God’s Saving Word: Love
Introduction
Matthew 4:1-11: After John baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River, the Spirit leads Jesus into the desert where the devil tempts him. After the devil departs, angels come to help Jesus.
Scripture Reading
The Temptation of Jesus
4 Then the Spirit led Jesus into the desert to be tempted by the Devil. 2 After spending forty days and nights without food, Jesus was hungry. 3 Then the Devil came to him and said, “If you are God’s Son, order these stones to turn into bread.”
4 But Jesus answered, “The scripture says, ‘Human beings cannot live on bread alone, but need every word that God speaks.’”
5 Then the Devil took Jesus to Jerusalem, the Holy City, set him on the highest point of the Temple, 6 and said to him, “If you are God’s Son, throw yourself down, for the scripture says,
‘God will give orders to his angels about you;
they will hold you up with their hands,
so that not even your feet will be hurt on the stones.’”
7 Jesus answered, “But the scripture also says, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
8 Then the Devil took Jesus to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in all their greatness. 9 “All this I will give you,” the Devil said, “if you kneel down and worship me.”
10 Then Jesus answered, “Go away, Satan! The scripture says, ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve only him!’”
11 Then the Devil left Jesus; and angels came and helped him.
Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 4:10b
[Jesus said:] “Worship the Lord your God and serve only him!”
Reflect
Jesus had fasted for forty days and nights and was approached by the devil when he was hungry and vulnerable. In what ways did the devil try to tempt Jesus? How did Jesus respond? In what areas of your life are you most vulnerable? What helps you to resist temptation?
Pray
Lord Jesus, when I am faced with temptation, help me to place my trust in you and in your teachings. Nurture me each day with your Word. I promise to worship and serve you. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Matthew 4:12-25: Jesus begins his work in Galilee.