Matthew 4:4

Today's verse is a simple one...Matthew 4:4
"But he (Jesus) answered and said, 'It is written, Man shall not live on bread alone but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.' "

This is a very familiar story and one that has huge implications for our Bible study. It holds the key for us between either living a life of defeat or living a life of victory.

Jesus was led into the wilderness by the Spirit to be tempted by the devil. After fasting for 40 days and 40 nights, he became hungry (you think?). Satan came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread" (Matt. 4:3). Jesus responds with today's verse... "Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God". Jesus was actually quoting Deuteronomy 8:3, quoting scripture to fight Satan's lies and temptations. That is what we have to do as well. When Satan comes to us with a temptation or a negative thought, God does not leave us powerless. He gave us a weapon to fight with and that is the Sword of the Spirit, (Ephesians 6:17), which is the Word of God. This is why it is so important to be in God's Word every single day...to meditate on truth...and to start to memorize scripture so it is ready on our tongues.

Sunday night we talked about the importance of using note cards to write down verses that speak against the issues that we are currently facing. Those note cards should go with you everywhere you go, so you can pull them out throughout the day and be reminded of God's truth over your life. The more you read the cards, the quicker the verses will get down into your heart. I made the joke in class that in the moment that Satan comes and speaks some lie into your heart, you can't say, "Hold on Satan, let me find the card that speaks to that issue!" You have to be ready for the attack with the Word of God already planted in your heart and mind.

It is also important to note that Satan came to Jesus when he was the most vulnerable. He was alone in the wilderness and he was extremely hungry. Your church attendance is so important, but simply attending is not enough. You have to get plugged in to a small group where you can be taught God's Word and you can be held accountable for its application in your life. We gain strength from being in constant fellowship with other Christians and from hearing God's Word taught throughout the week.

Jesus was extremely hungry... We have to be careful not to give in to temptation or beat ourselves up emotionally when we are hungry, tired, stressed out, etc. It is in those moments of weakness that Satan will come and whisper lies into our hearts.

Study God's Word every day and don't accept defeat. In Christ we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). We just have to start living like that is true!

Until next time...