Overcoming Temptation: Trusting God's Wisdom and Word
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we delve into the profound topic of temptation, drawing from Ephesians 6 and Matthew 4. We are reminded of the spiritual battles we face and the necessity of putting on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes. The recent tragic events in Uvalde serve as a stark reminder of the world's depravity and the urgency to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
In Ephesians 6, Paul emphasizes the importance of being strong in the Lord and putting on the whole armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes. This sets the stage for our main text in Matthew 4, where Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. This passage is not just about Jesus' temptation but also about how we can manage our own temptations.
Jesus' encounter with the devil at the metaphorical table of temptation teaches us several key lessons. First, it shows that no one is immune to temptation, not even Jesus. The devil is real, strategic, and persistent in his efforts to lead us astray. However, Jesus' responses to the devil's temptations provide a blueprint for us. He relied on the Word of God, demonstrating the importance of knowing and applying Scripture in our lives.
We also learn that the devil often attacks us at our weakest moments, just as he did with Jesus after 40 days of fasting. Yet, Jesus did not succumb to the devil's distortions of truth. Instead, He trusted in God's wisdom, word, and worthiness. This teaches us that our strength lies in our relationship with God and our commitment to His Word.
In conclusion, we must trust the wisdom, word, and worthiness of God to overcome temptation. We must also recognize the devil's strategies and be proactive in our spiritual battles. By doing so, we can turn the tables on the devil and stand firm in our faith.
### Key Takeaways
1. Trust in God's Wisdom: Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, a place of testing and temptation. This teaches us to trust God's wisdom, even when it leads us into challenging situations. Faith often requires us to follow without knowing the outcome, trusting that God's wisdom will guide us through. [20:00]
2. Rely on the Word of God: Jesus countered the devil's temptations by quoting Scripture, emphasizing the importance of knowing and applying God's Word. This shows that our strength in spiritual battles comes from a deep understanding and belief in the Scriptures. We must immerse ourselves in the Word to effectively counter the devil's lies. [23:44]
3. Recognize the Devil's Strategies: The devil is strategic and attacks us at our weakest points. He distorts truth to lead us astray. Understanding his tactics helps us to be vigilant and prepared. We must not underestimate his power but also remember that he is not more powerful than God. [10:17]
4. Commit to Worshiping God Alone: Jesus' refusal to worship the devil, despite being offered all the kingdoms of the world, teaches us the importance of exclusive devotion to God. Our worship should not be compromised by our desires or needs. True worship involves prioritizing God above all else. [32:26]
5. Trust in God's Victory: Jesus' victory over the devil's temptations assures us that we too can overcome. The devil may be persistent, but God's power and Word equip us to stand firm. We must trust in God's ultimate victory and remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that He will see us through. [35:25]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:18] - Opening Prayer and Reflection on Uvalde
[02:16] - Introduction to Ephesians 6
[03:42] - The Metaphorical Table of Temptation
[04:37] - Jesus' Temptation in Matthew 4
[05:51] - The Reality of Temptation
[06:47] - Misconceptions About Temptation
[07:43] - The Need for Education on Temptation
[08:43] - Understanding Demonology
[10:17] - The Devil's Strategies
[11:41] - The Persistence of the Devil
[12:58] - Jesus' Obedience and Commitment
[14:39] - The Importance of Knowing the Word
[16:06] - Turning the Tables on Temptation
[18:40] - Trusting God's Wisdom
[20:00] - Trusting God's Word
[22:23] - Trusting God's Worthiness
[25:17] - Trusting God's Worship
[29:28] - The Devil's Deception
[32:26] - Exclusive Worship of God
[35:25] - Trusting God's Victory
[39:29] - Conclusion and Final Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 6:10-12 (ESV) - "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."
