Temptations

N.T.#496 "Temptations"

Feb. 27, 2025 

Luke 4-Part 4 

LET IT GLOW

We have learned about the two temptations of the devil for Jesus while fasting in the wilderness 40 days: turning stones into bread, a personal temptation (verse 3), which would have been acting independently of the Father for His physical needs, and a power temptation(verses 5-8) as the devil offered kingdoms of the world if Jesus worshiped him. (Jesus already owned it all since He created it all.)

The third temptation was that of pride. Jesus was transported to the pinnacle of Herod's temple in Jerusalem. This would have been an extremely high elevation over looking the Kidron Valley. It would have been 150 feet above the Court of the Priests below. (Swindoll)

If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence.  (verse 9)

The devil even quoted Scripture, Psalm 91:11-12:

For it is written, He shall give His angels charge over Thee, to keep thee: And in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone. (verses 10-11)

The devil was implying that the Jews would see that miracle and accept Jesus as the Messiah. Again, Jesus answered the devil with Scripture:

Thou shalt not tempt the Lord Thy God.. (verse 12 and Deut. 6:16)

During the 40 days in the wilderness, the devil pressed every temptation to its fullest extent, yet Jesus did not fail to surrender to it. He is our Overcomer. Jesus suffered the affliction of temptation like no other human ever has or ever will. (Swindoll)

When the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from Jesus for a season. In Luke 22:3, he returns filling Judas. He failed, but Jesus won. 

LET IT GLOW

Do we know enough Scriptures to combat temptations when they come our way? 

When was the last time the devil dropped his baited hook and you bit, sinning? 

Mine was yesterday when I ate not 1, not 2, but 3 apple pie fritters. I was trying to loose some of this hibernation flab. Oh me. I failed again. Crazy thing is, I threw out the box they came in into the trash. And to beat all, those things were not fresh, but had been in the freezer too long. Ugh! I am bad.

James tells us to resist the devil and he will flee from us. (James 4:7)

So when we are weak, we can expect a major assault. Satan can twist words and situations around. When we resist, be ready for a different approach from the evil one. 

God has promised He would never leave us nor forsake us.

After yesterday's yielding, I ate cottage cheese and yogurt for breakfast. Thought I'd better get back on the narrow road.

LET IT GO

Help us say no to the things of this world and yes to Your Holy Spirit today.

May we let go of self and cling to Jesus.

Thank You Jesus for being faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.