friday, March 7, 2008

Screwtape Letter 8

From what I understood from this letter (correct me if i am wrong), Wormwood's uncle is talking about how crucial human temptations and weaknesses are for the enemy. All it takes is for the patient to reach one of those peaks and get a little taste, the enemy withdraws, and allows for the patient to stand on his own meaning that he will choose to remain in that state. He also talks about how God created creatures who are replicas of himself, unlike the enemy likes distinct creatures. I guess that in certain situations, as humans, when encountered with a devastating situation where we weaken can be damaging. We become hungry and temptations will become our first escape. That is all that the enemy is waiting for, for the patient to have that little taste. He also talked about how even after the patient doesn't want to be on their side anymore, as long as he is there is all that matters. That reminded me of many people who attempt to stop certain destructive habits, to stop sinning, etc. find themselves in a loop hole because wanting to stop isn't enough. It takes lots of courage and will, which many lack.

1 comment:

Jacki said...

I agree with the affects of temptations on people especially during hard times. It is very easy to give in to temptation opposed to working through problems with the help of God. The fact that God steps aside and allows for us to make our own decisions is often a struggle, but if people understand that God is really always there if you just ask for help they can work their struggles a lot easier.