Monday Devotional: February 28, 2022

Jesus’ Trials

Scripture: Luke 4:1-13

All people face temptations at one time or the other. We quite often have an opportunity to choose if we are going to do what God would have us do, or ignore His desires and do our own thing.

Jesus, when He was on this earth, was not exempt from facing similar trials and temptations. The most famous of Jesus’ trials is the one found in Luke 4, where the Devil tempted Jesus.

Although most of us will not rank the personal attention of Satan’s temptations, we can learn how to face our temptations by following Christ’s example. What gave Christ the victory then, will help us succeed today.

Notice that in all three trials (Luke 4:1-13) Jesus faced, He was victorious. We can win when we are tempted to sin. We do not have to succumb to the impulse to lie, cheat, deceive, commit adultery, or any other weakness our flesh desires. Also, notice that none of Jesus’ trials were won by smart answers, reasoning with the enemy, or compromising. They were won by simply quoting and abiding by biblical principles.

When Jesus was tempted to turn the stones into bread, He simply quoted Deuteronomy 8:3, “… make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceeded out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.” Satan attacked again and tried to tempt Jesus by offering power and the things of this earth. Christ’s defense was again Scripture: “…Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve …” (Deut. 10:20).

By the third temptation, Satan knew how Jesus would fend him off. Satan attempted to counter with Scripture. Satan’s misquoting and misusing of God’s Word (Psalm 91:11), did not hamper Jesus. Our Savior simply quoted part of Deuteronomy 6:16, “…Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.”

The key to facing temptation is not running from it, ignoring it, or giving in to it. It is determining if it is wrong, and if so, sticking to the guidelines given in the Bible. That is why it is important to read and study God’s Word daily.

You never know what trials and temptations you will face today. When you do face them, will you know what God’s Word says about the trial you are facing? Do you know Scripture well enough to make it your protection and guide through the pitfalls you will face?