What Jesus Did! 'Shortcut or Suffering' — Luke 4:5-8

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Merry Christmas!

We pray the Lord blesses you with the grace of Jesus' presence this Christmas!

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[Continuing his temptation of Jesus,] the devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. "I will give you the glory of these kingdoms and authority over them," the devil said, "because they are mine to give to anyone I please. I will give it all to you if you will worship me."

Jesus replied, "The Scriptures say, 'You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.'"

— Luke 4:5-8 NLT

Key Thought

These verses give us a great demonstration of Jesus' love for us because his crucifixion would not have happened if he had not resisted the devil here. He was offered a shortcut to world dominion, one that would not require his suffering and death. Yet, because of his love for us, he chose the long hard road that led to Golgotha. Jesus would not compromise on this preeminent truth — only God is to be worshiped and honored as God! No matter the risks, costs, or consequences, Jesus reminded us that we are to serve God alone!

Today's Prayer

Father in heaven, only you are the one true living God whose love endures from one generation to another. Give me an undivided heart to serve you wholeheartedly and without rival. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Deuteronomy 13:4
  • Luke 10:25-28
  • 1 John 5:21

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 4:5-8 NLT — "The Scriptures say, 'You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.'"

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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