Experiencing Jesus e~Devotional | 5/22

PASSAGE: Matthew 4 [8] Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. [9] “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” [10] Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ ” [11] Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

INSIGHT: Satan tries one more time to get Jesus to cave into trusting himself instead of his heavenly Father. This last temptation is a full-on attack – not as subtle as the first two temptations. Satan’s offer is real since the Bible tells us that he rules the world (Ephesians 2:2; 3:10 and 6:12). When you look at this final temptation, you may be thinking that this one is fairly easy to resist. But, when we’re struggling to make ends meet and we look at how well others are doing, we may be enticed to want more things. When we see those in power over us, we may become envious and want that kind of power and authority too.

Possessions, power and money are not unhealthy. It’s the love or envy of these things that is unhealthy. Why? We’re most likely moving toward seeking to satisfy ourselves – above and beyond that God may want for us.

Jesus resists the temptation by quoting Scripture to Satan. He seeks God’s will first. “I can do nothing on my own.”

PRAYER FOCUS: Thank God for the many blessings that you have. Be satisfied with what he has given you.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICE TODAY: Do a spiritual inventory of your life. Is there any unhealthy envy in your life that may be pulling you away from God? If there is, ask God to help be fully satisfied with him, the things he had given you and the life that you have.

There’s an old hymn that I’m reminded of from time to time that helps me get perspective on all that God has given me. Read it and focus today on the incredible love and provision of our heavenly Father.

When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,

Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.