During the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad, builders had to construct an elaborate trestle across a deep canyon. After it was built, the chief engineer wanted to test it. A train loaded with double the normal train cars and supplies was driven to the middle of the bridge where it stayed for an entire day.
Someone asked the builder, "Are you trying to break the bridge?" His answer was, "No, I am trying to prove that the bridge will not break."
By teaching the disciples to pray, "[L]ead us not into temptation," Jesus was preparing them to face life's trials and temptations correctly.
In the same way, God allows us to be tempted by the enemy. There is a spiritual hedge of protection around the life of the believer that can only be penetrated with God's approval.
In times of testing, God wants to strengthen us through these trials so that we will be made ready for His service.
Prayer is the most powerful form of communication that we have. By teaching the disciples to pray, "[L]ead us not into temptation," Jesus was preparing them to face life's trials and temptations correctly by drawing on the Lord as their Captain—giving Him control over every aspect of their lives (Matthew 6:13). Likewise, our only source of wisdom and help is found in God; thus we pray, "Lead us not into temptation."
God does not allow us to face needless trials. Most of what we face comes as a result of living life in a fallen world. However, we must learn to say no to anything that would prevent us from living holy lives before a holy God. We must allow God to lead us, for He will always provide a way out, empowering us to say no to sin (see 1 Corinthians 10:13).
Prayer: Father, lead me not into temptation. When I face temptation, help me to see the way out You have provided. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon The Prayer That God Answers, Part 9: LISTEN NOW
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