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Welcome to Day 7 of our journey through “Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: An Inspirational Study on Luke” by Dustin Royer. Today, we delve into Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, a significant event that showcases His strength, faithfulness, and reliance on God’s Word.
In Luke 4:1-13, we read that after His baptism, Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, is led into the wilderness, where He fasts for forty days and is tempted by the devil. This period of testing reveals not only the reality of spiritual warfare but also Jesus’ unwavering commitment to His Father’s will.
The Three Temptations
- Temptation to Turn Stones into Bread: The devil says to Jesus, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” (Luke 4:3 NIV) Jesus responds, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” (Luke 4:4 NIV)Reflection: This temptation targets Jesus’ physical hunger, challenging Him to use His divine power for personal gain. Jesus resists by quoting Deuteronomy 8:3, emphasizing spiritual sustenance over physical needs.
- Temptation of Earthly Authority and Glory: The devil shows Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and says, “I will give you all their authority and splendor… if you worship me, it will all be yours.” (Luke 4:6-7 NIV) Jesus answers, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” (Luke 4:8 NIV)Reflection: This temptation offers Jesus power and glory in exchange for worshipping Satan. Jesus responds with Deuteronomy 6:13, affirming His exclusive devotion to God and rejecting any compromise with evil.
- Temptation to Test God’s Protection: The devil takes Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple and says, “If you are the Son of God… throw yourself down from here… He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully.” (Luke 4:9-11 NIV) Jesus replies, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (Luke 4:12 NIV)Reflection: This temptation challenges Jesus to prove His divine sonship by forcing God’s hand. Jesus counters with Deuteronomy 6:16, demonstrating trust in God without needing to test His faithfulness.
Key Lessons
- Reliance on Scripture: Jesus counters each temptation with Scripture, highlighting the power of God’s Word in overcoming trials.
- Spiritual Focus: Jesus prioritizes spiritual truths over physical desires and earthly gains.
- Unwavering Faithfulness: Jesus’ responses reflect His absolute trust and obedience to God, setting a model for resisting temptation.
Reflection:
- Read Luke 4:1-13: Reflect on how Jesus responds to each temptation.
- Consider: What temptations do you face in your life? How can you use Scripture to strengthen your resolve and stay faithful to God?
Prayer/Action:
Pray for the strength to resist temptation and the wisdom to rely on God’s Word in times of trial. Identify specific Scriptures that address your areas of weakness and commit them to memory. Use these verses as tools to combat temptations and stay grounded in your faith.
Tomorrow, we will explore the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and His proclamation of the Good News. Let’s continue walking together, inspired by Jesus’ example of faithfulness and spiritual strength.
Stay blessed, and see you tomorrow!
Dustin Royer