Posted on 01/23/2019 5:32:04 AM PST by metmom
Jesus said to him, Go, Satan! For it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only (Matthew 4:10).
The devils final proposal was so outlandish and beyond the boundaries of Gods will that Jesus dismissed him with the terse, firm command, Go, Satan! Satan can wield his present power only by Gods permission; therefore he had no choice but to leave Christs presence. This last interaction is a prime example of our Lords sovereign mastery over the enemy.
If the Savior would not compromise on a mundane matter such as turning stones to bread, He certainly would not compromise on the major issue of worshiping and serving anyone besides the Father and the Father alone.
Christ will finally inherit Gods kingdom in Gods perfect time, and we will inherit it with Him (Matt. 5:5; 25:34; Rom. 8:17). This glorious truth doesnt mean God will not give us many good things in this life, because no one desires our happiness more than our heavenly Father. Jesus Himself later taught, If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him! (Matt. 7:11). Knowing this, why should any of us want to settle for any of the cheap, fleeting substitutes of instant gratification that Satan offers?
Ask Yourself
What inspires you the most about Jesus reactions to Satans three temptations? What are the most convicting or compelling aspects of His testimony that would look good on you as well? Thank Him for His sturdy, steady faithfulnessand ask Him to grow the same in you.
Studying God’s Word ping
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.