Week 1 | Day 3 THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS Matthew 4:1-11 | Luke 4:1-13

Right after His baptism, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for 40 days He faced Satan’s full assault. The devil came at Him through the same three channels that still hit us today: the lust of the flesh (“turn these stones to bread”), the lust of the eyes (“all these kingdoms I will give You”), and the pride of life (“prove who You are—throw Yourself down”). Yet in every temptation, Jesus didn’t argue, negotiate, or rely on sheer willpower. He answered, “It is written…” and wields the Word of God as His primary weapon. In doing so, He unmasked Satan’s tactics and showed us the only sure way to stand: not in our flesh, but in the power of Scripture and the Holy Spirit. We must realize that we’re not strong enough to consistently win spiritual battles in our own strength. But as we hide God’s Word in our hearts and depend on the Spirit, we can become “more than conquerors” in Christ.

Application

1. Get in the Word so the Word Gets in You

Make Scripture a daily intake, not an occasional snack.

2. Fight with God’s Promises, not Your Willpower, Ability, or Ingenuity

When tempted, answer with what God has said, not with what you feel, think, or imagine.

3. Never Battle Alone

Surround yourself with accountable, honest believers who help you stand when you’re weak.

4. Stay Saturated with God’s Presence

Build habits of worship, praise, and prayer so your heart stays intoxicated with Him, not the world.

5. Stay Alert

Know your weak spots, the pull of the world, and the enemy’s patterns—and keep your spiritual ears tuned to the Spirit throughout the day.

Prayer

Lord, Thank You that You faced real temptation and stood firm so that You can help me in mine. Teach me to love and rely on Your Word the way You did in the wilderness. Fill me with Your Spirit, open my eyes to the enemy’s tactics, and keep me from trying to fight in my own strength. Surround me with brothers and sisters who help me walk in the light. Today, help me stand on what is written and follow You faithfully. In Your name, Amen.