Unshakeable Identity And Relationship In Christ
LENT DEVOTIONAL 2026 | DAY 7
Luke 4:1–13 (NIV)
By Foo Yu Da, Chairperson, Witness & Evangelism
READ:
Luke 4:1–13 (NIV)
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (v1). Twice, the devil attempted to make Jesus question His identity by opening his challenge with “If you are the Son of God…” (vv3, 9). In the first instance, the devil is trying to create doubt by associating identity with never lacking in our basic needs, i.e. bread (v3b) and in the second instance by associating identity with validation by testing God the Father (vv9–11). Sandwiched in between is a challenge for Jesus to trade-off His relationship with God the Father for material rewards (vv5–7). In all three instances, Jesus understood what was most important with responses that were consistent with Scripture and successfully overcame the devil’s challenges.
I often assume that as a believer filled with the Holy Spirit and having prayed and led by the Spirit to make certain life decisions, the right outcome should be a smooth and comfortable one. It is clear to me here that this is not the case as Jesus, having been led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit, still had to make the right choices for Himself. Having made several career decisions that still put me in an unfulfilled and challenging state, I often ask myself if I have made the wrong decisions. If I had made the right choices, shouldn’t life feel like a bed of roses? Apparently not. This is a reminder for me to remain steadfast in my circumstances and continue to trust in the Spirit. Further to this, Jesus’ responses remind me to remain rooted in my identity and relationship with Him and that will enable me to remain unshaken. Jesus’ responses tell me that: (1) my identity in God is not affected by my apparent lack in material fulfillment (v4), (2) my identity in God is a strong foundation that should not require further validation (v12), and (3) worshipping God and being in a relationship with Him is sufficient in itself and far superior to worldly rewards (v8). Indeed, I already have all that I need to lead a meaningful and purposeful life in all areas of my life.
This will be my daily prayer that I am a child of God, righteous because of what Christ has done on the cross and not by my own works. My challenging circumstances do not change that. Father, by my own strength I am unable to, but with You I can. Give me the grace and strength to continue being rooted in my relationship with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
[ Reflection Questions ]
- How far do you remain confident in your identity in Christ in the face of challenges?
- What can help you grow in this confidence?
- How can you face your challenges differently in view of your unshakeable identity in Christ?
