Read: Matthew 4:1-11

Jesus amazes me. I wrote last week that Jesus became human and experienced everything we do. He experienced fatigue, hunger and exhaustion. When his disciples fought about who was the best, he might even have rolled his eyes. But most importantly, he experienced temptation like we do. And he overcame! And because he did, so can we.

Jesus’ purpose for coming to the earth was to overcome sin and death and to crush Satan’s head. When Jesus was tempted in the garden, everything centered around derailing Jesus’ purpose.

He could satisfy his physical desire and gain a following by turning stones into bread. That isn’t how God planned it. So Jesus said no.

He could impress and wow the crowds if he jumped off the temple only to have angels swoop him up and set him down on his feet amongst them. Wow! That would be crowd pleasing! That isn’t how God planned it. So Jesus said no!

He could have authority over all kingdoms of the earth if he only bowed down to Satan. He could avoid the cross, the pain, the terror. But that isn’t how God planned it. So Jesus said no.

God has a plan for your life. You have an idea of what that is and you are tempted to short circuit the route God has laid out for you. Will you say no?

God has a plan for you life. You know that includes a spouse and intimacy. Are you tempted to listen to the enemy who tells you a wedding doesn’t matter? Will you say no?

God has a plan for your life. You know you have the leadership skills to be the manager. Are you tempted to cut others down so you might get ahead? Will you say no?

Do you see the way out? Keep looking ’cause it’s there!

Remember….we are better together.