Home > Reading > The Daily Lectionary – September 28, 2016

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Today’s readings: Esther 6:1–14; Acts 19:1–10; Luke 4:1–13

My first thought as I read about the temptation of Jesus is: Why would the devil waste his time to tempt Jesus? He knew who Jesus was and that he would not give in to temptations.

Why did Satan tempt Jesus? The devil was trying to end Jesus ministry even before it started, and in doing so, discredit Jesus and his saving ministry. The devil does that to us as well. As followers of Christ, we have the opportunity to help millions become part of the kingdom of God by telling his story. Christ even said we can do it because the Advocate will assist us in this task.

How did Satan tempt Jesus? He tempted Jesus in the flesh—food instead of fasting. The devil tempts us to overeat, to be lazy, to be selfish, and to live impure lives. He tries to use our God-given desires against us. So we break the commandment—to love him with all our hearts, souls, and minds. So today, spend some time confessing any sin these verses reveal, and ask the Lord to give you strength and the desire to follow him when you are faced with temptations.

Prayer: Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy on my soul. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Dieter Punt, Pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Troutman, NC.

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Tomorrow’s readings: Esther 7:1–10; Acts 19:11–20; Luke 4:14–30