The Gospel of MatthewNäide

Temptation Before the Breakthrough

I’ve often found that temptation comes right before something significant is about to happen. It’s like a final hurdle before the victory lap. In Matthew 4, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness—not to avoid temptation, but to face it head-on. After forty days of fasting, the enemy shows up, hoping to derail Jesus before He begins His public ministry.

Temptation often shows up the same way in our lives—right before a spiritual breakthrough, a new assignment, or a step of obedience. It’s the donut before the diet milestone, the discouragement before the calling, the compromise before the commitment. But Jesus shows us the way through: He resists not by strength alone, but by the Word of God. Three times, He answers the enemy with Scripture.

When we’re tired, isolated, or preparing for something meaningful, the enemy will whisper lies. But God’s truth is stronger. Temptation may be a pothole, but the Word is the map that keeps us moving forward.

Respond to God’s Word:

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you resist temptation like Jesus did—with God’s Word on your heart and lips. Prepare now for the victory that lies just ahead.