In Mark 1:12–13 the Spirit sent Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan for forty days. The desert was the devil’s turf, and to this barren wasteland, Jesus had to go. The same Spirit that had descended on him like a dove moments before amid words of assurance and unconditional love now commissioned him to engage his arch enemy. Jesus developed his self-leadership by refusing to yield to any self-centered allurement the devil threw at him. God protected him and, in the end, sent his angels to attend him. New leaders who go through a crucible of self-refining hardship can develop the character and personal values necessary for successful future leadership. Choose opportunities that will challenge you to the core and develop your personal character. Expose yourself to adversity to discover the benefits of disciplining and leading yourself. God will protect you.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: What have I learned from past difficulties? When have I intentionally avoided adversity rather than embrace it? How can I prepare for future challenges? Who in my life can I lean on for support and encouragement?