I Will Not

Wednesday, November 13

I Will Not

But Jesus answered him, saying, ‘It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. Luke 4:4

Have you ever been truly hungry—hungry to the point of weakness? Jesus knew what that felt like. After fasting for 40 days, He was vulnerable, physically drained, and in that moment, the devil came to tempt Him. Imagine the scene: Satan, seeing an opportunity, approaches Jesus with smug confidence, taunting Him, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”

But Jesus, even in His weakened state, responded with strength. He said, “No! Man shall not live by bread alone.” Jesus didn’t give in to the enemy’s offer to misuse His power for personal comfort. He resisted because He came to show us the path through temptation, not around it.

The enemy often strikes when we’re at our weakest. When we’re tired, lonely, or struggling, he comes with twisted offers, preying on our legitimate needs but presenting illegitimate ways to fulfill them. He tempts us to take shortcuts or find relief in things that ultimately bring harm. We all have desires for happiness, security, connection, and comfort, but Satan offers counterfeit ways to meet these needs—ways that lead to guilt, shame, and emptiness.

Jesus teaches us how to overcome these twisted offers. He shut down the devil in two specific ways: He acted immediately, and He spoke truth. Jesus didn’t entertain the thought; He said “No!” firmly and without delay. Then, He quoted Scripture, grounding Himself in God’s truth. He knew His purpose and identity, so He didn’t need what Satan was offering.

The same is true for us. When Satan whispers lies about our worth or purpose, we need to know the truth about who we are in Christ. When he tempts us with counterfeit fulfillment, we can shut him down by declaring, “No! I will not satisfy my needs in ways that compromise my integrity.” Remember, Satan’s twisted offerings may seem appealing, but they lead to bondage, not freedom.

The devil has tempted you with some twisted offerings. But they’re not right. Your spirit knows that. Declare right now, just as Jesus did, I will NOT meet my legitimate needs and desires in illegitimate ways. No, Satan. I know the truth! I am not fooled.

Prayer for today: Lord, thank You for showing me through Jesus’ example that I don’t have to give in to temptation. Help me recognize when the enemy is offering me something that will only lead to hurt and regret. Give me the strength to say “No” immediately and to stand on Your truth. Show me the right way to meet my needs and fulfill my desires. May Your Word be my shield and my guide. I declare that I will not be deceived by Satan’s lies. In Jesus’ name, Amen.