Deliverance

Deliverance

Matthew 6:13, NLT

And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.

Setting the Scene

Traditionally the first half of this verse asks, “Lead us not into temptation” (KJV), but a more accurate translation is “Don’t let us yield to temptation.” God doesn’t tempt us, as James clearly states: “When you are being tempted, do not say, ‘God is tempting me.’ God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away” (James 1:13-14, NLT). At times God allows us to be tempted, as a test. But this testing always has a purpose. God continually works to refine his people, teach them to depend on him, and strengthen their character to be more like him. How he does this differs in every person’s life.

The next line has been translated “Deliver us from evil” (KJV), but the more accurate translation is “Rescue us from the evil one.” Satan is actively looking for ways to harm God’s people, to throw them off course. Jesus wanted his followers to place their trust in God during trying times and to pray for deliverance from “the evil one” and his deceit. We can’t resist temptation or defeat in our own strength; we must depend on God working in us and in our situation.

Believers who pray these last lines of the Lord’s Prayer realize their sinful nature and their need to depend on God in the face of temptation.

Getting Personal

What types of temptations are most tempting to you?

When might you encounter temptations today, both the trivial and the serious? What can you do to resist?

All Christians struggle with temptation. A temptation can be so subtle that we don’t even realize what is happening. Yet hear this promise: “God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure” (1 Corinthians 10:13, NLT). When temptations hit, thank God for trusting you that much, ask him to show you what to do, and pray for his strength to deliver you from the evil one.

Talking to God

As you pray, use the phrase “Don’t let me yield to” and list your own specific temptations. Ask God to show you ways to resist and endure, and thank him in advance for his promise of deliverance.