Reading in Matthew 4 this morning, I’m reminded of the unrelenting nature of Satan.  During a time of great spiritual discipline, Jesus was in need.  Satan saw this as an opportunity and looked for ways to try and tempt Jesus.  (think on that – Satan looks for just the right time & if he tried to tempt Jesus – he’ll certainly find ways to tempt you & me).  Satan even twisted God’s Word in an attempt to get Jesus to abandon God’s purpose for His life.

With each temptation, Jesus quoted scripture & rejected Satan’s temptations.

Possible take-aways for you & me in 2015:

a.  Know you’re going to be tempted to walk away from God & His purpose for your life.

b. Temptation often happens after times of great spiritual victory or when our needs are great.

c. Satan will always try to tempt you to doubt God’s goodness and His Word.

d. Jesus used scripture to rebuke Satan’s temptations – we can do the same.

e. Become so familiar with the Word of God that you can use it during times of temptation.

f. Even when troubled or in doubt – proclaim your faith in Jesus Christ – pour the Word of God into your heart and mind – pray honestly and ask God for his help.

Another verse just came to mind as I was writing this:  1 Cor. 10:13 – it’s a great reminder and verse to memorize related to temptation.