Some men abstain from the passions because of human fear, others because of self-esteem, and others through self-control. Some, however, are delivered from the passions by divine providence. (Maximos the Confessor)

If Maximos had begun his second sentence with "All" rather than "Some" I might simply agree. 

The most likely Greek verb for abstain is some form of apecho.  This is an innately paradoxical term.  Depending on context it can mean either to hold back or to have in full.

We can and should abstain from those feelings, motivations, and intentions than separate us from God and neighbor.  But if we try to depend on our own strength and will, such resistance will only inflame the epipothe'sis.

All are delivered from the passions by the divine providence.  Only by giving ourselves wholly to God and neighbor are we freed.

It is certainly an issue of apecho, but the context calls for giving rather than resisting.