The Temptation of Jesus

The story of the Temptation of Jesus is found in Luke 4:1-13.  It is the story of Jesus being tempted for forty days by the devil. Jesus was told to turn a stone into bread, offered the whole domain if He would worship the devil, and challenged to jump off the Temple.  In all three situations Jesus answered, “It’s been said, Don’t test the Lord your God.”

In this week’s Scripture, we hear how Jesus was tempted by the devil. Scripture tells us that Jesus was not alone.  Jesus was “full of the Holy Spirit” and that he was “led by the Spirit into the wilderness.”  The devil tried to persuade Jesus to worship him.  I wonder as I think about these words – what temptations are you faced with?  What are you doing that you know you should not?

Fasting is a Lenten discipline.  People think that fasting is giving up food and/or drink, but fasting is far greater than food or drink. I challenge you to decide what tempts you and then know what you need to “give up”. What has power over you? What keeps you from spending time with Jesus?  It might be TV, video games, Facebook, and the list could go on and on. Take time this week to “fast” from something that occupies your time.  What do you need to give up? See if by giving something up you have more time to read the scriptures, to pray, or help someone in need!

Prayer: Loving God, you are always with us, guiding us and loving us. Sometimes we get so focused on our lives that we forget to spend time with you.  Help us to learn how to trust you, love you, and share your love with others.  Amen.

Scripture: Luke 4:1-13 (Read all 13 verses to understand the Temptation of Jesus)

Author: Tommy Herndon