FYI: We will be hiking Castle Rock NEXT THURSDAY at 6:15
INTRODUCTION
It is tempting to feel that God is in no hurry to take care of your needs--like the direction your marriage is headed, the speed at which your career/business is advancing. Jesus too was tempted to take things in His own hands and His response reveals a lot about what is really at stake when we are tempted to act independently of God.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS – Consider; Marriage (family), Health, Finances, Career, Faith
Has there been something that you waited for a long time? How did it feel to have to wait?
Read
Matthew 4:1-4. What was behind the devil's request? Why would it have been a sin for Jesus to turn the rocks into bread?
Read
Deuteronomy 8:1-3. What did God intend to teach the Israelites when He provided manna for them in the wilderness?
When in your life have you met a legitimate need in an improper way? What were the results?
Why is it difficult to wait on God to provide, instead of taking things into your own hands?
Have you ever had a need that you were tempted to take into your own hands, but instead you chose to wait on God? How did God provide?
In what area of your life do you face the most temptation to meet a legitimate need in an irresponsible way?
Read
Deuteronomy 8:10-18. Why is it more tempting to act independently of God when times are good? How can you continue to remind yourself of your dependence on God?
THINK ABOUT IT
Jesus met his temptation by quoting Deuteronomy 6:3. Choose a verse you can memorize this week that is specific to your temptation.WHAT WILL YOU DO?When you are tempted this week to meet a legitimate need in an irresponsible way, pause...and say Deuteronomy 6:3 to yourself, or a verse specific to your temptation.
CHANGING YOUR MIND
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
Matthew 4:4