James 1:12

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.


Devotional Thoughts

By David Wilkerson

To discover God's purpose for us in our wilderness trials, we need to examine Christ's experience. However, they are unlike those of the lukewarm or cold-hearted believer. Temptations that were base, having to do with greed, adultery, violence, stealing, drinking, gambling. Those people lived on a lower plain in every sense.

But Jesus stood above it all. He wouldn't be tempted by such gross sin. Because he was righteous, beloved, chosen, his temptations would come at a higher level. They would be far more profound, mysterious, and intense than the base sins of life. His temptations would be in the spiritual realm — and they would have eternal consequences.

The same is true for us today. A truly spiritual person isn't tempted along the lines of gross flesh. For example, he probably wouldn't be tempted to sneak into a bar to drink, or to rent a hotel room to fornicate with a prostitute, or to lust after another man's spouse. Nor would he ever consider gambling, using drugs or cursing.

On the contrary, his daily desire is to draw closer to the Lord. He makes Jesus Lord of his whole life — devouring God's word daily, seeking him in prayer, His soul cries, "Lord, I want to go deeper with you. I want to walk closer to you than ever."

Does this describe you? If so, your temptations will be more like the kind Christ endured. They will have to do with your obedience to God, and with dependence on his word. And Satan will do everything in his power to tempt you. He wants to turn you aside from God's destiny for you. He'll try to undermine your calling, rob you of your anointing, and convince you God's approval and blessing on your life is a lie.