Devotion for Friday, March 1, 2024

“But He answered and said, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes out of the mouth of God’” (Matthew 4:4).

O how we are wrapped up in this physical world.  We long for the things of creation and often give scant thought to One Who created all things.  And this is what is true of those who follow Jesus.  How much worse it is for those who do not think of these things at all.  The devil need not bother with them.  The Lord has spoken, and our life is dependent upon the word He speaks.  We need more than a simple devotion; listen to Him Who is the Word of the Lord.

Word made flesh Who fought the devil on our behalf, open my deaf ears to hear Your word.  Let Your word sink into my heart, pierce it, and resurrect in us Your life in the power of the Holy Spirit.  We are weak and look for the many varieties of bread in this world without looking to You.  Guide us always to listen to Your word and obey all that You have commanded.

Lord Jesus, in weakness, You have prevailed.  While weak, You took on the devil and prevailed.  After death on the cross, you prevailed with the resurrection.  I am weak, and You have given me the ability to prevail, not with power, but in weakness.  Help me to take up my cross and follow You all the days of my life.  Lead me, Lord, weak though I am, knowing that You have already prevailed for me.  Amen.