Tempted but Not Forsaken

God has said,

 ‘Never will I leave you; Never will I forsake you.’

Hebrews 13:5 

Never Forsaken in the Wilderness

Lent draws us into the wilderness—a space not just of physical barrenness but of spiritual testing, longing, and dependence. It is in such seasons that God’s nearness often becomes most profound. The words of Hebrews 13:5 resound with hope: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” This promise holds us steady when all else feels uncertain.

John Stott explains it well: “The essence of sin is man substituting himself for God… the essence of salvation is God substituting himself for man.” Sin begins when we try to take control, placing ourselves where only God belongs. Salvation, however, is God taking our place—bearing our guilt, and giving us grace. We tried to claim His throne; He took our cross.

Through Jesus’ faithfulness in the wilderness, we learn how to stand—grounded in Scripture, led by the Spirit, and confident in the Father’s care. Hebrews 4:15 assures us that Jesus understands our struggle. He was tempted in every way, yet remained without sin. In Him, we are never alone.

Henri Nouwen reminds us: “We are sinful, broken, vulnerable people who need as much care as anyone we care for.” And yet, Christ does not forsake us. He meets us in our weakness with grace and strength.

Temptation may come dressed in urgency or allure, drawing us in with false promises. But we must hold fast to this truth: no temptation is greater than God’s abiding presence. His promise remains firm—“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

Prayer:

Lord,

Thank You for the promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. When we face temptation or trials, remind us of Your constant presence. Strengthen us through Your Word, lead us by Your Spirit, and help us trust fully in Your unfailing love.

Amen.