Jesus went to the wilderness to REST in God, before His ministry (Matthew 4:1).
The devil went to the wilderness to TEST the Lord, before Jesus’ ministry (Matthew 4:1).
Points to ponder:
When we are to begin the ministry, or are in the ministry that God has given unto each one of us, do we take the time to first REST in God? Often we hurry and plan for God himself, not allowing his purposes according to his time to be fulfilled in our lives.
Secondly, when we go to rest in the Lord, we must be aware and beware, always watching and praying, so that we do not fall into temptation, for the devil is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour and those who are resting in the Lord are particularly his targets to test (Mark 14:38; 1 Peter 5:8).
Matthew 4:1 (KJV)
1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Mark 13:38 (KJV)
38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
