Bryant Wright, Founder

“And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.” Matthew 6:13 (KJV)

Have you ever paused while praying the Lord’s Prayer and wondered about this line? It can feel puzzling. After all, Scripture reminds us that God does not tempt anyone.

Jesus teaches us to pray this way because when temptation comes—and it will—our first response should be to call on God for help.

We need God’s strength. Temptation often appears subtly: a shortcut, a bitter thought, a compromise we justify. On our own, we are weak. But with God’s strength, we can stand firm.

We need God’s wisdom. Many temptations are easier to avoid than to resist. That’s why we ask God to guide our steps away from situations where we’re most likely to stumble.

And we need God’s protection. When Jesus says, “deliver us from evil,” He’s speaking of the evil one. Satan is real, but he is no match for God. Only God can rescue us from his schemes.

The enemy wants to destroy us, but God wants us to experience “abundant life” (John 10:10). So don’t rush through these words. Cling to them. Pray them slowly and sincerely. They remind us that with God, we never fight temptation alone. He provides strength, wisdom, and protection when we face temptation.

DIG DEEPER:
Read “The Armor of God Part 1 & Part 2” by George Wright