Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. Luke 4: 1-2 

We learn from this verse that immediately after Jesus was baptised in the Holy Spirit, He was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit, to be tempted by the devil for forty days and nights. That was probably a very difficult experience, but Jesus promptly obeyed the Spirit’s leading him. He trusted the Holy Spirit, knowing even the difficulties he would face would work out for his good in the end. 

Obeying God in difficult times helps develop godly character. Jesus set an example for us that we should follow. Following the leadership of the Holy Spirit during seasons of hardship, develop faithfulness, determination, and strength in us - qualities God wants us to have. God has given us the Holy Spirit to help us fulfil His plans for our lives. Sometimes, we must encounter difficulties in order to develop the character we need in order to do what God has planned. We must always remember we never face anything - difficult or great - alone. The Holy Spirit is always with us to help us, and His ways are always the best.  

Dear Lord,

help us not to be afraid of hard times. 

We know you will always be with us, guiding us and caring for us. 

Help us to understand that these hard times will ultimately make us stronger.

We pray for people everywhere, experiencing hardships and that you will be by their side and see them through.

We ask this in your name, Amen