In my wilderness experience, wrestling with the temptation to find comfort and safety in something other than God is a daily battle. For me, this is a form of idolatry. It is easy at times to turn to things like research, screens, busyness… taking on a project, or starting something new to distract myself from the discomfort of this season. I must admit I find security when my savings account has money in it, and feel safe when the daily markers of health are in range. 

Jesus was no stranger to temptation. He wrestled in the wilderness too. Like when the enemy offered bread to soothe Jesus’ aching hunger, or an escape from the discomfort by taking a jump.

Jesus’ reply to the third temptation draws my attention.

Next the devil took him to the peak of a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. “I will give it all to you,” he said, “if you will kneel down and worship me.”

“Get out of here, Satan,” Jesus told him. “For the Scriptures say,

‘You must worship the Lord your God
 and serve only him.’”
_{Matthew 4:8-10 NLT}

Jesus’ reply to temptation was simple.

Get out of here!
Go away!
Be gone!
Beat it!

I’ve been practicing my own version this week. Especially when I notice I am turning toward something other than God to provide comfort and security.

I whisper
or sometimes yell

DON’T TOUCH ME!

It feels good to speak to temptation with authority and firmly take my stand. It’s even better to know I worship a God who is faithful to show me when I’m spiraling or turning towards a powerless idol that will never lead to true safety and comfort.

In a world where I have very little control, I can choose what, or should I say who, I will worship. I can be open to the things that renew my mind and redirect my thoughts toward heavenly things. Like Jesus, I can boldly speak, “Don’t touch me!”

In Christ, I can.

 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ,who gives me strength. 
_{Philippians 4:12-13 NLT}