Another proactive measure

And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.   Mark 1:12-13


Jesus was on the threshold of glorious ministry.  He was equipped with the gifts that would empower him to accomplish miraculous deeds, and to speak in ways that transformed the hearts and minds of others. Satan was aware of Jesus' potential, and the enticements of Satan were custom fit to tap into some of Jesus' greatest strengths.  The seductive invitations were also presented when Jesus was lonely and hungry, worn down.  


One of my wisest mentors has told me:  Whenever you are on the threshold of doing something magnificent that will glorify God and serve others in amazing ways, you will be under attack.  You may be assaulted from within with doubt or fear.  You may be distracted by your own ego (ie, pride, arrogance) or emotions (fear, doubt,/grandiose ambition).  You may be tempted by external invitations to rely on something (or someone) other than God for power, esteem, or satisfaction.  


Be aware of your areas of strength and giftedness  as well as your points of weakness, hunger or vulnerability.   They are all avenues for temptation's whispers.  


You can try to resist temptation, but there is a better way.  Jesus didn't engage in point-counterpoint debate with Satan.  He returned to God by clinging to God's Word in Scripture.  As you walk these days, don't pretend that temptation doesn't exist.  See it for what it is, and the moment you see it, pray.  Pray in any way at all.  You may be amazed at the strength and support unleashed by simple words like:  "Lord, Have Mercy." or "God, Help Me."    


Reflect and Write: 
You have begun your Lenten Walk.  Only God knows the depth and breadth of what glorious things you may do or say in His Name. 


Take a look around you.  Take a look within you.  Be honest about the vulnerable points you see (there are probably more than you might think!)  Do you see (or even just sense) thoughts, feelings, or inclinations that might be temptation's voice?  


Your awareness of these places will equip you by increasing your dependence upon Christ.  This dependence will help shield you from surprise attacks along the way.