In Matthew 4 Jesus is led in the desert to be tempted by Satan. I find it interesting that Jesus teaches us to pray against temptation in the Lord's Prayer yet here Jesus is led by the Spirit into temptation. Certainly and interesting contrast.
But it was important for Jesus to do this, that he face the same temptations as you and me, but without sin. We can take comfort knowing that Jesus understands our struggles and can relate to our everyday experiences.
What stands out most in this story is the way Jesus resists temptation. He uses Scripture! He rebukes Satan with the Word of God. As a result it says, "the devil left him."
There is precedence for us to know God's Word. God's Word is living and active. It is sharper than any double edged sword. It is a weapon we hold against Satan. God's Word is not just empty words on a page, but they our powerful and effective.
This is why it is so important for us to be in God's Word. To read it! To study it! To pray it! To memorize it! To live it! To treasure it in our hearts!
The next time you experience the subtle temptation of Satan. Open up the Word. Unsheathe the blade!
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