Day 88: Deserts and High Places

Today’s Reading:
Mark 1–2, Psalm 79, Proverbs 29

Today’s Scripture: Mark 1:12 (NLT)
“The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days.”

Devotional:

Why does Lent last for 40 days, and why does it usually involve fasting of some sort? The answer is partly found in the temptation of Jesus. Forty is a significant number in the Bible. Moses was on the mountain with God for 40 days when God gave him the Ten Commandments. The Israelites were sentenced to 40 years of living in the desert for their lack of belief in God’s power to help them conquer the giants in the Promised Land.

Moses was a foreshadowing of the Savior that Israel needed. Israel was called the “son” of God (Hos. 11:1) but did not pass the tests of faithfulness and obedience. Jesus, however, is the perfect Savior who never fails.

But that leaves us with the question—why did Jesus need to be tempted, especially right after God declared His approval when He was baptized by His cousin, John? If the sky split open and the Holy Spirit descended on me like a dove with a confirming voice from heaven, you better believe I would start my ministry later that day!

We get a clue from today’s reading in Proverbs 29:21: “If someone pampers his servant from youth, he will be a weakling in the end.” By enduring the temptation of Satan himself after 40 days with no food or water, Jesus demonstrated the epitome of strength by trusting that His sustenance would come from His Father. He would need every ounce of that sustaining faith to endure the cross for us. The desert was the ultimate training ground, and I’m beyond grateful that the Holy Spirit led Jesus there to prepare Him.

As we continue to observe Lent, let’s remember that we cannot add anything to the work that Jesus did for us. We fast as a reminder of the fact that Jesus gave up more than we can begin to fathom. Move through this season with a heart that is willing to give up anything that comes between you and the One who paid it all.

Let’s live inspired!

Reflection Questions:
1. How can Jesus’ example of strength during temptation inspire your own perseverance during Lent?

2. Is there something the Holy Spirit is asking you to lay down or sacrifice in this season?

Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Jesus, who showed us the way through every wilderness and temptation. Forgive us when we rely on our strength instead of Yours. Help us lean into Your provision and surrender fully to Your plans. Strengthen our faith and deepen our commitment as we walk this season of Lent in remembrance and gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Digging Deeper:

Desert Temptation:
Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness reflect the Israelites’ forty-year journey, testing and refining their trust in God. Unlike Israel, Jesus successfully relied entirely on God’s word, highlighting His role as our perfect Redeemer.

Psalm 79 Context:
Psalm 79 describes a desperate plea for deliverance during times of distress. It reminds us that even in wilderness experiences, turning to God in prayer and trust is essential.

Proverbs 29 Insight:
Proverbs 29 emphasizes the wisdom of humility and discipline. This aligns with Jesus’ humble obedience and discipline during temptation, teaching us to depend on God’s strength rather than our own.