Day 71 - FOUNDATION STONES IN A YEAR
Reading: Matthew 16: 21 - 28
Satan: the tempter
This was not the first time that Jesus had faced a full frontal attack from Satan. He is a key, though often hidden, antagonist throughout the story of Jesus.
When Jesus was first declared to be God’s Son, the Messiah, Satan immediately tried to get in on the act in order to prevent or pervert that special calling that Jesus had from God. He did so by tempting him after he had fasted 40 days in the wilderness. Satan failed at that time and the Bible says he went away and waited for another ‘opportune’ moment. That time came, as Jesus prepared to go up to Jerusalem to face execution. As Jesus began explaining to his friends and followers what awaited him in Jerusalem, one of his closest friends, Peter, objected. Immediately Jesus discerned the familiar voice of the tempter, Satan, and he in turn, rebuked him.
Note the ways of Satan. When it comes to the things of God, he will try to get you to disbelieve and disobey. His methods are powerful, his timing is impeccable; don’t underestimate your enemy.
Prayer
Father, thank you for teaching me about the enemy of my soul. I see he often disguises himself as my friend and pretends concern for my well-being – but he ‘does not have in mind the things of God’. Help me to discern whenever this happens.
For the family
During this month, watch Season 1 of The Chosen together