Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. Luke 4:1-2a
Jesus, who had just been revealed by God to be His Son at His baptism, was immediately led into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. I find it interesting that before He officially begins His urgent ministry, Jesus goes through these trials with Satan testing Him from every angle trying to find a weakness. Faithfully, Jesus overcomes every temptation and defeats Satan by the power of God’s word then goes out with bold confidence to proclaim the gospel for the purpose for which He was sent. However, Satan is not defeated so easily as he leaves Jesus in this moment and waits for another opportune time.
For nine years I have been in my own wilderness. In a time where I feel as though I should have been earnestly preaching the gospel, I have been physically weak through chronic illnesses and Satan has definitely taken advantage through his temptations. From depression, thoughts of suicide, anger, and just outright wanting to quit on God, I have had to fight Satan tooth and nail with the power of God’s word. And now, as I am experiencing improvement in my physical circumstances, I know prevailing in such trials has made me more apt and ready to preach the gospel with bold confidence. This is my purpose for which I follow in the footsteps of Jesus, and even though I know Satan will be lurking to find another opportune time, I look forward to whatever opportunities I am given to share the gospel with whatever measure of health I am granted.
May Jesus inspire us all to overcome the temptations of Satan in our own wilderness by the power God has granted us through His word thus provoking bold confidence in sharing His gospel.
Prayer:
Wise God Almighty, Your words give me power to overcome Satan’s temptations just as Jesus did. With the knowledge that You are there to strengthen and guide me in the wilderness, I gain confidence in prevailing through every trial hence allowing me to boldly proclaim Your gospel to others as I follow in the footsteps of my blessed Savior, Jesus. Amen.
Truth in love,
Heather
Truth in Love 