If thou be the Son of God—Powerful Truths on the Jesus’ Temptation
And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. (Matthew 4:3, KJV)
The mysteries of spiritual warfare are hidden in the phrase, “If thou be the Son of God.” Satan’s words to Jesus reveal his strategy—attacking the most valuable aspects of our lives. Let’s explore three powerful truths from this phrase that will transform your perspective on spiritual warfare.
1. Satan Attacks What God Has Spoken
Satan said, “If thou be the Son of God” (Matthew 4:3), just days after God had declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17, KJV).
Satan’s strategy is to challenge what God has spoken. This was no accident. In the Garden of Eden, he tempted Eve by questioning God’s words: “Yea, hath God said…?” (Genesis 3:1, KJV).
What has God spoken to you? The Word over your life will always attract attacks because Satan knows it is your greatest asset.
2. Satan Attacks Your Identity
Satan cast doubt on Jesus’ identity, questioning, “If thou be the Son of God.” You might think, That was Jesus—how could He doubt? But if doubt weren’t possible, Satan wouldn’t have tempted Him.
Jesus’ identity was rooted in what the Father declared. Though He had always known who He was, hearing the Father’s affirmation sealed it.
God has called you His child, and your identity in Christ is your most valuable possession. No wonder Christians often struggle with doubts about salvation, God’s love, and purpose. Recognize these doubts as the enemy’s attack on your identity.
3. How Does Satan Speak to Us?
Here’s an important question: How did Satan speak to Jesus? Was it an audible voice, like the Father’s, or did Satan appear physically?
Most commentaries overlook this crucial detail, but the Bible doesn’t specify. The two main views are that Satan either appeared in a visible form or spoke internally. If it was a physical appearance, then it would be similar to Eve’s temptation. But if it was internal, then his tactics today are the same—he speaks through thoughts and suggestions.
Understanding this helps us recognize Satan’s voice. Most of us will never see him, but we will hear the same deceptive whispers that Jesus faced. Recognizing his voice is key to victory. For instance, you may never hear Satan’s audible voice, but his voice often comes as doubt or fear in your heart. When you hear it, be sure to recognize who is speaking.
Key Truths to Remember
- God’s Word in your life attracts attacks.
- Satan’s primary target is your identity in Christ. Doubt, fear, and shame are his tools.
- Satan often speaks through thoughts and suggestions. Recognizing his voice is crucial.
Satan won’t necessarily attack your anointing first; he will attack your sense of identity. When doubt and fear cloud who you are, the battle is nearly won. Let these truths equip you to stand firm.
Meditate
What are the three truths discussed above? Can you put them in your own words?
Apply the Word
Are you struggling with doubts about God’s promises for your health, family, or ministry? Recognize the voice speaking to you.
Do you battle guilt, low self-esteem, or question your salvation and God’s love? Again, recognize the source—Satan. Follow Jesus’ example: use the Sword of the Spirit and declare God’s Word over your life to silence him!
Pray
Ask the Holy Spirit for strength to hold onto God’s Word and overcome every attack on your identity.
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- No temptation that comes your way can overpower you
- The Fiercest Spiritual Attack in Human History
- Understanding Jesus’s Victory Over Satan
- Do not be ignorant of Satan’s devices
- We Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood
- View All Deshen Daily Devotionals
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