Matthew 4:1–25 (Continued)

March 02, 2012

More observations:

• If Jesus used Scripture to combat the devil's lies, how much more should we use the same method. This means we have to KNOW scripture in order to be able to use it.
• Jesus was not being disciplined while He was in the desert. He was specifically led there by the Spirit. It is a mistake to think all trials we face are for discipline purposes. We need to be able to discern what God is desiring to teach us.  
• Jesus was being prepared. "Sometimes God has to work in us in order to work through us." (A quote from one of our pastors.) Before Jesus' ministry began He went through the desert and was victorious over temptation.
• Jesus had everything He needed to defeat the devil's temptation. Through Jesus we have everything we need to be able to stand up and stand firm, no matter what attack Satan may try to use against us. We are not powerless. There is no such thing as "the devil made me do it." We are not victims.
• Every one of Jesus' response affirmed submission to God.  

Our biggest enemy is SELF. We must understand and submit to the

God

↓

Man

principle. In ALL things, at ALL times, in ALL places—whether in a desert experience or on the mountaintop. Because of SELF, sometimes the mountain tops are more dangerous than the deserts.

Jesus told the devil to go away—and he left. Immediately the angels came and took care of Jesus. When we deny SELF and stand firm upon God's Word, we can be free of the effects of Satan's attacks and we can rest, literally rest, in God's protection and promises.  


Next Entry: Matthew 4:1–25 (Continued)