Dear Church,

As we saw yesterday in Mark 1:12–13, Jesus was driven into the wilderness for forty days to be tempted by Satan. Not gently led. Not calmly guided. Mark’s word is strong, almost forceful like being cast out, the same kind of word later used when Jesus casts out demons. Jesus rises from baptism with heaven open, the Spirit descending, and the Father’s voice saying, “You are My beloved Son.” And then, immediately, He’s pushed into the wilderness. Here’s the point: The Spirit wasn’t abandoning Jesus. The Spirit was positioning and preparing Jesus.

Here’s the comfort for us, the wilderness is not evidence of God’s absence, but often proof of His purpose. Sometimes the holiest moments are followed by the hardest battles, not because God is done with you, but because He’s preparing and positioning you for greater works. And when you find yourself in a wilderness season, remember this: Jesus has been there. He understands. He stands with you. Hebrews 4:15 says, “He was tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin.” That means when you’re in the wilderness, you are not alone, and you are not misunderstood by your Savior and through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit you can stand kept and victorious.

Be Encouraged,
Mathews