Scripture: Luke 4:13
After finishing every temptation, the devil departed from him until the next opportunity.
Thought for the Day: I’ve always been intrigued by these words. Jesus has just finished an onslaught of temptations, misguided and slanderous suggestions that were seeking to redirect his attention from the ways of God. You finish reading it, and you wipe the sweat from your brow and give thanks that it is all over. And then you read those last words, “…until the next opportunity.” Whether it is that darn chocolate cake that is tempting us or the expensive car that we really can’t afford or an opportunity of making some money by taking advantage of someone else or undermining another person in our feeble attempt at building ourselves up, there will always be the next opportunity. Even when we can stand proudly in our triumph over temptation, let us never become too comfortable or prideful. Arrogance can become the unintended doorway for temptation to not only slip in, but claim a victory itself.
Prayer: Let me be mindful of all that is attempting to lure me away from you and your magnificent grace, O Lord. I sincerely invite your help in this ongoing work. Amen.
SUNDAY’S SERMON
Even Jesus Was Tempted
