Slices
Prepare
Which Bible verses have spoken most powerfully to you? Give thanks for the light you have found in the Word of God over the years.
Bible passage
Jesus is tested in the wilderness
4 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 After fasting for forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.’
4 Jesus answered, ‘It is written: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’
5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the highest point of the temple. 6 ‘If you are the Son of God,’ he said, ‘throw yourself down. For it is written:
‘“He will command his angels concerning you,
and they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.”’
7 Jesus answered him, ‘It is also written: “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”’
8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendour. 9 ‘All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.’
10 Jesus said to him, ‘Away from me, Satan! For it is written: “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”’
11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
Explore
Quoting scripture seems almost to have become unacceptable in our day, rather than being seen as some beautiful, non‑threatening words of encouragement. As supporters of organisations such as Scripture Union, we value the words of all scripture highly, as I believe Jesus did. They bring light to us and direct our steps in life, and so we have committed to follow God’s ‘righteous laws’ (Psalm 119:105,106).
The use of the challenge ‘If’ from the devil (v 3) is designed to cast doubt in the mind, but Jesus’ response is a confident use of the Word of God. ‘It is written’ (v 4) suggests both a deep respect and a clear knowledge of the Old Testament on Jesus’ part. In our world, where challenges to the Scriptures are common, even from within the church, we need to hold fast. We need to know and be able to use the Word of God confidently and with wisdom. Jesus’ example here is not just about handling temptation but also correctly handling the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Respond
Pray for those who will teach, preach and share the Word of God in your context. Memorise Hebrews 4:12 for yourself: ‘For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.’
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Zechariah 13,14; Revelation 21
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for Fundraising Manager Kathy Brooks as, at the start of the year, she seeks God’s guidance on the best way to manage the fundraising team. Join her in praying that God will continue to provide the finances for ministry.
