The book of Hebrews counsels us to come to God for grace in times of need through the ministry of Jesus, our great High Priest, who can sympathize with us in our weaknesses. But, was he really tested in all things as we are? Is His humanity genuine? When tested, how did He respond? Examining the Gospel account of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness helps us answer these questions. It directs us toward how we should learn to pursue obedience through Jesus in the power of the Spirit.

Application Questions

• Have you meditated on the reality that Jesus experienced the fullness of human frailty?
• When you experience times of trial or testing, do you see them as God’s gift to you as a means to draw you closer to Himself through Christ?
• Do you believe that Jesus can have genuine compassion for you in your trials?
• Do you fight temptation with Scripture? What is preventing you from doing so?
• Do you trust God enough to allow His timing to reign in your circumstances?
• Are you tempted to take matters into your own hands rather than trusting in God to provide during times of difficulty?

The Gospel accounts of Jesus' response to John's call to be baptized alongside His Jewish countrymen highlight His faithful obedience to the word of God through the power of the Spirit. In His baptism, we see God the Father's approval of His faithfulness and the provision of the Holy Spirit to prepare Him for His ministry of gospel proclamation. Meditating on these episodes motivates us to entrust ourselves to the power of the Spirit to obey His Word.

Application Questions

• When you hear God’s Word, do you have a firm resolve to obey it?
• Are you aware of the Spirit at work within you to strengthen you to obey God’s Word consistently?
• Are you waiting expectantly for the next step in God’s plan to bring righteousness to earth through His kingdom?
• How well do you know the Old Testament? What is your plan for becoming more familiar with it?
• When was the last time you consciously decided to walk in obedience to God? How did you discern when and how to act?
• In what ways are you living your life dependent upon the Spirit? In what ways can you grow in your relationship and dependence upon Him?

In Isaiah 42 and 49, the first two "Servant Songs," we see two primary goals of Jesus as the Messiah that motivate and encourage Him to overcome difficulties. Jesus' mission involved overcoming obstacles to bring God’s justice and salvation to the nations. Jesus' strength and perseverance were rooted in the Spirit, enabling Him to confront injustice without despair and bring the light of salvation to Israel and the world.

Application Questions

• In what areas of your life are you encountering injustice? How are you responding?
• What encouragement can you gain from meditating on how Jesus the Messiah encountered the opposition He faced?
• Why do you think justice is important to the Spirit of God?
• When you grow weary, do you find strength in the gospel?
• Are you struggling with despair or depression? Will you bring your burdens to a Suffering Servant who knows how to minister to you in your weakness?
• Will you recommit yourself to the mission of Jesus – the proclamation of His glorious gospel of salvation?