John 1:15-51; Matthew 4; Luke 4-5 John provided the way, and the crowds flocked because their hearts were hungry to learn and to be forgiven. The religious leaders sent a delegation to ask who he was. He responded: “I am a voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as Isaiah the prophet said.” Further, he said: “I myself have seen, and have testified that this Jesus is the Son of God.”

After this, the evil one transgressed this scene and provided a powerful teaching lesson, so we might ask: Who is the real deliverer and promise keeper? Satan seeks to test our faithfulness to God by providing a condition by which we can be “blessed or delivered.” It is always “if” you will do thus and so. Learn from Jesus how to respond; resist him, use words of scripture and he will flee. Just say, not today Satan!

Beware of Satan’s ploys for success. Jesus never says “if” you do thus and so. Jesus says, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” and follow Him. That is the path to success!

Say yes to Jesus and no to Satan. Who are you following?