KNOW THE WORD
Today's reading: Luke 3-4

I won't consider it a coincidence that the same lesson I studied and presented to the kids on Wednesday night is repeated in my Bible reading this morning.
I'm not surprised.

I really kind of expected it.

Why? Well, because I'm a slow learner. I don't catch onto things of a spiritual nature quickly. I have a lot to unlearn. I am, oh, how shall I put it--stubborn and set in my ways.

Hence, a repeat lesson. A review of the material. A quiz over previously discussed issues.

Jesus was in the desert after having fasted 40 days. He was human, so he was weak, tired and hungry. Satan noticed his state and moved in for attack. You see, satan keeps close tabs on our spiritual condition. Jesus was making a commitment to draw closer to His Father--and satan didn't like it one bit. Been there, haven't you?

Satan presented Jesus with some temptations that could have easily toppled the strongest of Christians. You have to understand, satan plays the same cards now that he did then. There's nothing new in his gamebook. He cannot come up with any 'trickier' tricks than he's always tried.

But Jesus? Jesus had been in the Word. Jesus had had his nose in the Scriptures. Jesus had made an effort not just to 'know where His Bible was', but to apply it to memory for times just like this.

And that? Well, that's the lesson I'm having to repeat. I'm not making the choice to hide His Word in my heart for times when satan comes calling. I'm not choosing to know the promises of the Bible on a personal level. I'm haphazardly meddling in the appetizers of Scripture and not getting out a steak knife and digging into the meat He's providing.

I told you, I'm a slow learner...a slow learner who is so very thankful I'm cared for by a patient Savior!