Luke 4: When Satan Tempts

Luke 4 is the chapter where Satan tempts Jesus. Jesus had just come from the Jordan full of the Holy Spirit. In other words, He came back from a trip with his heart right with God (as it always was with Jesus).

He then went into the wilderness and was tempted for 40 days by the devil. That's an astonishingly long time to be alone in the wilderness with anyone, but especially the devil. Jesus, of course, handled this time of temptation very well.

Here are a few of my thoughts about Luke 4:

1. Jesus entered the temptation being "filled with the Holy Spirit" (verse 1).

Be ready for Satan's attacks by keeping your relationship with God strong. How? Simply read the Bible and pray. Hang onto your "God Time" each day. Keep it scheduled and be punctual, just as you would if you were meeting with the Most Important Person Imaginable.

2. Satan attacks our weakest points (vs. 1-4).

Jesus had just gone 40 days without food. Satan knew what Jesus needed and craved most. So he suggests that Jesus turn a rock into bread. Of course Jesus could have done it! Instead, Jesus says, "Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word of God." Be aware of your weak areas. Satan knows what they are.

3. Jesus responded to Satan's temptations with Scripture (vs. 4, 8, 12).

Quoting Scipture is the best way to thwart Satan because he can't argue with God's word. Memorize Scriptures in the areas where you are weak so you will be ready the next time Satan strikes.

4. Satan eventually gives up for the time being (vs. 13).

Satan finally quit trying to tempt Jesus and left. Hang in there and stick close to God. Don't give in to the sin. Quote Scriptures in your head and out loud. Satan will leave.

5. Satan will try again. (vs. 13)

"[Satan] departed from [Jesus] until an opportune time." Satan will not give up permanently. He will wait until you are weak again. Be aware of that.

May you be successful in your Satan-dodging today!