FROM TODAY’S READING (1/11/2022)…
“Willful swan dives test the Lord…rationalizing a headstrong plunge by saying, ‘If this works, God will receive great glory. Just think of the souls that will be saved. God, you have to be in this—you just have to!’ True, he specializes in picking up the pieces, but we must not test him through rationalized disobedience.”
R. Kent Hughes
Luke 4:9-13 (NLT) Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, ‘He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.’”
Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the Lord your God.’”
When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came.
Hebrews 2:18 (NLT) Since [Jesus] himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.
Ephesians 5:15-17 (NLT) So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
Image: ("Landscape with the Temptation of Christ LACMA 81.1" by Fæ is licensed under CC BY 2.0)
