And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
Matthew 6:13
Lead Us Not Into Temptation...
Temptation has plagued the human race since the Garden of Eden.
The temptation to disobey God’s commands came from Satan himself. In our hi-tech world those same temptations are powerfully presented to us through TV, advertising, and social media – we can’t escape it. Sometimes we are pressured or influenced by people we encounter, and the results are not always good.
However, we should not go into a defensive mode – we are always in a position to influence others for good [lead others away from temptation!]. Although temptation is something we all experience, it does not necessarily lead to sin, we make our own free-will choices.
“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” Matthew 6: 13 (KJV) is a little confusing if we are familiar with James 1:13 which clearly says "God doesn’t tempt anybody." The Revised English Bible (REB) says it this way; ‘Temptation comes when anyone is lured and dragged away by his own desires’.
Modern translations like the REB put a different twist on Matthew 6: 13; ‘And do not put us to the test, but save us from the evil one.’ The prayer seems to be saying please don’t allow us to be in situations where our faith may be overcome by evil forces, help us realise the consequences of sin and act accordingly.
Temptation is a challenge, but sin is a choice. Temptation is inevitable, but sin is not.
PRAY: God help me to rejoice in your power and goodness. Help me to accept responsibility for my actions, and allow me to surrender my daily life to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Today's contributor: Allan Gray
