Pray Like This: Reflections on the Lord’s PrayerSample

Lead Us Not into Temptation

If God were to remove His hand of protective grace, none of us would stand firm in our spiritual lives. We would fall into sin. Without God’s grace, none of us can stand against the temptations we face each day. That’s why the Lord taught us to pray that we will be protected from yielding to temptations.

In 1 Corinthians 10:12, apostle Paul warns, “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” We must never think that we are immune to temptations. God has promised that He will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability (1 Corinthians 10:13). Our temptations are not stronger than the spiritual resources God has given us. He will provide a way of escape from temptations. God often tests His people to reveal their commitment to Him.

Now some of us may wonder how can we pray that God would not allow us to face tests or trials. The Bible is clear that God’s people will face trials in this world. We will face many tests, especially during the final tribulation (24:4-26). The Bible says that since the testing of our faith makes it strong (James 1:3-4), we must “count it all joy” (James 1:2) when we face trials. Some products in the store have a sticker that says they have been “tested.” Even so, God’s people will be tested time and again. When we are tested, our real faith is demonstrated.

However, trials can tempt us to sin, if we don't fully submit to God. Probably that’s why the Greek word, peirasmos can be translated as "test" or "temptation." The Bible never commands us to desire or pray for trials, but we can rejoice when they come because we know that God can use them to strengthen our faith. We must pray that God will deliver us from all temptations (cf. Mt. 26:41; Lk. 22:40, 46; 2 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 3:10), and that the Lord will give us victory over them.

It’s not enough to pray that we will not yield to temptations. We must do our part as well. Pray to God and do your part to overcome temptations.