What Jesus Did! 'Shortcut or Suffering' — Luke 4:5-8

Saturday, February 21, 2015

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Then the devil took Jesus and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. The devil said to Jesus, "I will make you king over all these places. You will have power over them and will get all the glory. It has all been given to me. I can give it to any person I want. I will give it all to you, if you will only worship me." Jesus answered, "It is written {in the Scriptures }: 'You must worship the Lord your God. Serve only him!'"
— Luke 4:5-8 NLT
Illustration of Luke 4:5-8 NLT — "I will make you king over all these places."

Key Thought

This is a great demonstration of Jesus' love for us because his crucifixion would not have happened if he had not resisted the devil here. He is offered a shortcut to world dominion, one that would not require his suffering and death. Yet he chooses the long hard road that leads to Golgotha because of his love for us. Jesus will not compromise on this one truth of truths—only God is to be worshiped and honored as God! No matter the risks, costs, or consequences, Jesus reminds us that we are to serve God alone!

Today's Prayer

Father in heaven, only you are the one true living God whose love endures from one generation to another. Give me an undivided heart to serve you whole-heartedly and without rival. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Deuteronomy 13:4
  • Luke 10:25-28
  • 1 John 5:21

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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