The Wilderness Journey

“Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness.”

Today’s passage leads us into Jesus’s wilderness journey. This experience came after his baptism and anointing as the Son of God and prior to the start of his ministry. For Jesus, the journey through the wilderness was an opportunity to confirm his identity as the Son of God and to be led by the Holy Spirit, two foundational aspects of his life and ministry on earth.

Where Adam and Eve failed in combating the enemy’s lies and deceptions, Jesus succeeded. Jesus went toe-to-toe with the devil, being tempted three times to go against God’s will. Jesus did not use cunning words and eloquent speech to dispel the enemy’s tests. Jesus relied on time spent in the Temple, learning the Father’s way. Jesus pressed into the truth of God’s Word, and it was through God’s Word that the enemy’s attacks were deflected and rendered useless.

All of us will embark on wilderness experiences where life will be a challenge. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33) You will go through trials. Your faith will be tested. You will experience the temptation to exchange truth for a lie. You will go through hardships that will require you to decide, “my way or Jesus’s way.” If we choose our own way, like Adam and Eve, we will walk the path of death. If we choose Jesus’s way, we will walk the path of life.

As we walk into the wilderness, the Holy Spirit desires to lead us. The Spirit leads us back to God’s Word. The Word of God is implanted in our hearts when we spend time in his presence and in Scripture. In sports, we learn that a good defense is a strong offense. A strong spiritual offense is developed through practice and intentionality. As we prepare for those wilderness experiences, let us spend time with the Father, being affirmed in our identity as his beloved, and let us trust the Spirit’s leading as we walk along the way.

Jesus, as I walk in the wilderness, lead me by your Spirit. Help me to lean not on my own understanding but help me trust in your ways by submitting to you and your Word. Amen.

ISAAC LEE
Continuing Education Program Manager for the Faith & Sports Institute
Doctor of Ministry Student
Waco, Texas