Scripture Union Daily Guide 2nd January 2025 (Thursday) Devotional Message
TOPIC: Satan Dares to Tempt Jesus
OPENING PRAYER: Sanctify my life dear Lord as I study your word in Jesus name.
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:1-11
QUESTION FOR REFLECTION
► Q2: Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
Scripture Union Daily Guide 2 January 2025 – OUTLINE
We note that the Holy Spirit-led Christ, who is engaged in a very godly practice or activity, can still be tempted by the devil. The temptations were a test of Jesus’ character. Believers face tests of character in general and leadership tests. Note the different types of temptation and test: Matthew 4:2-4,5-7,8-10. For each type of temptation look at the nature and what might appeal to Jesus.
Indeed, the temptations and tests were on “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life”(see Genesis 3:4;1John 2:16). The devil was persistent in his attacks on Jesus, but Jesus prevailed through His concentration on God’s word, and His perseverance to obey and honour God according to scriptures (Matthew 4:7-10).
To survive temptations and tests, we are to intentionally focus on thinking biblically, and behaving according to the standard of God’s word in every situation we face. Jesus was perfectly human and perfectly divine. Satan’s desire was to lure Him into sin by abusing the use of His supernatural power; and diverting Him from total obedience to God and His word. However, Jesus overcame him by using the Word of God (… “it is written…”).
In Christ’s victory is our assurance of victory when we are tempted and tested. Whatever temptations you may face right now, with the Holy Spirit’s help and the word of God, you can overcome them.
God’s word is sharper than any two-edged sword; we must know to continually live in victory.
* Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Offer a prayer of faith in line with: Psalms 81:10
Also note the assurance in 1 Corinthians 10:13; Hebrews 4:14-16.
CLOSING PRAYER: Thank you, Father, that in our victorious Christ, we too can overcome every temptation.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING GUIDE:
Genesis 2, Psalms 3-4.
PRAYER BULLETIN FOR TODAY:
PRAYER FOCUS
REBUILDING THE BROKEN WALLS
Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations,… Is. 58:12
THANK GOD FOR:
* This timely and apt theme He has given us this year • The privilege to be part of the remnant He wants to use for rebuilding the broken walls
PRAY FOR:
* God will be delighted in us as we release ourselves to Him • God will grant us sensitivity in the spirit as we do this work • Every one of us will understand this assignment and run with it
Scripture Union is an international, interdenominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God. (Scripture Union Daily Guide 2nd January 2025)