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What I need
Jeff WeinkaufMatthew 4:1-4
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted[a] by the devil. 2After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
4Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’[b]”
I was thinking about this passage and realized a few things. First Jesus was led to the test. It’s clear here that God uses circumstances (tests) to temper, strengthen, solidify, and mature us. Jesus needed no maturing, but as our example He showed us how to move through the testing. Second Jesus prepared for the test. By fasting he removed himself from all distractions (including even food) in order to focus entirely on God the father and on the test ahead. Third, when he was at his most physically vulnerable that’s when the enemy offered a solution most pleasing to the flesh. Food yes, but he was also calling Jesus out “if you are the Son of God…” then prove it. Show me something flashy. Jesus has no need to prove to Satan who he was or what He was capable of. He instead resisted the temptation to lash out or act impulsively like we so often do when we’re in a weakened state (tired, isolated, empty etc.). Instead Jesus shows us the best thing to do is to turn and face God, literally ready to hang on each word.
I need to remember to be preparing for the tests. To study up and spend time with my master who has sound teaching. When (not if) the tests come I want to be like my example Jesus who instructed us to hang onto what truly lasts and what truly fills. Bread or any temporary satisfaction is here for a short time and then is gone, along with contentment that came from it. These types of solutions literally have a shelf life where God’s promises are eternal.
God please help me to draw closer to you and spend time marinating in your word and in your wisdom rather than temporary fillers. When the tests come, help me to be found approved. Amen
