Whenever we strive for self-improvement, particularly in resisting self-sabotaging indulgences, we may perceive this battle as a personal affair with minimal consequences. This mindset can lead us to underestimate the stakes involved. When the fight against a temptation becomes particularly challenging, we might convince ourselves that there’s no point in resisting. However, this notion can be dangerously deceptive.

The importance of boundaries

While each of us must determine our sustainable boundaries, it remains essential to set and respect those boundaries. Refusing to fight cravings altogether allows those cravings to torment us more intensely and push us beyond previously unthinkable limits.

For instance, consider someone struggling with a drinking problem. They might rationalize that drinking a little won’t harm them, so long as they don’t get drunk. Yet, this complacency enables the urge to drink to grow stronger. Over time, the craving can spiral out of control, leading to self-destructive behaviors and harm to others.

The Bhagavad-Gita (3.36) warns against such indulgence, describing it as an insatiable beast that consumes everything in its path. This craving, driven by the force of illusion—Maya—violates even the sacred in its feverish quest for gratification. Without setting inviolable boundaries, we risk being dragged down by this formidable force.

The role of divine assistance

Fortunately, not all forces in this inner battle are against us. Alongside the power of Maya exists the higher force of God, which works to uplift and support us. When we strive to purify ourselves through devotion and focus on Krishna, we invite divine grace into our lives. This grace strengthens us, enabling us to reach levels of self-control and growth that once seemed unattainable.

The Bhagavad-Gita (12.6) poetically assures us that Krishna will swiftly lift his devotees from the ocean of temptation and tribulation. This divine assistance transforms our fight into something far greater than ourselves.

The stakes and the promise

Understanding the stakes in the war against temptation reveals that the consequences of failure extend beyond our individual struggles to affect those around us. Conversely, choosing to fight with determination and devotion allows us to access a transformative grace that propels us to heights we never imagined.

By resisting Maya, we avoid becoming worse than our darkest fears. By remaining devoted to Krishna, we rise above our best expectations, enriched and empowered by divine grace.

Summary:

  • The inner war against temptation carries far greater stakes than we often realize, affecting not just ourselves but those around us.
  • Failing to fight allows the insatiable force of illusion—Maya—to drag us into behaviors we’d normally shudder to consider.
  • Fighting with devotion to Krishna invites divine grace, which empowers us to transcend limitations and achieve remarkable growth.

Think it over:

  • Can you recall an incident where the stakes in your inner war against temptation turned out to be far greater than you initially thought?
  • Reflect on a time when giving in to temptation felt like losing control, with something else dragging you far lower than you expected.
  • Have you experienced a moment when prayerful determination enabled you to achieve something extraordinary? How did this reflect divine grace at work in your life?

***

03.36 Arjuna said: O descendant of Vṛṣṇi, by what is one impelled to sinful acts, even unwillingly, as if engaged by force?