Jesus and Robert Johnson

At that crossroads in Mississippi Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil. At least that’s what the legend says. Robert Johnson was a mediocre guitar player until the devil made him an offer he didn’t refuse. And, although he died young, poisoned by a jealous man, Robert Johnson became the seminal influence of Mississippi Delta blues music. He didn't even live to enjoy his fame. In the end it was a poor bargain. Robert Johnson couldn’t say no to Satan.

I understand the temptation—I’d like to play and sing like Bonnie Raitt or Susan Tedeschi. But ceding my soul to the devil is too high a price.

Jesus was tempted by Satan too. Led by the Spirit, Jesus went into the wilderness for forty days to fast and prepare for His ministry. Satan tempted Him by offering Him food and worldly power; he tried to get Jesus to test the Father. Jesus told Satan to get lost. Jesus didn’t need Satan’s empty promises. It's the power of the Spirit that makes the difference.

And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. (Luke 4:14-15)