“The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world.  And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to.  If you worship me, it will all be yours.”

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” (Luke 4:5-8)

     The devil attempted to lure Jesus into worshipping him instead of God, and somehow this would result in the establishment of “authority and splendor” over all nations for Jesus.  This was quite contrary to how it was supposed to work, and Jesus could see right through this deception and outright lie.  This might have sounded good, because it was an “easy way out” to achieve a status of honor and glory instead of the need for Jesus to provide himself as the sacrificial lamb on the cross.  You and I know that the devil’s plan wouldn’t have worked at all. The world is in a mess right now, but it will pale in comparison to how it would be if the devil had his way.

     One of the ways we are tempted is to be introduced to achieving a desirable goal but pursing it in the wrong way.  Just one example among many would be if we were to cheat on an exam in high school or college.  Even if we got by with it, our knowledge base would be greatly compromised as we pursue our careers, and it wouldn’t work out very well.  Honesty and hard work are still virtues! 

     Let’s pray that we do not yield to temptation when something looks too good to be true, and we know in our hearts that it isn’t.  Following Jesus isn’t the easiest way, but it’s the right way.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I want to trust in you above all the trappings of this world.  Help me to keep my mind clear and put my heart in the right direction, because I know that you will lead me down the right path.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.