In the Wilderness: Lessons from Jesus' Temptation

Hello to you, and happy Friday!

Today, we're studying one of the first stories of Jesus' ministry told in Matthew's gospel - His temptation. It is found in Matthew 4:1-11. Please take some time to read it even if you're familiar with the story, and here are some lessons I learned from it that I would like to share.

1. He was hungry, and the devil tempted him with food.

It is a common excuse to think that something is from or of God if it addresses our needs or gives us what we want. We may say or think things along the lines of, "how can it be wrong if this is the solution to my problems?" However, this is a clear example that that is not a sufficient test. That is not to say that a voice or instruction from God will always do the opposite, but be careful not to equate your will with God's.

2. He spoke facts.

In each temptation instance, Jesus responded with statements of facts from the word of God.

"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."

Not only was this a truth he used to counter the devil's lies/counterfeit offer, but it is also a statement that recognizes that ultimately, everything we need is fulfilled in God. He is our shepherd, we will not want. So trust in God, and wait on His answer, His solution, His way, not other shortcuts or temptations from the devil that could lead you down the wrong path.

This story shows how that the word of God truly is the sword of the spirit as Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:17 - an effective weapon in defensive and offensive tactics of spiritual warfare. To be able to wield this sword, we need to be well trained. So, It is important to study and meditate on the truths of God's word.

The devil as well quoted scripture to Jesus in the second temptation, saying

“If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written,

‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’ ”

Just because scripture is quoted doesn't automatically mean that a person/group or their message is from God. So, we must be discerning and rightly handle the Word. (2 Timothy 2:15)

3. "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me."

The devil promised the world to Jesus if he would worship him, likewise, the world promises so much e.g. happiness, satisfaction, peace, security, oh so conditionally. Today, that could look like, "you will be happy if get a romantic partner," or, "if you dedicate your entire self to your career you'll be accomplished," or more obviously malicious things

Be secure in your identity as a child of God knowing that all things belong to Him. He is able to supply all of our needs, and ultimately, in heaven, we will experience endless joy gladness, wholeness, everything this world could never provide.

Some extra notes from Enduring Word Bible Commentary:

• The Holy Spirit cannot tempt us (James 1:13), but the Holy Spirit may lead us to a place where we will be tempted. This is not to prove something to God (who knows all things), but to prove something to us and to the spiritual beings watching us.

• This wasn’t self-denial just for the sake of self-denial, or worse yet for the sake of building spiritual pride. This was a period of forced dependence upon God the Father. We remember: He learned obedience through the things which He suffered (Hebrews 5:8).

• "'Away with you, Satan! For it is written'": Jesus replied with Scripture again and commanded the devil to leave. In the same way, we can resist the devil and he will flee from us (James 4:7). It worked for Jesus ("Then the devil left Him") and it will work for us.

Peace and love of Christ be with you all!