For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:15 NIV
So how was Jesus tempted?
Luke 4 gives us an inside look….
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.Luke 4:1-2 NIV
Jesus was tempted when he was full of the Holy Spirit. Satan does not just tempt us when we are spiritually weak. “He was hungry” Satan often tempts us when we are physically weak.
The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” Luke 4:3 NIV
Satan knows that mankind is driven by physical impulses. As Christians, we are wise to acknowledge this as well. When we are hungry or cold or sick for example, Satan will often target us and tempt us to set our minds on those things rather than more important spiritual matters. These are times when we are much more likely to make poor choices and sin.
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone. Luke 4:4 NIV
We can learn from Jesus’ response that in those moments we MUST remember that there are more important things to focus on than the physical impulse within us that is screaming to be satisfied. It’s critical that we learn to control our appetites! I guess that’s why Jesus said we must deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him.
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.” Luke 4:5-7 NIV
When tempting Jesus, I assume Satan was hitting the areas that, in his human state, he would be most vulnerable. If so, it’s safe to assume that there is an inherent desire in all men to enjoy the benefits of power (authority) and splendor. That so fits with the Bible’s teaching on the spiritual danger of pride!
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'” Luke 4:8 NIV
To keep Satan from successfully tempting us with power and splendor we must intentionally focus our attention and energy on God alone. Worship and service to God must ALWAYS be the motivating factor in our lives, never our own advancement.
The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Luke 4:9-11 NIV
In this third attempt of Satan to cause Jesus to sin, we realize that mankind has in inherent need to question God’s word and require proof. We are wise to recognize God’s supreme authority and trust His word, simply because it is HIS word. In those moments when you find yourself questioning a promise of God or having trouble believing that the promise applies to your life, recognize this as temptation that Satan is placing before you.
Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Luke 4:12 NIV
We are far less vulnerable to temptation when we resolve to take God’s word at face value and choose to believe in God’s faithfulness, especially when our circumstances make it seem like His word does not apply to our situation. If you want to study a man who mastered this, take a look at Joseph in the old testament.
When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time. Luke 4:13 NIV
Never let your guard down, if Satan did not give up after failing to knock Jesus off track, he’s not going to give up on us either. We will battle temptation until the day we die! But remember that Jesus was also tempted in the same ways as we are, but He won every battle. Next time you’re struggling with temptation, recognize it’s source and cry out to Jesus for help because he is able to empathize with our weaknesses.