Am I fully Am I fully prepared prepared

for battle?for battle?

Luke 4:1-13 Luke 4:1-13 Matthew 4:1-11Matthew 4:1-11

When will life get back to When will life get back to normal?normal?

1. Trials are ordained by GodThen Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Matthew 4:1

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. Luke 4:1-2

Immediately the Spirit impelled Him to go out into the wilderness. Mark 1:12

When will life get back to When will life get back to normal?normal?

1. Trials are ordained by God

2. Temptations are caused by Satan, our flesh, and the world order

Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. James 1:13

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit… to be tempted by the devil. Matthew 4:1

Is there a target on my back?Is there a target on my back?

“You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:13-14

Is there a target on my back?Is there a target on my back?

1. Lust of the flesh (physical appetite for pleasure or comfort) – Luke 4:1-4

2. Lust of the eyes (desire to possess at no personal cost) – Luke 4:5-8

3. Pride of life (ambition for prestige or significance) – Luke 4:9-13

Is there hope for victory?Is there hope for victory?

1. Anticipate Satan’s strategies

2. Consecrate yourself to God’s purposes

3. Train for battle

Reflection QuestionsReflection Questions

• What strategies does Satan use to discourage you and tempt you to sin?

• Knowing Satan’s strategies and your own vulnerabilities, how can you “train” more effectively?

• How does the example of Christ offer instruction in your own battle?