2. Matthew 4:1-11 (ESV) - "Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.' But he answered, 'It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.' Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, He will command his angels concerning you,' and 'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.' Jesus said to him, 'Again it is written, You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.' Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, 'All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.' Then Jesus said to him, 'Be gone, Satan! For it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.' Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Ephesians 6:10-12 say about the nature of our spiritual battles? How are we instructed to prepare for these battles? [02:16]
2. In Matthew 4:1-11, how does Jesus respond to each of the devil's temptations? What specific scriptures does He quote? [04:37]
3. According to the sermon, what are some of the devil's strategies when he tempts us? [10:17]
4. How does Jesus demonstrate His trust in God's wisdom, word, and worthiness during His temptation in the wilderness? [23:44]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted? What does this teach us about God's wisdom and guidance? [20:00]
2. How does Jesus' use of scripture in Matthew 4 serve as a model for us in resisting temptation? What does this imply about the importance of knowing God's Word? [23:44]
3. The sermon mentions that the devil often attacks us at our weakest points. How can understanding this help us be more vigilant and prepared in our spiritual battles? [10:17]
4. What does Jesus' refusal to worship the devil, despite being offered all the kingdoms of the world, teach us about the importance of exclusive devotion to God? [32:26]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant temptation. How did you respond, and what could you have done differently to rely more on God's wisdom and Word? [20:00]
2. How can you make a habit of immersing yourself in the Word of God to better equip yourself against the devil's lies and temptations? What specific steps will you take this week? [23:44]
3. Identify a current area of weakness in your life where you feel most vulnerable to temptation. How can you proactively guard against the devil's attacks in this area? [10:17]
4. In what ways can you commit to worshiping God alone, even when faced with desires or needs that tempt you to compromise your faith? [32:26]
5. How can you remind yourself of God's ultimate victory over the devil's temptations in your daily life? What practical actions can you take to remain steadfast in your faith? [35:25]
6. Think about a challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you trust God's wisdom and guidance, even if the outcome is uncertain? [20:00]
7. How can you support and encourage others in your small group to stand firm in their faith and resist temptation? What specific actions can you take to build a stronger community of believers? [41:48]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting God's Wisdom in Challenging Times
Description: Trusting God's wisdom means following His guidance even when it leads us into difficult situations. Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, a place of testing and temptation. This teaches us that faith often requires us to follow without knowing the outcome, trusting that God's wisdom will guide us through. In our own lives, we may face situations that seem insurmountable or confusing, but we must remember that God's wisdom is greater than our understanding. By trusting in His plan, we can navigate through life's challenges with confidence and peace. [20:00]
James 1:5-6 (ESV): "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."
Reflection: Think of a challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you trust God's wisdom in this situation, and what steps can you take to follow His guidance today?
Day 2: Relying on the Word of God
Description: Jesus countered the devil's temptations by quoting Scripture, emphasizing the importance of knowing and applying God's Word. This shows that our strength in spiritual battles comes from a deep understanding and belief in the Scriptures. Immersing ourselves in the Word equips us to effectively counter the devil's lies and stand firm in our faith. By regularly reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible, we build a strong foundation that helps us navigate life's challenges and resist temptation. [23:44]
Psalm 119:11 (ESV): "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
Reflection: What specific Bible verses can you memorize this week to help you counter the temptations you face? How can you incorporate regular Bible study into your daily routine?
Day 3: Recognizing the Devil's Strategies
Description: The devil is strategic and often attacks us at our weakest points, distorting truth to lead us astray. Understanding his tactics helps us to be vigilant and prepared. We must not underestimate his power but also remember that he is not more powerful than God. By recognizing the devil's strategies, we can be proactive in our spiritual battles, staying alert and relying on God's strength to overcome. This awareness allows us to stand firm in our faith and resist the devil's schemes. [10:17]
1 Peter 5:8-9 (ESV): "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world."
Reflection: Identify a recent situation where you felt spiritually attacked. How can you be more vigilant and prepared to recognize and resist the devil's strategies in the future?
Day 4: Committing to Worshiping God Alone
Description: Jesus' refusal to worship the devil, despite being offered all the kingdoms of the world, teaches us the importance of exclusive devotion to God. Our worship should not be compromised by our desires or needs. True worship involves prioritizing God above all else, recognizing His worthiness and sovereignty. By committing to worship God alone, we align our hearts and lives with His will, finding fulfillment and purpose in our relationship with Him. [32:26]
Deuteronomy 6:13-14 (ESV): "It is the Lord your God you shall fear. Him you shall serve and by his name you shall swear. You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are around you."
