Venturing on Satan’s Ground

If Satan can cause us to place ourselves unnecessarily in the way of temptation, he knows that victory is his. God will preserve everyone who walks in the path of obedience. But to leave that path is to step onto Satan’s ground. The Savior has instructed us, “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” Mark 14:38.HH 51.1

Often when we are placed in a difficult situation, we doubt that the Spirit of God has led us. But it was the Spirit’s leading that brought Jesus into the wilderness. When God brings us into trials, He has a purpose to accomplish for our good. Jesus did not presume on God’s promises by deliberately choosing to go into temptation. Neither did He give up to feelings of despair when temptation came upon Him. Nor should we. See 1 Corinthians 10:13; Psalm 50:14, 15.HH 51.2

Jesus was the Victor in the second temptation, and now Satan showed himself in his true character—as a mighty angel, though fallen. He proclaimed himself the leader of rebellion and the god of this world. Placing Jesus on a high mountain, he caused the kingdoms of the world to pass in panoramic view before Him. The sunlight lay on templed cities, marble palaces, fertile fields, and fruit-laden vineyards. The traces of evil were hidden. The eyes of Jesus gazed on a scene of incredible beauty and prosperity. Then He heard the tempter’s voice: “All these things I will give You.” “If You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”HH 51.3

Ahead of Christ lay a life of sorrow, hardship, and conflict, and a shameful death. Christ could deliver Himself from the dreadful future by acknowledging Satan’s supremacy. But to do this would be to yield the victory in the great controversy. If Satan succeeded now, it would be the triumph of rebellion.HH 51.4