Everyone endures hardship at some point in their life. For many, the greatest hardship may be the loss of a loved one or the consequences of an unjust act. Most people find—at their breaking point—who they really are. I call this experience “The Crucible.” You will meet your own crucible at some point in your life, if you haven't already, and will find your breaking point. 

In chemistry, a crucible is a small pot that is used to melt down various metals. The metals are then reshaped to form new and useful items. It is the same with people. Instead of thinking of your crucible as something that will destroy you, why not remember that it will ultimately strengthen you and make you new?

We are not the only ones who have to face hardships and trials. God Himself sent His only Son to die for us, and His son, Jesus, faced many trials. Matthew 4:1–11 relates Jesus’ forty-day experience in the wilderness where He was tempted by Satan. During those forty days, Jesus dealt with every temptation or trial you and I could ever face. These were represented by three temptations. This week’s study and sermon will investigate these temptations and help us develop lessons to use in dealing with our own crucibles.