IF

I can't even imagine what it would have been like to be Jesus at this moment. The son of God, creator of the universe, the one who walked with angels who sang his praises every single day was now face to face with doubt. It struck me as I read this passage that satan got to Jesus the same way he gets to everyone else, his mind. With one tiny little word, IF, he was determined to destroy Jesus' ministry before it even began. "IF you are the son of God..."
The 40 days alone with his father in the desert was a preparation time for his ministry. I'm sure at the end of this time Jesus was psyched and ready to fulfill his destiny on earth. But with one tiny word, I am also sure doubt began to flood his mind - afterall he was human. If Satan could cause Jesus to doubt his very existence as the son of God, then it would be a piece of cake to destroy the salvation of the world. Was the last 40 days spent with his father even worth it? Would he have the courage to die? Would he even be able to convince a people enough to bring him to his death?
I completely understand these feelings. After my intimate moments with God, questions and doubt fill my mind. Was that really God speaking to me or was it me telling myself what I want to hear? Why would God want to spend time with me, afterall I'm not worth much of anything? What if I fail to do what I'm called to do? What if my work is all in vain?
However, Jesus did not linger on that doubt. He spoke the truth and promises of his father and defeated the enemy. He continued to look to his father and in turn was comforted and strengthened. Wow, if only I would not linger on doubt. I would be comforted and in turn strenghened to fulfill my destiny in Christ. This is something I want to strive to do. Thank you Jesus for your example...and your victory.

Created about 2 years ago