The temptations that single men and women face are, for the most part, similar to those encountered by married men and women. Everyone, for example, is tempted by selfishness, impatience, resentment and anger.
Yet singles are more susceptible to some temptations. Self pity, for example, is a temptation that single men and women need to watch closely. Because they can more easily feel lonely, vulnerable and unprotected, single men and women can feel sorry for themselves because of their state of life. They may become depressed. Divorced men and women can also fall prey to self-pity because of the seemingly hopeless circumstances of their lives. Widows and widowers are frequently gripped with self-pity.
Then too single men and women, especially those separated and divorced, often need to be healed of past hurts, resentments, bitterness, and anger. The unhappy memories of a previous marriage can still be painful. Nonetheless, even if past mistakes were made and sins were committed, the Lord
Jesus wants to pour out his mercy and compassion. He does not want them to live in frustration and anger. He wants everyone to know his love and peace.
For singles, sexual temptations can be a vexing and discouraging problem. Single men and women need to shepherd their emotions, fantasies and imagination. Like all adults, they must stay clear of sexually explicit literature and entertainment. Even though single men and women can be sexually tempted, the Lord does not wish their sexual abstinence to be an oppressive burden. His desire is that they be mature, free sons and daughters of the Father.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation can help single men and women combat sin and live joyful lives in the presence of the Lord. They need not be overwhelmed by loneliness nor engulfed with hopelessness. God treasures single men and women and has a plan for their lives.