Recognize Deception

A Deal You Can Refuse

Luke 4:5-7 (NIV®)
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, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours.” 

Satan is an archangel who led a rebellion against God. It isn’t explicitly stated in Scripture, but I think he wanted the position that Jesus had. Now Jesus is on the earth, incarnate, and Satan is offering Him a bargain: “I’ve wanted Your place since the beginning. Now You worship me.” He’s inviting Jesus to idolatry, to divert worship away from where it belongs. His bait is showing Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. Jesus was present at creation and saw our world in its unfallen splendor. Satan shows Him our fallen world and broken humanity—the trash heap—and says, “I will give you all of this if you’ll just worship me.” When you are battling temptation, do not forget its deceptive nature. It is a fraud, and it promises what it cannot deliver. 

THINK ABOUT IT
Internalizing what Scripture promises to those who follow Jesus can help us recognize the deception of the world’s baited invitations and prevent much heartache and spiritual harm. 

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, forgive me for when I have been deceived by worldly enticements. Help me to worship You alone by diligently seeking to know both Your Word and perspective on my life. Then help me to guard my heart against deception. In Jesus’ name, amen

Source:  Today With Pastor Allen Jackson Daily Devotional World Outreach Church