Resist the Devil

SCRIPTURE
Matthew 4:11
Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.


OBSERVATION
It is always instructive to look at how Jesus responded to the temptation of the Enemy and to also see how long the Enemy put up a fight! I have heard people yell at the devil many times — but one of the most effective strategies, I think, is this one modeled by Jesus. When the Enemy tempts Him in the wilderness, Jesus does not yell and scream, He simply resists the Devil's attacks by responding with the Word of God. If this is not spiritual warfare, what is?

Further, the devil can only fight for so long! I love this part! He attacks Jesus three times and then leaves.


APPLICATION
The Word of God is our sword -- it is our weapon that is suitable for, as Paul says to Timothy, "reproof, correction and training in righteousness." It is sharp and it is effective. But do I know how to use it? Do I apply the Word when the Enemy attacks? Or do I respond with noisy but not so effective responses? Today, I will use the Word to respond to the attack of the Enemy!

The C3 technique taught in the Battlezone men's discipleship training program is this. When encountering temptation:
1. Call a timeout.
2. Confess the temptation and ask God for the way of escape.
3. Choose to obey the Holy Spirit and walk away from temptation, declaring His Word appropriate to the occasion.

PRAYER
Lord, as I commit even more to hide your Word in my heart, teach me how to use this powerful weapon against the attack of the Enemy. Make me a warrior like Jesus! Amen.