Follow the Bible reading plan in the FBC Loganville App or at www.fbcloganville.org/bible
“for forty days to be tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when they were over, he was hungry. The devil said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.'”
Have you ever signed up for a service to find out that there are hidden fees, blackout dates, fine print, or terms that weren’t obviously stated? The great deal that you found turns out to be a great deal for the seller and not for you!
Sin operates in the same way.
Sin promises life but leads us away from life.
Sin promises community but leads us to isolation.
Sin promises fulfillment but leaves us empty.
I’ve heard some well-meaning Bible teachers talk about sin in terms that makes it seem like only the dumb and foolish fall into it. While sin is obvious, the progression of sinful acts begin with small steps away from God’s commands and provisions. Satan doesn’t advertise side effects of sin – he wants you to take the cup. His temptations are precise and appeals to your weaknesses and insecurities. Satan doesn’t throw random temptations out there for you – he tried to hit you where you aren’t strong.
Jesus began his ministry with 40 days of fasting and isolation in the wilderness. This was anything but a camping retreat. Satan was there, tempting Jesus in an effort to sway the Savior. Being fully man and fully God, Jesus felt hunger, pain, and fatigue. This specific temptation came when Jesus was physically exhausted. Satan isn’t a dummy running around with a pitch fork. His temptations appeal to our weaknesses. Jesus was hungry and Satan tempted him with a basic human need – food.
Sin will always mask itself as an avenue for satisfaction and life. This road doesn’t lead to the destination that it promises. The road of sin is a dead end. Thankfully Jesus overcame temptation, sin, and death so that we don’t have to give in! Jesus is the “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6). He will restore the wreck that sin has caused and will set your feet upon the path of everlasting life.
Apply:
- Have you fallen victim to a “good deal” that came with hidden fees?
- Are you physically, mentally, spiritually, or emotionally exhausted?
- Are you being tempted in that area of life because you are tired?
Respond:
God, give us protection against the evil one. You will not lead us into temptation. We confess our sins and desire to draw near to you. Amen.
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The F260 NT Bible reading plan and HEAR Journal method is from Replicate Ministries.
Chase Snyder
Writer, Pastor
