Be Aware of the Enemy

But Jesus answered him, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone.”

Luke 4:4, CSB 

One of the smartest marketing schemes I have ever fallen victim to happened at an amusement park. While waiting in line for two hours to ride a popular roller-coaster in 100-degree weather, I came face to face with what my heart and soul desired. Right in front of my eyes was this huge metal trough full of ice-cold bottled water. My shirt was drenched from sweat, and my mouth was dry, but these problems could all be tamed with this five-dollar bottled water. Needless to say, I gave in to the temptation and bought one of the most expensive bottled waters imaginable! 

Jesus had been in the hot, dry and treacherous desert for 40 days. You can imagine how hungry, thirsty and exhausted He must have been. Since Jesus was extremely hungry, it was only fitting for Satan to tempt Him to turn stones into bread. However, Jesus refused to give into the tempter. He knew that His obligation to please the Father was more important than pleasing His flesh. 

Jesus was hungry, so Satan tempted Him with food. Satan knows our weaknesses, so it only makes sense for him to tempt us with the things that we desire. If you struggle with lust, Satan probably isn’t going to lure you with gossip. If you struggle with gossiping, he is not going to waste his time tempting you with alcohol. 

PRAY: Ask God to protect your heart and mind from the schemes of the enemy. Also, ask Him to give you the strength and faith to walk away from temptation when it comes your way. 

ACT: Know your weaknesses and be ready to combat Satan in those areas before he ever tempts you. Today, start memorizing Scripture that applies to the things you struggle with. Your one will have a hard time listening to you if you’re lifestyle doesn’t look any different than theirs.