Our reading for today is Matthew 4:9-11
Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. “All this I will give You,” he said, “if You will fall down and worship me.”
“Away from Me, Satan!” Jesus declared. “For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’” Then the devil left Him, and angels came and ministered to Him.
The devil’s last temptation was bold. He pointed to the kingdoms of the world and whispered, “It can all be Yours—just bow down.” He offered Jesus a crown without the cross and glory without sacrifice. Jesus knew better. There are no shortcuts to greatness!
I love how He handled it. No debate. No bargaining. Just three words: “Away from me.” Temptation doesn’t need a discussion; it needs a dismissal.
Then came the angels. After the desert, after the hunger, after the struggle, God sent the angels. That’s how God works. Strength comes after resistance. God’s comfort follows faithfulness. He doesn’t leave His children stranded in the wilderness.
So what do we learn? Don’t look for shortcuts. Worship only God. Reject the devil. Speak firmly to temptation. Lean on the Word. And trust that God’s help will come.
I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.