And lead us not into temptation - A petition similar to this is offered by David, in Psalm 141:4; "Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with the workers of iniquity" and also by Jabez in I Chronicles 4:10 “Keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” God does not lead us into trials. James 1: 13-14 says, "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed." It is never God's desire for us to be led into sin. If we resist the devil, we are promised that he will flee from us. James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

Why would our Father in Heaven, who knows all things, lead us into temptation?............ 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." God doesn't tempt us, but He allows us to be put into situations where our faith is tested and strengthened and in such situations we may utter this prayer asking God for power so that we could overcome the temptation. When the temptations look attractive and huge, only God can fill our mind with His strength so that we might go unscathed . Godly thoughts and higher ambitions to lead a victorious life which are more powerful that the earthly allurements are gift of God. Thus, God leads us away from the tempting situations by His divine promptings . But God can intervene only on our invitation .Therefore, we need to make this supplication so that our attitude is aligned with His will to lead us away from the adverse situations.

Sometimes we pray for what appears to be innocent and good. But on several occasions, God knows that we will be in trouble if we are granted what we ask for. Even certain positions and possessions in life may turn out to be snares to entrap us. Shouldn’t we make such a prayer at such moments asking God not to lead us, unwary victims, into a sweet looking mesh of sin.

Some associations and relationships can harm our relationship with God. This prayer “Lead us not into temptation” is very relevant at that time. Only God can steer us away from what will be harmful for us. Hence, we need to pray that we are guided in the path of righteousness.

Dr. (Mrs.) Edriana Jeyasingh