Luke 3:21, 22  One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. As he was praying, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.” (NLT)

Luke 4:1, 2  Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. (NLT)

Luke 4:14  Then Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit’s power. Reports about him spread quickly through the whole region. (NLT)

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Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit and led by the Holy Spirit. He was tempted by the evil one. Jesus returned from forty days of fasting and temptation “filled with the Spirit’s power.”

This day, and every other we live through, is filled with temptations. Some days are more challenging than others. How can we not only survive but thrive in seasons of temptation? We follow the pattern of Jesus. 

* Trust God in every extremity.
* Know God and his words of truth and life. 
*  Honor him in every decision.
* Let the Spirit of God lead the way.

Today will bring some challenges. Ask the Spirit of God to empower you for all that is ahead. 

Commit to memory Bible verses that declare who God is and what he wants for us.

Make decisions aligned with his truth and attuned to his heart.

Continually follow where the Spirit leads in our thoughts, words, work, and acts of kindness and generosity.

These few words and ideas require practice and repetition. One workout is not enough to get us through the week, the month, the year, or a lifetime. This is a daily quest. 

Seek the filling of the Spirit day by day. 

Let the Spirit lead the way.

Live in the empowering presence of the Spirit in every moment. 

These habits turn lives sunny side up. They lighten loads. They carry joy and share delight. They refresh families and build communities.

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I will seek the filling, leading, and empowering of the Spirit of God day by day and moment by moment.

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Our Father, fill me, lead me, empower me for all that is before me today. Use me to overflow with your joy, delight, and grace in all I do and say. Make me a blessing. Amen.