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Articles
LESSONS FROM CHRIST’S TEMPTATIONS CAN PREPARE US WHEN WE ARE TEMPTED!
Temptation, in its various forms, is an ever-present reality in our lives, and it has the power to lead us astray if we’re not prepared and equipped to withstand its allure. Preparation is the key Luke 4:1-2 And Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. V 2 Forty days he was tempted by the devil, during which time he ate nothing; and when the days were complete, he was hungry. Lesson to learn by contemplating Christ’s example, we acknowledge the significance of spiritual readiness. Engaging in spiritual preparation allows us to strengthen our hearts, minds and spirits, equipping us to remain steadfast when confronted with temptation.
The first temptation is Satan’s assault on physical needs Luke 4:3-4 And the devil said unto him, if thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. V 4 And Jesus answered him, saying, it is written, that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. The second lesson to learn is this powerful response reveals His complete dependence on the Word of God as the true source of nourishment for the soul. Jesus shows us that sustenance of our spirits is far more vital than the fulfillment of our temporary physical needs. It is a lesson in prioritizing the eternal needs over the fleeting, the spiritual over the material.
The second temptation: Satan’s offer of power and authority. Luke 4: 5-8 And the devil, taking him into a high mountain, showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. V 6 And the devil said unto him, all this power will I give you, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it, V 7 If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine. And Jesus answered and said unto him, get thee behind me, Satan for it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Lesson to learn, understand that true authority and honor come from God alone. By rejecting Satan’s offer, Jesus teaches us the vital lesson of aligning our desires and ambitions with God’s will. When we submit ourselves to God’s authority and commit to serving him faithfully, we discover a deeper, more meaning path that leads to true fulfillment and eternal significance.
The third temptation: Satan’s challenge to test God’s protection Luke 4:9-12 And he brought him into Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, if thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence. V 10 For it is written he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee; V 11 And in their hands, they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone V 12 And Jesus answering said unto him, it is said Thou salt not tempt the Lord thy God. Lesson number four. Jesus’ response teaches us invaluable about faith, trust, and obedience to God’s promises. Let us learn from Jesus’ response and cultivate a deep faith that trusts God’s faithfulness even when circumstances seem uncertain.
Robby Cable
Providence Church of Christ
