Dwelling in His Presence and Walking in Obedience

Scripture Readings:

Deuteronomy 26:1-12
Psalm 91:1-2, 11-end
Luke 4:1-11

Exhortation:

Lent is a season of consecration, reflection, and spiritual renewal. It is a time when we realign our hearts with God through fasting, prayer, repentance, and generosity. Today’s readings call us to obedience, trust, and the power of God’s Word in our spiritual journey.

1. The Call to Obedience and First Fruits (Deuteronomy 26:1-12)

Moses instructs the Israelites to present the first fruits of their harvest to the Lord, acknowledging His faithfulness in bringing them into the Promised Land. This act of gratitude and obedience reminds us that everything we have is from God, and in Lent, we are called to give back—whether through fasting, prayer, or acts of charity.

Lent is a time to reflect:

• Have we given God our best, or only what is convenient?
• Are we walking in obedience to His commands, even in seasons of testing?
• Do we truly acknowledge Him as the source of our blessings?

Like the Israelites, we must lay down our “first fruits” before God—not just material offerings but our hearts, our time, and our devotion.

2. Dwelling in His Presence (Psalm 91:1-2, 11-end)

Psalm 91 reminds us of the security found in God's presence. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1). Lent is an invitation to dwell deeper in God’s presence, seeking refuge in Him rather than in worldly comforts.

The enemy seeks to distract us, but God commands His angels to guard us (Psalm 91:11). When we walk in obedience, trust, and humility, we experience divine protection and provision.

Let this be our Lenten meditation:

• Are we truly dwelling in God’s presence, or are we distracted?
• Do we trust in His protection, or are we overwhelmed by fear and worry?
• Are we resting in His promises, or striving in our strength?

3. Overcoming Temptation with the Word (Luke 4:1-11)

Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness mirrors our Lenten journey. He was tempted by Satan but overcame each trial through the power of God’s Word.

• Temptation of the Flesh: Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread. But Jesus responded, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God” (Luke 4:4). Lent reminds us that spiritual nourishment is greater than physical comfort.
• Temptation of Power: Satan offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. But Jesus declared, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve” (Luke 4:8). We must guard our hearts against pride and idolatry, surrendering fully to God.
• Temptation of Testing God: Satan challenged Jesus to prove His divinity by forcing God’s hand. But Jesus answered, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God” (Luke 4:12). Faith trusts in God’s timing, not manipulation.

Like Jesus, we are in a season of testing, but victory is found in knowing and standing firm on God’s Word.

Lenten Reflection and Call to Action:

1. Are you offering God your “first fruits” in this season—your best prayers, devotion, and sacrifices?
2. Are you dwelling in the secret place of the Most High, trusting in His protection and provision?
3. Are you overcoming temptations through the power of God’s Word?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, as we journey through this Lenten season, teach us to walk in obedience, trust in Your presence, and overcome temptations through Your Word. May we give You our first fruits—not just of our resources but of our hearts. Help us to abide in You and experience the power of Your protection. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Commitment:

Today, spend time meditating on Psalm 91 and declare God’s promises over your life. Write down areas where you need to walk in greater obedience and surrender them to God.

Lent is not just about what we give up, but about who we become. Let’s grow in faith, obedience, and the Word.