Jan 13: Weekly Reading- Jesus & Satan (Temptation in the Wilderness); The Deceiver & Insight Post by Kim Feld
Weekly Reading: Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13
Monday Reflection
Jesus’ Trust in God’s Word: In the wilderness, Jesus demonstrated unwavering trust in Scripture as His defense against temptation. He didn’t argue or negotiate with the enemy, He simply relied on God’s Word, reminding us to do the same.
Monday Verse
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)
Monday Questions
How can I use Scripture in my own life to resist the temptations I face, trusting God’s Word as my ultimate defense like Jesus did in the wilderness? How can I rely on Scripture to correct, guide, and equip me in every situation, knowing that it teaches me what is true and right?
Monday Insight Post
by Kim Feld
Our reflection on Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness today focuses on the role of scripture in Jesus’ life. Jesus relied on His knowledge of God’s word to defend Himself against the temptations Satan sent His way. In Matthew and Luke’s accounts, we see that Satan also knew scripture and tried to sway Jesus by using it. However, Jesus not only knew the words, He knew the heart and intent behind them. There was no way that Satan would be able to outwit Jesus.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us scripture teaches, corrects, and equips us. Let’s take a look:
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. (NLT)
Jesus gave us a perfect example during his wilderness temptation in how He used scripture to defeat Satan’s plans to trip Him up. I am humbled by Jesus’ example and challenged to strengthen my knowledge and memory of scripture this year. I understand that scripture memory can be challenging, but it’s a journey worth taking. How would you rate your knowledge of scripture? If you are like me, there’s plenty of room for improvement!
In Rusty’s message yesterday, he shared that the top New Year’s resolutions are all centered on self—improving our health and finances. The beauty of scripture is that not only does it benefit us, but it also benefits those around us by teaching us and equipping us to reach out with the love of Jesus.
As you think about your goals for this brand-new year, what would it be like to incorporate scripture memory? Recalling scripture to mind, as Jesus did, can help us overcome temptation and provide a “way out.” Take a look at this:
13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13, NLT
God provides us with all we need to overcome temptation. We just have to ask, and He is faithful in providing. This year, let’s follow Jesus’ example and allow God’s word to defend us.
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach