Tested

 "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted (tested) by the devil."

— Matthew 4:1

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

The Holy Spirit, third Person of the Trinity, led you, the Son of God, into the wilderness. Wilderness (eremon) indicates it was a secluded, solitary place. There, you were tempted by the devil. The Greek word used is peirasthenai. Depending on the context, it can also mean "to test" or "to examine." Matthew 4:11 describes the outcome of this particular test, "Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him."

I've heard the expression that the test comes when the student is ready. My times of testing—whether a test from God or a temptation from the enemy—reveal what I have learned. But probably more often, those times of testing show the gaps in my instruction. When I am tested, I see what I still need to learn.

Lord, thank you for tests, trials, and temptations. They aren't pleasant. Hebrews 12:11 says, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness." Lord, thank you for passing your test in the wilderness. Because you resisted the enemy's temptation and passed this test, I know that in you, I can do the same.

Gracious Lord, today I choose to change my mindset about the tests, trials, and temptations that I will face. These tests are less about being attacked by the enemy than they are about revealing to me what I know and understand from Your Word. May I handle each test as the teacher that it is and be ready for it. I know that tests, like discipline, will produce a harvest of righteousness.

In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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