Jesus Is Tempted in the Wilderness

Matthew 4:8-10 (NIV): 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”

What Does It Mean to Fully Submit to God?

The devil tempts Jesus three times in the wilderness before He begins His ministry. Here, the devil tries to tempt Jesus with power and glory (the crown) without the cross, if He will compromise and worship Satan. Jesus rejects this shortcut to power and recognizes that worship is exclusive to God. Fame, power, and comfort are not worthy of worship. He exercises spiritual authority through complete submission to God. He rebukes Satan with the Word of God, not by using emotions or shouting louder than the opponent.

Now Let's Pray

Dear Heavenly Father thank You for the obedience and authority of Jesus through his temptation in the wilderness. We pray this same obedience and surrender into our hearts as we continue to rebuke spiritual attacks from the enemy every day. When he brings us to high mountains and shows us splendor kingdoms, arm us with the Sword of the Spirit to rebuke his schemes and remain focused on You.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.