The last temptation of Jesus as Matthew records it (4:8-10) is a presentation by Satan to Jesus of all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. They are offered as a gift to Jesus if he will simply fall down and worship Satan. What we discover is that Satan cannot command Christ’s worship, but Jesus can command the devil’s dismissal. Jesus tells him to go, with the explanation that worship and service are for God only, and he leaves (4:11).
Who do you serve? It is a great question! Jesus is advising us to be absolutely clear about whom we serve. Speaking to those in business, Brad Anderson writes: “Focus on one master, become expert at serving this master, and through the power of the ripple effect, you will wind up serving them all.”
That is great advice for every Christian. If we focus on Jesus, and become and expert at serving Him, He will show us how we are to serve our family, our friends, our community, and our world. And we’ll serve Jesus by serving others.
Lord, is ANYTHING getting in front of my worship and service to You? Help me to realize Your “first-ness” in all things, and that, through the power of Your Spirit in me, I can command the devil’s dismissal.
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