In Matthew 4, we see the temptation of Jesus, and we see that the devil did not give up because Jesus passed the first temptation. Be careful because temptation will continue as long as we live as followers of Jesus.
In Matthew 4: 5-7, we see the second temptation. The devil takes Jesus to Jerusalem to the temple and says, “IF you are the Son of God, jump off. For the Scriptures say (even the devil knows the Word of God), “He will order His angels to protect you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.”
The devil always twists the Word of God! The devil distorts the Word of God! That is why we need to know the Word of God, so that we do not give in to temptation.
How does Jesus respond to this temptation?
Matthew 5:7; Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘YOu must not the test the Lord your God.”
We will give in to temptation if we really do not know the Word of God. We need to know the Word, and we need to apply the Word of God to our daily lives! How many people know the Word, but we are not obeying the Word of God!
Remember God’s Word: “Your Word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” We need to immerse ourselves in the Word, and let the Word take hold of us, and then we will have victory over temptation.
Lord, help me to be a hearer and doer of Your Word today!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Pastor Ronald Squibb has been the International Christian Center (ICC) Lead Senior Pastor at Staten Island, New York, since 2011. He draws many experiences from his over 40 years as a pastor and significant emotional life experiences.
His new book, Following the Journey with Jesus, which he co-authored with Daniel McNaughton, was recently published and is receiving rave reviews. His daily devotional appears in this publication.
