New Life Church in Oak Grove, MO

Sunday, February 23
Welcome to New Life! We hope this message encourages you as you grow in your faith, reach your community, and become like Jesus.
Locations & Times
New Life Church, Oak Grove
801 SW 1st St, Oak Grove, MO 64075, USA
Sunday 9:00 AM
Sunday 11:00 AM
Overcoming Temptation
Pastor Todd Blansit
New Life Church
February 23, 2024
Pastor Todd Blansit
New Life Church
February 23, 2024
Like Jesus, we will face wilderness moments and trials that test our faith, challenges that tempt us to compromise, and battles that seem impossible to win.
God often allows us to go through difficult seasons not to destroy us but to strengthen us.
The Temptation of Provision
The devil said, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” (Luke 4:3)
The devil said, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” (Luke 4:3)
Here, Jesus teaches us a powerful lesson: Our deepest need is not physical but spiritual. In our own struggles, we are often tempted to satisfy temporary needs at the cost of eternal truths. We may face financial hardship, relationship difficulties, or emotional hunger, but true fulfillment comes only from God.
The Temptation of Power and Glory
The devil then showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and said, “I will give you all their authority and splendor… if you worship me.” (Luke 4:5-7)
The devil then showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and said, “I will give you all their authority and splendor… if you worship me.” (Luke 4:5-7)
Yet, He chose to be baptized to fully identify with humanity.
This is a reminder that Jesus walks with us. He doesn’t stay distant. He steps into our world and meets us where we are.
How comforting is that?
Whatever you’re facing today, Jesus understands. He’s not watching from the sidelines He’s right there with you.
This is a reminder that Jesus walks with us. He doesn’t stay distant. He steps into our world and meets us where we are.
How comforting is that?
Whatever you’re facing today, Jesus understands. He’s not watching from the sidelines He’s right there with you.
The Temptation of Testing God
Finally, the devil took Jesus to the temple and said, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is written: ‘He will command His angels concerning you…’” (Luke 4:9-11)
Finally, the devil took Jesus to the temple and said, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is written: ‘He will command His angels concerning you…’” (Luke 4:9-11)
Worship is about our heart’s attention.
In times of struggle, we too may be tempted to demand signs from God to test His faithfulness by saying, “If You really love me, prove it.” But faith is trusting in God’s promises even when we don’t see immediate results.
This is our greatest weapon. When we face temptations, doubts, and struggles, the truth of Scripture anchors us.
This is what happens when we endure our trials with faith. The wilderness does not weaken us it refines us, strengthens us, and prepares us for the purpose God has for us.
So stand firm. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Victory is already yours in Christ.
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