Facing Temptations

1 Samuel 19: 1 Chronicles 7; Psalms 59, Matthew 4 

“The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.’ Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

Matthew 4:3, 4

In responding to Satan’s temptations, Jesus responded with Scriptures related to the nature of God. Jesus knew his Father. Knowing God, who he is, and what he does, is an inoculation against the substitute offerings of the world, the flesh, and the devil. Jesus knew his Father’s voice through the Holy Spirit, and that communication with his Father fed him at a deeper level than any bread this world could offer. Jesus knew that his Father’s protection was not something to misuse for personal gain through any spectacle at the temple. He also knew that worshipping the Father, rather than receiving worship himself, was the key to freedom from the seduction of money and power.

Do we know the Father’s provision, protection, and power so we are not tempted by the enemy’s substitutes?

Lord God, you of my source of life. You fill me up, love me, protect me, and empower me so I can live for your glory. Thank you.