SCRIPTURE:
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Matthew 4:1-3
OBSERVATION:
Sometimes it’s overwhelming…overwhelming to remain pure in this dark world, overwhelming to resist temptation, and overwhelming to say no to sin. In fact, sometimes we get to the point where we feel like it’s a lost cause to stand against sin, so rather than standing against it in perceived futility, we dive in head first. I’m sure I’m not the only one discouraged by the pull of sin and my weak flesh’s ability to stand against it. But…but today Jesus reminds us that we can conquer temptation, we can stand for what is Godly, and we can overcome sin.
The stage has been set following Jesus baptism where the heavens opened up and God spoke His love and approval, and things are looking great for Jesus and His followers…but seemingly moments later we find Jesus in a far different situation. The next chapter of Matthew opens up with Jesus in the wilderness tired, hungry, and in the midst of a battle. He had experienced 40 days of harsh conditions where he’d been fasting with no food or nutrition to speak of. He was weak and worn, and in this feeble state He was confronted by the devil. Here the devil would tempt Him, not once, not twice, but three times in the lust of the flesh, pride of life, and the lust of the eyes, and three times Jesus stood victorious over these temptations not only identifying with our struggle but revealing important lessons for us today:
- Temptation is to be expected. In fact, more often than not, temptation will come when we are in our weakest moments. In times of struggle, hardship, and frustration we often find ourselves tempted to find solace and comfort in the things of this world. It’s critical we see it coming and are ready to fight.
- Temptation can be conquered. When we’ve fallen so many times it becomes a “normal” part of life that we just accept. In fact, sometimes we even convince ourselves that it’s “just me and who I am”. Today God is reminding us that we are a new creation, we are changed and transformed, and we have freedom in Him. The sin and temptation that once ruled our lives no longer needs to. The anger, the addiction, the evil no longer has to define us. Temptation can be conquered, and Jesus displayed that. I get it…we’re not Jesus, BUT… the same strength and power to overcome is bestowed to us through the Holy Spirit.
- Temptation isn’t conquered alone. Jesus conquered temptation through the power and authority of God’s Word. He didn’t try to battle it with his own will or determination, He didn’t run and hide from it, but He stood in the power and promises of God.
APPLICATION:
Life would be much easier if we were never tempted, yet we need to be sober minded and aware that the enemy is waiting for an opportune time to strike. If we are aware and expect it, if we believe it can be conquered, and if we stand in the power and authority of God’s Word we can overcome. Maybe you’ve fallen to the same sin time and time again…today is your day of freedom. Be reminded that your past doesn’t define you; rather, His victory defines you. You can overcome. Is it going to be a fight that takes effort and intentional choices, absolutely. But the good news is that the Holy Spirit is ready to grant you the strength, fortitude, and ability to conquer. You can do it; just choose it!
PRAYER:
Jesus, I praise You for overcoming the evil one and for becoming our Victorious King. Thank You for then granting us the same freedom, power, and ability to overcome. Help us, now, to walk in it, to choose it, and to live it out. Help us to fight against temptation and no longer accept compromise in our lives that we might honor You today. In Your name, Amen!
