Listen

Next the devil led him to a high place and showed him in a single instant all the kingdoms of the world. The devil said, “I will give you this whole domain and the glory of all these kingdoms. It’s been entrusted to me and I can give it to anyone I want. Therefore, if you will worship me, it will all be yours.”

Jesus answered, “It’s written, You will worship the Lord your God and serve only him.”

Luke 4:5-8

Think

Power. I miss the days when my first thoughts about the word “power” went to people in funny spandex jumpsuits and giant robots… Unfortunately, the word now makes me think about greed, status, and dishonesty.

Our world is filled with messages that sound a lot like Satan’s temptation in this scripture: “Worship (or vote for) me, and I will fulfill promises. Worship (or buy) this newest gadget, and it will improve your life. Worship (or fill in the blank), and you will be better than anyone else.” Satan wants Jesus to bow to him and put God aside.

When we seek power, we tend to put all things ahead of God. Our lives become overloaded and filled with stuff and status. That’s when we realize we have no time or energy for God.

Be strong, strive to be a better person… but don’t allow that idea of power to take over your life. Stop and evaluate the things that are important to you and reflect: did God make the cut?

Michelle Phillips

Pray

God of grace and mercy, forgive me when I choose myself, things, or status over you. Help me to put into perspective the things I want versus the things I need. Help me to see: I need you! Amen.

Go

Love and live this day, knowing that you have the strength of Christ to guide you and keep you during your times of wilderness.