Wisdom & Discernment
Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it. Jesus prepared for the Test by fasting forty days and forty nights. That left him, of course, in a state of extreme hunger, which the Devil took advantage of in the first test: “Since you are God’s Son, speak the word that will turn these stones into loaves of bread.”
-Matthew 4:1-3 (MSG)
-Matthew 4:1-3 (MSG)
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November 12, 2018 – Why was it wrong for Jesus to turn the stones into bread when he was hungry? In response to Satan’s offer, Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy 8 when Moses reminded a new generation of God’s provision of manna in the wilderness. Jesus taught us a couple of truths that are super important. First, rely solely on God. Be thankful for his provision and timing. And, secondly, and somewhat disconcertingly, it is possible for Satan to offer us good things. How many times have I fallen for this in my life? Being impulsive isn’t a spiritual gift. We need wisdom and discernment to know when what is before us is truly from God. How will we know? Look beyond the gift to the fruit it will produce in your life.
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The answer to the above question, “How many times have I fallen for this?” Far too many! This is why learning to listen to the Holy Spirit, really hearing his voice, is the key to walking with God. It has been well said that Satan doesn’t have to corrupt us as long as he can get us to settle for good enough.
Don’t fall for the deceiver’s plan. Don’t betray yourself by helping the thief steal, kill, and destroy. Say “NO!” to the immediate and the good. Press on to attain the abundant life that is in Christ.
Don’t fall for the deceiver’s plan. Don’t betray yourself by helping the thief steal, kill, and destroy. Say “NO!” to the immediate and the good. Press on to attain the abundant life that is in Christ.
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