The Role of the Wilderness (Luke 4:1-13)

Extracted from The Maxwell Leadership Bible

The role of the wilderness in the preparation of a leader cannot be overemphasized. Both Luke and Matthew record Jesus' time in the wilderness at the beginning of His ministry. Jesus spent 40 days alone, in the desert, abstaining from food and nosie and distraction. Both Gospel writers tell us this was a time ordained by the Holy Spirit.

So what happens to leaders in this wilderness season? Luke gives us a hint:

1. We recognize that God will lead us into seasons of growth, not gratification.
2. We fight battles and overcome temptations to take shortcuts.
3. We learn discipline and the art of depending on God.
4. We are broken of self-sufficiency and self-promotion.
5. We solidify our sense of mission.
6. We gain perspective.
7. We are prepared to enter our vocation.

Comment:
Jesus had been prepared to go through this process for 40 days in the desert. Even though He is God, He could have chosen not to do so. Leaders in developing a close personal relationship with God need to feel like Him. They must similarly go through this wilderness process, without which they would never understand what it is like to be disciplined and to depend on God. That is why with suffering comes perseverance.