Psalm of the Day: Psalm 34
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 20:17-30
Scripture Reading: Luke 4:1-13
Let us first mark in this passage the power and unwearied malice of the devil. That old serpent who tempted Adam to sin in Paradise was not afraid to assault the second Adam, the Son of God. Satan saw in Jesus One who had come into the world to overthrow his kingdom. He had seen what happened at our Lord's baptism. He had heard the marvelous words from Heaven. He felt that the great Friend of man was come and that his own dominion was in peril. The Redeemer had come. The prison door was about to be thrown open. The lawful captives were about to be set free.
Satan resolved to fight for his own. The prince of this world would not give way to the Prince of peace without a mighty struggle. He had overcome the first Adam in the garden of Eden why should he not overcome the second Adam in the wilderness? He had spoiled man once of Paradise why should he not spoil him of the kingdom of God.
Let it never surprise us, if we are tempted by the devil. Let us rather expect it, as a matter of course, if we are living members of Christ. The Master's lot will be the lot of His disciples. That mighty and malicious spirit who did not fear to attack Jesus himself is still going about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. That murderer and liar who vexed Job, and overthrew David and Peter still lives, and is not yet bound.
If he cannot rob us of Heaven, he will at any rate make our journey there painful. If he cannot destroy our souls, he will at least bruise us. Let us beware of thinking lightly of his power. Let us rather put on the whole armor of God, and cry to the strong for strength. "Resist the devil and he will flee from you." (James 4:7.)
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me resist the temptation of Satan and serve the Living God.
Action Plan: What areas in my life do I give in to temptation the most and how should I combat them?
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
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