September 28, 2024 Devo

September 28th, 2024

“It’s All About Jesus!”
The Temptation of Jesus (Luke 4:1-14)
Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. – Luke 4:1-2 (NLT)
“He’ll Kick You When You’re Down”

We sometimes forget that Jesus was as human as He was divine. That means He had to deal with all the “stuff” we have to deal with. Jesus knew pain. He knew suffering. He knew what betrayal and abandonment felt like. His body grew tired just like ours do. And He got hungry.
I don’t know if you’ve ever fasted for any length of time, but it’s not an enjoyable experience. I’ve done it a few times when I’ve wanted to focus and use it as a discipline to draw closer to God. But I have to tell you, I didn’t like it. I’m not real big on delayed gratification. So when I’m hungry, I want to eat. And I want to eat NOW!
The Devil understands this. That’s why he attacks us when we’re vulnerable and weak. That’s why he waited until Jesus was REALLY tired and REALLY hungry before he began his tempting of Him. He knows that when you’re tired, angry, lonely, or afraid that you’re not thinking clearly, and you’re more susceptible to his suggestions. He doesn’t hit you when you’re UP. He kicks you when you’re down.
When you’re down, every problem feels bigger. So the Enemy seizes the moment to try to overwhelm you and get you to despair and quit. It’s when you’re down and need a break that the Enemy conveniently shows you a “sure-fire way” to cut a corner, take a shortcut, or do something that’s not completely ethical to help you get back on your feet or take a little of the pressure off. For those in recovery, it’s when life has gone sour that the old Deceiver lets you know where your “drug of choice” is available to “take the edge off.” The Devil isn’t just a liar, he’s a lowlife. And he has no problem at all taking advantage of a struggling soul.
If you’re down today, be aware. The Devil’s coming after you. He’s been watching and waiting for the opportune time, and you can bet he’s headed your way. But remember today that you are not alone. Jesus understands what you’re going through and is there for you. Don’t listen to the Devil, turn to Jesus instead. Turn to a trusted good friend as well. We’ve all had our encounters with the Enemy and any number of brothers or sisters would be happy to listen to you, empathize with you, and pray with you. Let us and Jesus surround you with love and faith and stand with you in your time of testing. That way when the Enemy kicks you when you’re down you can do what he isn’t expecting. Kick him back! That’s God’s Word for you today.