Matthew 4:1 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

As we submit ourselves to God, we are to be led by the Holy Spirit in every area of our lives. The Holy Spirit may not always lead us down the shortest easiest path. Look at Jesus. Jesus, the Son of God, was led by the Holy Spirit to the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. Someone may ask, why would a loving God lead us down a seemingly rough pathway? Answer: For Spiritual Exercise.

How would we know how strong our faith is if it’s never tested? How would we know if we’re patient if we’ve never experienced delay? James 1:3 says, the testing of our faith produces patience and 1 Peter 1:7 mentions how our faith needs to be proven. It’s not being tested or proven to God because He already knows where our faith is. Our faith is tested so that we can know how strong or not so strong our faith is.

That’s why the Holy Spirit may lead us to certain banks for a loan, only to be denied by the bank. Or, that’s why the Holy Spirit may lead us to apply for a certain job, only to be turned down for the position. This seemingly negative leading is for the spiritual development of our faith and patience and our faith and patience will reveal what God has promised to us.

Hebrews 6:12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.