An army marches on its stomach! Napoleon Bonaparte is credited with this insight. He knew a little about warfare.
Why then is Jesus fasting 40 days and nights before one of the colossal confrontations of all time? Maybe because Jesus’ battle will not be with flesh and blood, but a spiritual conflict with the devil himself!
But isn’t it just like the devil to attack at the weakest point? He knows what’s on Jesus’ mind after fasting so long!
If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.
Not a bad idea really. What’s the harm? Later Jesus will multiply the loaves and fishes, no problem.
Sometimes even a reasonable idea should be resisted just because of who suggests it, and why! Jesus gives him no quarter. He knows the devil’s ploy to get Him to go along – compromise - a little at a time.
It never stops with the first harmless suggestion, does it? Soon you’re in over your head. Someone else is calling the shots.
Jesus politely tells him that He will listen to God, thank you very much!
The next clash is over another seemingly harmless idea. Show your power. Jump! The angels will catch you. Isn’t that what the Bible says?
When the enemies of God start quoting Scripture, pardon me if a big red flag goes up! Jesus isn’t outflanked. He will demonstrate His miraculous power only when God leads Him to do it.
Unable to trick Jesus, the devil at last unleashes his true intention with a direct assault. You want a shortcut to world power? Worship me!
No way. Only the Lord my God is worthy of my worship and service.
I love how this battle ends. Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended to him.
Jesus’ perfection astounds me.
ReplyDeleteHis wisdom to see what is truly going on
His unfailing allegiance to God the Father
His insight of the bigger picture
His knowledge of the Word and will of God
His self control, to resist the human urges
His refusal to be self-serving
His patience and endurance
His focus on spending time with God
(why would he go fast in the wilderness to begin with?)
Jesus’ perfection pints out my imperfection.
Praise to Your name, Jesus! Praise and thanks to my Lord and Savior and friend and guide. Help me to become more like you, O Lord, in all of my ways. Grant me wisdom and insight, as I look into Your word. Create in me a pure heart, and renew a STEADFAST Spirit within me. Grant me the fruits of your Spirit. Guide me from within. Keep the evil one far from me, yet when he is near, strengthen me, so that I may honor you, Oh Lord.