Matthew 4: The Devil Went Down To Jordan

Satan looks for the most opportune time to get you off God's plan.  For Jesus, the devil showed up when He was about to start His ministry, perhaps filled with questions about His role and His mission, and coming at the end of a 40 day fast.  If there was ever a moment of spiritual vulnerability in Jesus' life (short of the Garden of Gethsemane), this was it.

Satan begins his temptations with the familiar, "If you are the Son of God..."  Is Satan trying to get Jesus to doubt Himself?  Is He trying to get Jesus to invoke some divine prerogatives?  

Regardless, Jesus knows how to handle Satan's temptations.  He rebuts each one with scripture.  "Man does not live by bread alone...Do not put the Lord to the test...Worship God only."  He does not waver.  Even though He is tempted like we all are, with putting Himself first over God's call, with gaining praise and adoration from the crowds, and with achieving power, Jesus does not yield.

Satan failed in his attempt to distract Jesus and get Him off His mission.  Would that he would also meet with such failure when he tempts ordinary Christians!  Let us imitate Jesus and develop such a firm grasp of scripture that it is able to help us withstand the devil's snares and temptations.  Reading through the New Testament (as you hopefully are) is a great step in the journey.  That way, when the devil comes down to your town - you will be ready!