When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time. (Luke 4:13)
Jesus had been as sorely tempted as any human in history. The devil thought if he could only cause God’s Son to stumble as had the children of God, he could ruin God’s plan of salvation. The devil offered Jesus power, riches and recognition, things that had drawn people away before. (Footnote – Satan tells Jesus these are his to give and people ask “Is that true?” Why would you ever believe the devil? No they are not and even so, he has never fulfilled a promise!) However, Jesus stood firm against the devil’s lies and put His whole faith in God’s love and strength.
We face the same trials Jesus did, and we can rely on the same Heavenly Father. God loved us so much that He sent Jesus to be our model and our sacrifice for all sin, for all time. Count on that truth and don’t fall for the lies evil tells us!
Loving Lord, we pray “lead us not into temptation”, and we know You never will, but give us strength to hear Your truth and avoid the traps the world sets for us. May we follow Jesus’ example and trust in You for all things. Amen.