READING: Luke 4-6
Read different versions of Luke 4:13—a text about the devil leaving Jesus after the encounter in the wilderness temptations—and here’s what you’ll find:
- “After the devil had finished every temptation, he departed from him for a time” (CSB)
- “. . . he departed from him until an opportune time” (ESV)
- “. . . he departed from him for a season” (KJV)
- “. . . he left him until the next opportunity came” (NLT)
Regardless of the wording, the point is the same: the devil may have lost that battle, but he would be back. The enemy was not done, and he would continually oppose Jesus—especially evident in the events surrounding the death of Jesus. Satan simply does not give up easily.
I’m reminded today that (1) the enemy who was brazen enough to come after Jesus is surely coming after me, too, and (2) any victory I have today is no guarantee I won’t be in battle again tomorrow (or even later today). Moment-by-moment, I must rely on the Spirit. At the same time, though, I’m also reminded that Jesus who defeated the devil is my Lord. As Christ-followers, you and I are on the winning side.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Do you ever let your guard down after a victory?
PRAYER: “God, help me to know Your Word so well that I can quote it in temptation.”
MONDAY’S READING: Luke 7-8