The Devil's Got Nothing On Agency: Facing Temptation in the Field

Hey Rogue Disciples! It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of a mission – the relentless schedule, the intense preparation, the constant striving to be Christlike. But sometimes, that striving can feel… fraught. Like you’re wrestling with something deeper than just a lack of confidence or a tough investigator. Something that whispers, “Just this once… it’ll be okay…”

I remember one transfer in the Congo, feeling completely overwhelmed. My companion and I were having a rough time, and I started blaming external factors – the language barrier, the cultural differences, even the weather! It felt… easier than facing my own internal struggles. Then I remembered something Elder Holland said about blame. It’s a dangerous thing.

That’s what got me thinking about the latest episode of The Book of Mormon Digging Deeper, #36, “The Devil Made Me Do It.” It’s a powerful reminder – a funny, yet profound, look at the nature of temptation and accountability. The comedian Flip Wilson used that phrase as a humorous excuse, but Mark Swinf unpacks a much deeper truth: while Satan is real and actively works against us, we are ultimately responsible for our choices.

Think about it. That Grand Council in Heaven? It wasn't just about establishing the conditions of mortality. It was about agency. Heavenly Father gave us the capacity to choose, to learn, to progress. And that means accepting the consequences of those choices. Blaming the Devil is a shortcut, a way to avoid the hard work of self-reflection and repentance.

Beyond the Excuse: Taking Ownership

As returned missionaries, we’ve seen firsthand how easily we can slip into victimhood. It’s tempting to point fingers – at the system, at our companions, at the investigators who weren’t receptive. But true discipleship demands more. It demands that we own our actions, our attitudes, and our responses.

So, how do we insulate ourselves from that influence? Here’s a few things I’ve learned:

• Daily Repentance: It’s not just for major sins. It’s a daily commitment to aligning our actions with God’s will.
• Scripture Study & Prayer: The more deeply we immerse ourselves in the word of God, the stronger our spiritual defenses become.
• Seek Counsel: Don’t be afraid to reach out to your district leader, your mission president, or trusted mentors when you’re struggling.
• Recognize the Pattern: Satan doesn’t always come with horns and a pitchfork. He often whispers subtle lies, preying on our insecurities and vulnerabilities. Learn to recognize those patterns.

This isn't about beating yourself up when you stumble. It's about recognizing the source of the struggle and choosing, again and again, to turn towards the light. The Lord knows we’ll make mistakes. He expects it. But He also expects us to take responsibility and strive to do better.

A Challenge for You

This week, I challenge you to examine your own life. Where are you tempted to deflect responsibility? What areas need more attention? Don't let the Devil claim victory. Embrace your agency. Own your choices. And remember, you’re not alone in this fight.

And speaking of support, don't forget to join us for the weekly Disciple Challenge! It's a great way to connect with other Latter-day Saints striving to deepen their faith and understanding. We’ve got some great discussions planned. You can find more info on that at [link to LivingBook event].

Until next time, keep striving, keep learning, and keep being a Rogue Disciple!