Into the darkness (Lent Devotion) - Monday, March 11
Into the Darkness
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1)
Right before Jesus was to start his full-time ministry, the Spirit led him to the wilderness for 40 days where he would be tempted by Satan. Before I started full-time ministry at Haskell LIGHT, I, too, was tempted by Satan in a dark wilderness.
There were many battles I went through before I started. Satan began whispering to me that I was not going to be able to carry out the ministry I thought God had led me to. Then, my child, at 4 months old, started having seizures. Seeing my child in such distress caused me to have anxiety attacks.
I was left in a dark wilderness. But just as Jesus recited Biblical truth to combat Satan, I was reminded, by the spirit of God, that it was going to be okay. There were times in this darkness I began to think God wasn’t there with me. I was tempted to find answers in worldly places. But time and again, assurance and comfort came from his Word. Through Him, who died for me, I was able to walk through this most difficult time, and it was great preparation for full-time ministry.
Hard times in our lives prepare us for the work God has in front of us. They point us to his Word and strengthen our faith so we can help others to grow in theirs.
As we prepare for the great resurrection of our Savior, let's contemplate his Word and know he is always with us, through every dark wilderness experience and always works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28).
Heavenly Father, we thank you for supportive mentors and those people who walk alongside us in this difficult earthly life. Help us realize that you indeed speak to us through your Word, and when we walk through dark wildernesses you are always with us. Thank you for the sacrifice of your Son for our transgressions. In Jesus' name, Amen.