"Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil."

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Isn't it interesting that Jesus was led by the Spirit of God into the wilderness to be tempted or tested by the devil? We usually think we never want to be in that place; yet, God is the one who arranged it for Jesus.

God wanted Jesus to meet the devil so He could overcome him. As far as God saw, it was the sooner the better.

The Message Bible says: "Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it."

We will all face similar tests. The devil is a defeated foe and we should not fear him or withdraw from conflict with him. God wants you to know you have authority when it comes to these spiritual contests.

God's Spirit will lead you to stand nose to nose with the devil in the wilderness of the sin and weakness of your life. This stand reinforces our loyalty to Jesus and teaches us that we are victorious over every sin and temptation as we say, "No, in Jesus name!" and mean it.

Today's Thought to Take With You:

God wants me to confront the enemy of my soul with the power of Jesus' name.

• Reading Plan A: Ephesians 1
  
• Reading Plan B: Proverbs 22
  
• Reading Plan C: Isaiah 16-18; Ephesians 1
  

Source: A Verse A Day
by Tim Davidson
Excerpt permission granted by
Word of Faith Church & Outreach Center