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I. THAT THEY COME TO THE BEST OF MEN.

1. To test the work and progress of their moral character.

2. To impart to moral character new traits of beauty.

II. THAT THEY OFTEN FOLLOW TIMES OF HAPPY COMMUNION WITH GOD.

1. These altered conditions of soul are often sudden.

2. They are disciplinary.

3. They are unwelcome.

III. THAT THEY MARK IMPORTANT CRISES IN THE SPIRITUAL HISTORY OF THE GOOD.

1. They aid self-interpretation.

2. They give insight into the problem of sin.

3. They afford an opportunity of asserting moral supremacy.

IV. THAT THEY ARE FREQUENTLY FOLLOWED BY THE SOOTHING MINISTRIES OF HEAVEN.

1. These ministries are angelic.

2. They are personal.

3. They are opportune.

4. They are soothing.Lessons:

1. That temptation should not cause us to depreciate the worth of our moral character.

2. That temptation should increase our knowledge of self, and enhance the progress of our being.

3. That the devotions of the good should prepare them for struggle with evil.

4. That solitude is no safeguard against temptation.

5. That heavenly ministries are at the disposal of a tempted, but prayerful, soul.

6. That man has the power to resist the strongest opposition of hell.

(Joseph S. Exell, M. A.)

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KJV: And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.

WEB: Immediately the Spirit drove him out into the wilderness.