Discover Jesus as the Standard for MasculinitySample

Day 3 Jesus Has a Plan

Jesus enters His public ministry with His baptism in the Jordan. Jesus immediately departs for the wilderness. Here He will fast for 40 days. Fasting for 40 days requires incredible discipline, self-control, and commitment. We can receive a key from Jesus: He is not acting spontaneously. He has a plan to go into the wilderness after His baptism.

Jesus removes Himself from temptation. He does not enter His fast surrounded by distractions and temptations. He separates Himself from the view of things that could compromise His plan. Jesus departs for the wilderness. Separation is a key to preparation.

Jesus is in a physically vulnerable state when Satan arrives to tempt Him. Fueled by devotion to His Father and His mission, He rejects the offer of food, power, and praise.

Living life with clarity of purpose comes from knowing our identity and calling. Waking up daily and 'going with the flow' will never lead to a life that overcomes. You must know your identity to fulfill your destiny, purpose, and calling. How did Jesus overcome the devil? He does not waver in who He is or what He came to do. He knows His purpose.

We overcome in the same manner. We must know our true identity. God's will is for you to understand your purpose and be unshakeable in who Jesus says you are. You are called to be an overcomer; Jesus overcame with the Word of God. Jesus is the Word made flesh. Each time He is tempted, He responds by saying, "It is written…" Jesus lets the Word answer the attack of the enemy. When we know the Word, we can use it against the enemy when we are tempted. The Word is our spiritual sword to take the offensive position.

You are called to be in the world and not of it. Part of that call means you are to carry light everywhere you go. It does not mean that you avoid engaging with culture. We don't live based on a fear of temptations. Temptations will always be present. There is wisdom in being self-aware of those things that easily beset us. My battle with sin and temptation may differ from your battle. We can build a plan to avoid unhealthy desires when we are aware of them.

1. Can you identify two areas in your life where you are easily tempted?
2. How can you incorporate planning to remove yourself from temptations?