PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 4:1-11
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Away from me, Satan!” (Matthew 4:10).
Jesus knows he is under attack; do I realize when I am under attack.
Whether people believe Satan is a real creature, everyone experiences Satan.
Thoughts that go through our mind everyday can be Satan voices.
Or words from other people, even people we love (like Peter, Matthew 16:23).
Tempting or negative, judgmental, distracting or despairing voices or thoughts.
Thoughts or words that draw me in unhealthy, unhelpful and unholy directions.
Some thoughts may seem harmless, some are obviously bad.
Some seem so good (like an angel of light, 2 Corinthians 11:14) that we give in.
Though it will not always be obvious, some are clearly wrong… how do I respond?
A soft resistance will not shut down a strong attack.
I’ve got to raise my aggression to yell “Away from me, Satan!” (Matthew 4:10).
And with these words, I need to add ‘Come to me, Jesus!’, also with energy!
Jesus beats Satan for me, so that I can beat him too; Jesus will help me!
As a Jesus follower, I am still vulnerable, but Jesus can help me boldly refuse to give in.
PRAYER
Lord, negative thoughts and voices come at me all the time. Help me to refuse them firmly, and to say it like I mean it.
We don’t say no to temptation because God has promised us more, we say no to temptation knowing we may never get that chance again. That’s the hard part.
Lord help me align my heart with yours, help me be content and grateful when my plans fail (cause yours dont)
For me – it’s a matter of getting it right: my life, my breath, comes from God – I should not put God to the test but instead worship Him with my life an service – for it He who enables me (provides), keeps me on the right path (by His Holy Spirit) and cleanses me so that I might be able to worship Him in Spirit and in truth! Lord you are good and faithful – Lord Jesus you faced the tempter – help me to face my temptations each day!
Hold on.
In doubt and temptation I need to hold on to Jesus and His Word.
His voice is THE voice that needs to lead me and guide me in the way I walk.
I always need to come to Jesus for He is my power and strength.
In doubt and temptation I rest, Lord, in thee;
my hand is in thy hand, thou carest for me;
my soul with thy counsel through life thou wilt guide,
and afterward make me in glory abide.
Refrain:
My God, I will extol thee
and ever bless thy name;
each day will I give thanks to thee
and all thy praise proclaim.