By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo.
Matthew 4:8-10 "Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ ” - NIV
During the temptation, Jesus and the devil are atop a very high mountain. The devil shows Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and their glory and material wealth. He offers it to Jesus if only Jesus would bow down and worship him. At that, Jesus chased him away, declaring that ALL worship is due only to God. Worship defines, and is at the centre of all spirituality, godly or demonic. God demands it. Satan also wants it by trickery.
Satan uses worldly things to lure people to worship him. He promises wealth, fame, influence and all the things people like and easily fall for. He gives what appears so simple and easy; ‘just bow down and worship me and all these will be yours! But the reality is that it will be at the cost of your soul! This is what many have done in all spheres of life: politics, business, sports, academia, social relationships, etc. They have fallen for the bait of Satan as they seek to succeed. And they pay heavily.
Friends, Satan gives nothing for free. It is ALWAYS in exchange for your soul. Watch out for the glittering ‘too good to be true’ offers he gives. He is a liar. In the end, it will NOT be as rosy as he promises. He is a terrible task master. Those under him are in torment. Getting out of his traps takes God’s grace. Learn to patiently wait on God and worship Him alone. In the end it will be well with your soul.
Psalm 95:6-7 "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care…"
Shalom children of God.