Then Jesus, full of and controlled by the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led in [by] the [Holy] Spirit for (during) forty days in the wilderness (desert), where He was tempted (tried, exceedingly) by the devil.
We learn from today's verses that immediately after Jesus was baptized in the Holy Spirit, He was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit, to be tempted by the devil for forty days and nights. That was probably a very difficult experience, but Jesus promptly obeyed the Spirit's leading. He trusted the Holy Spirit, knowing even the difficulties he would face would work out for His good in the end.
At the end of the forty days in the wilderness, Jesus began His public ministry, as we see in Luke 4:14: Then Jesus went back full of and under the power of the [Holy] Spirit into Galilee, and the fame of Him spread through the whole region round about (AMPC). Jesus not only had to be willing to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit into power and fame; He also had to be willing to follow Him into difficult times, times of trial and testing.
Obeying God in difficult times helps develop godly character. Jesus set an example for us that we should follow. Following the leadership of the Holy Spirit during seasons of hardship develops faithfulness, determination, and strength in us—qualities God wants us to have.
God has given us the Holy Spirit to help us fulfill His plans for our lives. Sometimes, we must encounter difficulties in order to develop the character we need in order to do what God has planned. We must always remember we never face anything—difficulties or good times—alone. The Holy Spirit is always with us to help us and His ways are always the best.
Prayer of the Day: Holy Spirit, help me follow Your leading, even through hard times. Thank You that I am never alone, and that You are developing my character through it all.