Reflection: Reflect on areas of your life where you may be tempted to prioritize other things over your relationship with God. How can you recommit to worshiping God alone and making Him the center of your life?
Day 5: Trusting in God's Victory
Description: Jesus' victory over the devil's temptations assures us that we too can overcome. The devil may be persistent, but God's power and Word equip us to stand firm. We must trust in God's ultimate victory and remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that He will see us through. By relying on God's strength and promises, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that victory is already secured through Christ. [35:25]
1 Corinthians 15:57-58 (ESV): "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to trust in God's victory? How can you remind yourself of His promises and rely on His strength to overcome this challenge?
Quotes
1. "If Jesus can be tempted, all of us can be tempted. And so somewhere along the line, there's a false theology that when you become spiritual enough, that you're no longer tempted. When you are mature enough, you're no longer tempted. And so we live in this illusionary world that once you grow high enough in Jesus Christ, then temptation does not crouch your door." [06:47] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Satan is real because Satan is influencing people, and Satan is out to destroy. First Peter 4 says, he's seeking whom he may devour. He is on the attack. He is looking for his next victim. He is looking for someone to destroy. He is looking for someone to destroy. He is looking for someone to destroy. He's looking to destroy your family. He's looking to destroy your future. He's looking to diminish your faith." [10:17] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Satan is strategic and purposeful. So, watch this now. It says here in verse 1, then Jesus was led up by the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting 40 days and 40 nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, why would the tempter come after 40 days and 40 nights? Because the devil is purposeful and the devil is strategic. And the devil knows when you are vulnerable. The devil knows where you are vulnerable. And the devil wants to attack you at your weakest moment." [10:17] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus didn't put God on trial because he was going through a trial. He did not question the care and the wisdom of God. So, we see here that Satan is real. Satan is purposeful. Satan is powerful. Satan is persistent. And Satan is persuasive. But what do we see about Jesus? Jesus is obedient to the spirit's leading." [12:58] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus knows the word intricately so he can analyze and assess and address life and satanic attacks. Watch this now. Many folks say, well, boy, I know the word. Knowing the word is different from believing in the word. You can believe in the word but not know the word. You can even know certain scriptures and certain cliches. But then do you know God's word well enough, intricately enough, comprehensively enough, so you can strategically apply God's word to the various scenarios that show up in your life?" [14:39] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "When we deviate and when we sin at the core of sin is idolatry. Who will we worship? He says, he says here, he says here, you shall worship the lord your god and him only. But boy, he hungry. According to verse one and two, he hungry. According to verse one and two, he vulnerable. According to verse one and two, you know what? He's in need. You shall worship the lord your god and him only shall you serve." [33:26] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We have authority to claim God's word and trust God's word and know that God will enable us to triumph over any temptation that comes our way. When we rest in his word and we rest in him. Y'all don't believe me, do y'all? You missed your cue. You should have been clapping right there. Because we all face temptation, don't we? And we all wonder if we can make it through this temptation. The word of God shows you, you can make it through the temptation when you rely upon the wisdom and the word of God." [36:37] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We have this thought, we have this false idea that if we ignore the power of Satan, that Satan is no longer powerful. It's like playing against Michael Jordan and say, you know what? He don't mean nothing to me. He can't score on me. Michael Jordan ain't real. And after he dunk on your head in the fourth quarter, you're going to find out he's real already. Just because you ignore him, just because you diminish him, just because you quote unquote cast him out, does not mean he doesn't exist anymore." [37:37] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "The devil does not have as much power as God. But he's got more power than you apart from God. So it ought to be a level of respect for your enemy. Are we tracking together? In fact, the Bible even teaches that if you resist the devil, he will afflict you. He didn't say go start a fight with the devil. He didn't say get your bag and go to a gunfight. The devil has power. But he doesn't have more power than us when we trust God's word, we trust God's wisdom, and we use God's word instead of our own power and authority." [38:44] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We have won some battles of Mr. Satan in the past. But I can guarantee you, until you get to heaven, he's going to come back and knock on that door again. He's going to come back. He's going to try you again. He's going to identify a different vulnerability, go a different way. Because the ultimate goal doesn't change. But it's good to get a win. If you can win this one, we'll worry about the next one when it comes." [41:10] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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