Tempted
Posted by Karah
Pause
Mull over this quote from Francis Chan:
“I have one good reason why you should walk away from temptation right now. One reason: God. Is. Better.”
On a scale of 1 to 10, how much would you say Jesus can really relate to your life and problems? Why? Record a few thoughts below.
Now, read Matthew 4:1-11 in your Bible like you’re reading it for the very first time. Answer the following questions:
What is something from these verses that stands out to you now that you’ve never really noticed before? Why did it stand out?
For what reason would the Holy Spirit lead Jesus into the wilderness where He would be tempted by the Devil?
To discover the answer to that question, read Hebrews 2:14-18.
“Therefore, He had to be like His brothers in every way, so that He could become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For since He Himself was tested and has suffered, He is able to help those who are tested.” —Hebrews 2:17-18
Why does it matter that Jesus became like us and was tempted just as we are?
How has Jesus helped you in the midst of temptation?
Respond
Underneath each heading, list ways you’re tempted in those same areas. Now, considering how Jesus responded to temptation, pray about how He wants you to respond to yours.
physical desires (bread):
importance (reveal greatness):
worldly success (granted kingdoms):
For further study, read a parallel account of Jesus’ temptation in Luke 4:1-13.
Behind the Story
The only Person who can serve as a mediator between God and humanity is the One who is both God and man. Because Jesus was tested and suffered as a man and remained faithful, He was able to appease God, turning God’s righteous wrath for our sins away from us. Because Jesus knows what it is like to be us and has been tempted Himself, He also knows how to help us when we face temptation.
The Point
Because Jesus faced temptation, He can help us when we are tempted.
Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions