THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - INVISIBLE IMPOSTERS
Understanding Satan and the ways he tries to deceive us.
Part 1: Scripture Reading & Reflection (15 minutes)
1. Understanding the Wilderness Experience
Deuteronomy 8:1-16 (NIV)
*“Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land the LORD promised on oath to your ancestors. Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands...”
Reflection:
What does this passage teach us about the purpose of trials and testing?
God uses trials to humble us, test us, and reveal what is in our hearts.
Reflect on how God’s testing is not punitive but purposeful, aiming for our growth and understanding.
How does this relate to the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness?
Jesus’ testing in the wilderness mirrors the experiences of the Israelites in the desert, emphasizing dependence on God and adherence to His Word.
Action Point:
Journal: Write a brief entry about a recent trial you have faced. Reflect on how it might be a test from God to reveal your heart and strengthen your faith.
2. The Role of Satan and Our Response
Job 1:6-12 (NIV)
*“One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. The LORD said to Satan, ‘Where have you come from?’...”
Reflection:
What does Job’s story reveal about Satan’s role and God’s sovereignty?
Satan tests Job’s faith, but ultimately, God is in control and uses these trials to refine and prove Job’s faithfulness.
How should we understand the testing from Satan within the context of God’s covenant with us?
Recognize that while Satan may try to test or deceive us, God’s purpose is to deepen our relationship with Him and affirm His covenant.
Action Point:
Prayer: Ask God to reveal any hidden contracts or expectations you may have that could be influencing your relationship with Him. Pray for a clearer understanding of His unconditional love and grace.
Part 2: Application and Action (10 minutes)
1. Identifying Hidden Contracts
Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)
*“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil...”
Reflection:
How did Satan attempt to shift Jesus from a covenantal to a contractual relationship with God?
Satan tempted Jesus to prove His identity and power, aiming to disrupt His understanding of His unconditional relationship with the Father.
In what ways might you be tempted to turn your relationship with God into a contract rather than a covenant?
Reflect on areas where you might be seeking to “earn” God’s favor or questioning His love based on your performance.
Action Point:
Self-Assessment: List any areas in your life where you feel like you are trying to earn or prove yourself to God. Consider how you can shift these into a grace-based, covenantal perspective.
2. Strengthening Your Covenant Relationship
Luke 22:31-32 (NIV)
*“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail...”
Reflection:
How does Jesus’ intercession for Peter illustrate God’s commitment to us in the face of Satan’s attempts?
Jesus’ prayer for Peter demonstrates God’s unwavering support and commitment, even when we face intense trials.
How can you rely on Jesus’ intercession in your own life?
Embrace the assurance that Jesus is actively supporting you in your trials and that His grace is sufficient.
Action Point:
Commitment: Write down a specific trial or challenge you are facing. Commit it to prayer, asking for God’s strength and guidance, and trust in Jesus’ intercession on your behalf.
Conclusion and Prayer
Reflection:
Summarize your key takeaways from this workbook.
Reflect on how understanding the role of covenants and the nature of testing can enhance your relationship with God and help you overcome the temptations of Satan.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing the depth of Your love and the nature of Your covenant with us. Help us to recognize and reject any hidden contracts or expectations that undermine our relationship with You. Strengthen our faith through the trials and tests we face, and remind us of Your unchanging grace and support. May we live fully in the freedom of Your unilateral covenant, trusting in Your provision and love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Follow-Up
Review: Revisit your journal and action points in a week to assess any changes in your perspective and faith.
Share: Consider discussing your insights with a trusted friend or mentor to deepen your understanding and support.
Feel free to use this workbook as a guide in your personal study or as a resource for group discussions. May it strengthen your faith and bring you closer to understanding and living out your relationship with God.