He Cares For You

After Jesus was baptized he was filled with the Holy Spirit. But, before Jesus began his ministry, he was led by the Spirit into the desert where he was tempted by the devil for 40 days. I don't know about you but temptation is bad enough to resist in a fleeting moment, let alone for 40 days! 

I forget sometimes that it is satan who is out there waiting for Christians to fail in their path toward heaven. He is the one who tempts us in any wait he can think of. He especially likes to find Christians who are vulnerable or those who are feeling strong. He likes the challenge. Jesus was the perfect target for satan in the desert, alone. 

Jesus experienced being human, like us. He knows exactly what it is like to face temptation in our daily lives. He understands us and He took the ultimate test. But, He resisted satan's powerful temptations, one after another. He used Scripture against satan but He did not sin. When we are tempted we must remember we only sin if we give in to satan's temptations which can come in areas of a physical need or desire, in possessions or power, or in our pride. When we are tempted we must turn to God for strength through our struggles.

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you," (1 Peter 5:6 NIV).

Dear God, we see how Jesus fought the devil and won, over and over. Help us Lord, in our daily temptations to use Your strength for good. Help us make the right decisions even when we are tired, lonely or hungry. Help us resist the temptation to use our strengths in prideful ways. Lead us, O God, through this difficult mass of struggles called life. We need You. We put our trust in You, and we thank You for Your care. We pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.