Day 16: Fasting and Overcoming Temptation

by Ron Eivaz, posted in Uncategorized

“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry.” – Matthew 4:1-2

Fasting is a powerful tool for strengthening our spirit and overcoming temptation. When Jesus fasted for forty days in the wilderness, He faced intense temptation from the devil. Yet, He emerged victorious, not because of His physical strength but because of His spiritual preparedness and reliance on God’s Word. Fasting helps us follow Jesus’ example by training our spiritual muscles to resist the enemy and remain steadfast in faith.

On this sixteenth day of fasting, let’s reflect on how fasting equips us to overcome the temptations and trials we face.

The Wilderness Experience

In Matthew 4, we see Jesus led by the Spirit into the wilderness to fast and prepare for His ministry. This was not a coincidence—it was a divine strategy. The wilderness was a place of testing, but it was also a place of empowerment. Through fasting and prayer, Jesus overcame the devil’s schemes and emerged ready to fulfill His purpose.

Our wilderness moments—times of trial, temptation, or testing—are opportunities for spiritual growth. Fasting equips us to stand firm during these moments by sharpening our awareness of God’s presence and strengthening our reliance on Him.

Fasting Weakens the Flesh, Strengthens the Spirit

Fasting humbles us and reminds us of our dependence on God. It weakens the desires of the flesh—our natural inclinations to sin—and strengthens our spirit to resist temptation.

In Galatians 5:16, Paul writes, “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Fasting helps us walk in the Spirit by aligning our hearts with God’s will and teaching us to say no to the things that pull us away from Him.

When we fast, we develop discipline that extends beyond food. This discipline enables us to resist the enemy’s lies, reject harmful habits, and choose obedience to God.

Jesus’ Example of Overcoming Temptation

During His fast, Jesus faced three specific temptations from the devil (Matthew 4:3-10):

  1. Physical Desires: The devil tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread to satisfy His hunger. Jesus responded, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). This reminds us that God’s Word is our ultimate source of sustenance.
  2. Pride and Power: The devil challenged Jesus to throw Himself down from the temple and prove His divinity. Jesus resisted, saying, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God” (Matthew 4:7). This shows us the importance of humility and trusting God’s timing.
  3. Worldly Gain: The devil offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. Jesus declared, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve” (Matthew 4:10). This teaches us to prioritize God above all else.

Each time, Jesus used Scripture to counter the devil’s lies. His example shows us the importance of being grounded in God’s Word and relying on it as a weapon against temptation.

Practical Steps to Overcome Temptation During Fasting

  1. Stay Rooted in Scripture: Spend time reading and meditating on God’s Word daily. Memorize verses that address the specific areas where you face temptation.
  2. Pray for Strength: Ask God to empower you with His Spirit to resist temptation and remain faithful.
  3. Identify Weaknesses: Be honest about the areas where you struggle and bring them to God in prayer. Acknowledge your need for His help.
  4. Use the Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-18 reminds us to put on the full armor of God to stand against the enemy. This includes truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, God’s Word, and prayer.
  5. Stay Accountable: Share your struggles with a trusted friend or mentor who can pray with you and encourage you.

Reflection Questions

  • What temptations or challenges are you facing during this fast?
  • How can you use God’s Word to overcome these temptations?
  • Are there specific areas where you need to surrender to God and ask for His strength?

Fasting is a time of spiritual preparation that equips us to face temptation with confidence and faith. As you continue this journey, trust that God is working in you to strengthen your spirit and guide you through every challenge. Let today be a reminder that His Word is your greatest weapon and that victory is found in Him.

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