Jesus, Have You Been There?

Today we focus on Christ and His Lenten journey.  In the desert Jesus does what Israel failed to do in the wilderness and shows us how to overcome our temptations.  Let’s learn from His example and succeed in making changes in our lives this Lent.

Read Matthew 4.  http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible/matthew/matthew4.htm

Satan is a master accuser.  He even goes so far as to try to cause Christ to doubt.  Don’t think for one minute that he won’t do it to you.  This is why we need to look to Scripture and in particular to Christ to see how to respond.

The first thing Satan does is to question Jesus’ identity.  Doesn’t he do the same to you?  Are you really different because of Christ?  Are you really forgiven?  Are you really worth anything?

The next thing Satan does is to try to test God.  Doesn’t he ask you to do the same?  If God really cared about you, why would He let ________ happen?  Did God really say ____________?

Lastly Satan tries to tempt Christ into worshipping idols.  Sister, that is one old trick.  What is wrong with wanting money?  Or food?  Or sex?

Now, take hope!  Look at how Jesus responded.  He defended Himself with the Word of God.  You can do the same.  The more time you spend studying God’s Word, the more equipped you will be to overcome the devil.  Jesus was tempted in every way that we are but He wasn’t lured by “things” the way we are.  We have got to work overtime to overcome our temptations.

Look at what is tempting you.  Figure out which of the three tactics
Satan is using and respond with the Word of God.  Use the remaining days of Lent to do some heavy-armored combat.  Then on Easter morning, you will also rise from your tomb radiant and clean.

Check back tomorrow for this week's Ask Ellen question.