The temptations get close to men in the same way the eyelashes get close to each other. And God ordained this thing wisely so that we may get spiritual benefit. Meaning to knock insistently at the door of God`s mercy when you are surrounded by temptations and because of the fear of sorrows in your mind should be engrained the remembrance of God, so that by praying fervently to get close to Him. And in this way your heart will be sanctified, by calling the name of God without cease. If you do this, when you pray to Him, He will listen to you.
Excerpt from About trials, sorrows, pains and patience– Saint Isaac the Syrian the God inspired, Evanghelismos, 2012.