Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

Matthew 4:1

If you’ve ever gone camping or hiking in some remote wilderness, you will understand that there are unseen dangers in the wilderness. Depending on where you go, you could encounter grizzlies, snakes, lions, or a bad fall with no help nearby. The world as we know it today is an explorer’s paradise, with tempting scenery constantly beckoning the lone adventurer. In Matthew 4: 1, Jesus is led by the Spirit of God into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil right after he had been declared, the Son of God. While he is out there, alone, the devil tries to tempt him three times (vs. 3, vs.5, vs. 9), but Jesus, under the power of God’s Spirit, responds to each temptation by quoting the unchanging word of God, ‘It is written….”

Perhaps at some point in your life, you’ve found yourself in a spiritual wilderness, all alone with no one to turn to? Maybe the devil even whispered temptations in your ear that you found hard to resist. Out there in the wilderness, the devil tempted the Son of God, and in like fashion, he will tempt you and me. No one is immune. When temptation comes knocking, and it will, Jesus shows us how to win the battle.

First, always be prepared. Jesus had been fasting 40 days and 40 nights, during which time, he sought his Father’s face. If Jesus, who was sinless, found it necessary to seek God’s face, how much more should we who are sinful desire God’s guidance? Secondly, Jesus repelled the devil by relying on the Spirit’s guidance. Seek to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit daily. Hunger for the Lord’s Presence every day. Finally, Jesus sent the devil packing by quoting the truth of God’s word. Many believers have gone astray because they relied on their own logic. So do not trust in your own knowledge, experience, status, might, or power or anything else (Zechariah 4:6). If you rely on self, you will lose. As you ponder these thoughts today, ask yourself, “Where is my wilderness?” Then ask the Lord God, to give you his wisdom to combat the devil.

Heavenly Father forgive me for those times, I’ve tried to go it alone. I thank you for your Spirit, who is able to teach and guide me, and give me victory over temptation. I ask for a fresh infilling of your Holy Spirit today, and every day. Come Lord, Jesus as I wait on you. Amen.