How do you escape temptation?
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15
Sovereign Lord,
How we thank you for Jesus’ temptations,
first, because as we prayed yesterday,
it is through them that we are able
to overcome our temptations.
They do not merely offer a good example;
they show us the way out.
Through Christ,
the second Adam,
who, like the first Adam,
endured temptations,
and yet resisted.
Jesus was tempted
to provide sustenance through miraculous means (see Matt. 4:3);
while we cannot do this trick,
we are often tempted to believe
that you are not good
when you do not provide
what we think we need
when we think we need it.
Our Savior reminded us of our central hope
when he told Satan,
“Man does not live by bread alone
but by every word that comes
from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
We must trust in your goodness
even when we don’t see your provision.
Jesus was tempted to gain knowledge
that you loved him
by demanding you protect him (Matt. 4:5-7).
He resisted that temptation,
choosing to trust
that you protect him
even in suffering.
We must trust in your protection
even when we live
in the midst of uncertainty and confusion.
Jesus was tempted to gain glory
by worshiping Satan,
the father of lies (Matt. 4:8-9).
He refused,
naming his central focus
as the glory of God:
“You shall worship the Lord your God
and him only shall you serve” (Matt. 4:10).
We must refuse to seek glory
that belongs to you alone.
Thank you, good Father,
for giving us a sympathetic high priest
who has endured temptation.
May we run to his sheltering mercy and grace
to find help in our time of need (Heb. 4:16).
Amen.
Read Hebrews 4:14-16; Matthew 4:1-11
