December 14

After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry. The tempter came to Him and said, “If You are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” — Matt 4:2-3 BSB

The devil knows when to strike. He waits for moments of weakness, exhaustion, or loneliness to bring his temptations. He doesn’t tempt us with things we don’t want, but with desires that appeal to our natural cravings. Satan waits for vulnerable times, like when Elijah was drained after the contest on Mount Carmel, and led him into despair. Or when a homesick, lonely young person seeks company that may lead to ruin.

Satan’s temptations are often tailored to fit our specific needs or desires. When Jesus was hungry after fasting for forty days, Satan tempted Him to turn stones into bread. Many people today face similar temptations when in need. They may be tempted to steal, cheat, or compromise their values to get what they lack. But we must learn to trust our souls to the One who has overcome the tempter and provides for us in His way and time.