Lead Us Not Into Temptation

“Lead us not into temptation…” — Matthew 6:13

Jesus is not teaching us to pray these words because God might otherwise tempt us to sin; God does not tempt anyone (James 1:13-14).  However, God does sometimes bring us to a place of testing (peirasmós) to prove or strengthen us.

Indeed, temptation often begins quietly: a change in circumstances, followed by an inner impulse. Job experienced it in suffering; Jesus experienced it in hunger. The real battleground is not the circumstance itself, but the heart’s response.

Temptation works by taking God’s good gifts and twisting them—turning desire into demand, rest into avoidance, and blessing into pride. Scripture uses the word ponēros to describe both evil and the Evil One, reminding us that we face not only face the reality of evil in the world but also spiritual opposition from a personal and hostile enemy.

Why did Jesus teach us to pray this way?

1. Because we live in a spiritual minefield.
2. Because we are not as strong as we think.
3. And because God does not abandon us

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. — Corinthians 10:13

He draws near, providing support, comfort, and a way out in every moment (1 Corinthians 10:13). We resist not by our own strength but by His. And we do so with confidence, for Christ has already triumphed (Colossians 2:15).

How do we respond?

• Avoid the paths you know lead to sin.
• Pray proactively before the temptation comes.
• Be honest with God about your vulnerabilities.
• Look for and take the way of escape God provides.
• Rejoice—because victory is ultimately His.

In the end, this prayer is a difficult prayer because it requires a confession of humility and dependence. Christians face temptations, yes, but never alone. The God who leads us is also the God who delivers us.

Speaker: Bro. Phillip Fong