Embrace His Life on Earth
His Humanity – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Hebrews 4:12-16

Key Verse: Hebrews 4:15

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet was without sin.

I ended yesterday’s devotional with a question: How was Jesus so successful in defeating temptation?  If it was because of His divine nature, then you and I can’t relate much to that.  But if Jesus, being fully limited by taking on human nature, defeated temptation with the same tools that are available to you and me, then that is important to understand.  By studying the temptations of Jesus in Matthew 4:1-11, we can determine that Jesus did indeed use what we can use to defeat the devil.

            First, Jesus understood the power available to Him by His Father in heaven.  Do you realize the power available to you by your Father in heaven?  Do you cave into temptation, thinking you just can’t help yourself?  To defeat the devil we must first understand that we can by being a child of God.  Memorize this verse and use it during your next temptation: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

            The second method Jesus used was quoting scripture to the temptation.  It was scripture that gave Jesus victory over temptation, not simply because He was the Son of God.  We read scripture every day—bite size portions.  Write down the promises that you come across.  Remember, when the temptations come, use the scripture you’ve hidden in your heart.

Father, I will live victorious today, not because I’m strong enough, but because you are.  Thank you for living in me!  In Jesus’ name, amen.