We are all very familiar with Matthew 4 when Jesus fasted forty days and nights and was tempted by the devil. While looking at this I noticed that first Jesus was baptized at the end of chapter 3 and starting with verse 12 of chapter 4 Jesus began His ministry.
I understand that the devil is not all knowing but he can tell when someone has determined in their heart to do God's will. The enemy took notice when Jesus was baptized and started the fast. Jesus may not have just been tempted at the end of His fast but even during it. Was it that the enemy knew that he was in for a rough time if he let Jesus complete the fast? Luke 4:2 makes it appear that Jesus was being tempted through out His fast.
This was given to me as an example for me to pattern my life after. When I feel God calling me to higher heights and deeper depths in Him, the enemy can sense it as well and will do everything to stop me. I must have an bulldog grip and not be moved.
I must keep my focus on what God is wanting me to do and think of how my actions will affect the people around me by me choosing to do or not do what I am being called to. What would happen to/become of me if I try to go straight into the calling God gives me and skip the crucifying of flesh?
Randal Sheppard
