And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. By Aije Barnes, March 2 Issue 1 Vol 4

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil {Matthew 6:13}.

 

I have often wondered why Jesus taught us to ask the Father not to lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. The scripture that comes to mind when I ponder upon this, is Jesus' prayer in the garden of Gethsemane. Here he prayed “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will. ” Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” (Matthew 26:39, 42 NKJV). Jesus prayer this same prayer a third time before he was betrayed and arrested. 

 

As Christians in this world, we cannot avoid trials and temptation. Jesus said: Woe to the world for such temptations to sin and influences to do wrong! It is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the person on whose account or by whom the temptation comes! (Matthew 18:7 AMP)

 

Being tempted or going through trials is not pleasant. It is sometimes the will of God that we go through trials and temptations; however, the outcome does not have to be disastrous or lead you to sin.  No wonder Jesus taught us to pray straight after 'but deliver us from evil'. 

The most important thing is that we endure temptation because those who do, receive a blessing. The scripture says:

'Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (James 1:12 NKJV)'

 

Also, 

 

'Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (James 1:13-15 KJV)'. 

 

We therefore have a part to play when we are faced with trials and temptations. This is not to get drawn away and enticed by own lust but rather to hold fast to God's promises to us in His word and trust Him to bring us through them victoriously. 

 

The scripture says:

 

Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. (Psalms 34:19 KJV).

The scriptures also says:

'My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (James 1:2-4, 12 NKJV). 

 

Apostle Paul who endured so many troubles testifies of this in the book of Romans:

 

'We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts. He gave us his love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us. (Romans 5:3-5 NCV). 

 

Jesus also said:

 

'I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] (John 16:33 AMP)'

 

Remember always that The Lord has promised to deliver you from all of your afflictions. Jesus has deprived the world of the power to harm you. He is faithful to his promised and does not lie. 

 

May the peace and love of God fill your heart and life as you continue to trust in Him. 

 

Shalom!