Topic no. 7 – Protection… Matthew 6:13 – And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
The Pharisis pray selfishly, hypocrite; the pagans pray mindlessly, mechanical. True prayer is humble, total dependence on God, and the purpose is to glorify God. We pray to claim God’s promises by having the right heart "pure", the right attitude "humble", the right purpose “to accomplish His wills and plans”. This week, we ask God to help us keep our faith strong and to be a stronger believer in the midst of hard times.
We may ask… would God lead us into temptations? No, the bible says God does not tempt people (James 1:13). Here, temptation means “test or trial” and it will help us grow. It could be bad if we fail during the tests. God promises to help us go thru it, if we remain in Him. Temptation has value after we pass thru it successfully. Joseph and his temptation are a great example.
Rest assured, Jesus sitting on the right hand of God is praying for us... God’s protection and how we can overcome temptation are as follows:
· Jesus prayed for the disciples in John 17:11 - I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name – the name you gave me – so that they may be one as we are one.
· James 4:7 - Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
· 1Cor 10:13 – 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.
Let us pray… “Father-God, thank you for reminding us of your protection and how we can overcome temptation. You are faithful and use all circumstances, including and especially tests/trials, to build our faith and character to be more like Jesus. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Please give us a “heart after God” which is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen”.