On this first Sunday of Lent, we walk with Jesus into the wilderness. In the Gospel of Matthew, we read that Jesus was “led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” This wilderness experience was meant to prepare Jesus for ministry.
Lent is a season of sanctifying grace — a time when the Spirit searches our hearts and strengthens our relationship with Him. Our wilderness experience becomes holy ground as we encounter Him.
In the wilderness, Jesus faces three temptations: (1) to turn stones into bread, (2) to test God’s protection, and (3) to hold on to worldly power. Each temptation tries to lure Jesus to choose self-sufficiency over dependence on God, self-reliance over obedience, and control over surrender. Yet each time, Jesus responds to the temptations with Scripture. Jesus knows His identity as the Son of God.
Our wilderness may not look like desert sands. It may look like anxiety about the future, tension in relationships, or struggles with lust, envy, or pride. Lent gently reveals where we are tempted to rely on ourselves instead of on God.
The good news is this: we do not enter the wilderness alone. The same Spirit who led Jesus leads us. The same Word that strengthened Him strengthens us. And because Jesus has already overcome temptation, we walk not toward defeat but toward resurrection.
Reflection:
Where am I testing God rather than trusting God?
Which area am I struggling to surrender to Jesus?
Let this be a week of honest self-examination. Fast from whatever distracts you from hearing God’s voice. Read Scripture daily. Attend worship services and fellowship with other believers. Trust that even in barren and dry places, God’s grace is at work.