Day 5: "and lead us not into temptation"

The Lord’s Prayer

“‘Our Father in heaven, may your name be holy, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”

Prompt

James 1:13, reminds us that God doesn’t tempt us, He does lead us, however. It’s God’s lead that we are called to trust, to follow, and even to discern. Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me…So I sacrifice my life for the sheep…They will listen to my voice…” To discern between temptation, trials, and God’s leading, is the voice of Jesus. His voice, through the Holy Spirit, is the one who leads us and helps us discern our steps in this world. We learn and trust the sound of His voice the more we sit and be with Jesus. Hear His invitation, “come to me” and let him lead you where pastures are green and the waters are still.

Prayer

Lord, the paths in this life are many. And each path has its own joys, sorrows, and temptations. I trust your leading and I get tempted by my desires. Give me ears to hear your voice. To remind me of your presence, how you love me, how you accept me, how you have plans for an abundant life to be blessed and bless others. When I’m tempted, show me the way out, the way back towards you, the way that leads to life. Because we know and believe you want to lead us to green pastures, still waters, and rest in your presence. Help me to abide in you, and in my abiding, I am not led into temptation, but into life and love.

Reflect

Consider the direction(s) you go when tempted, when trials abound, and selfish desires are too loud to bear. Was God speaking even before the temptation, trial, or desire was triggered? God not only provides a way out during the trial or temptation, but also before. In what ways have you seen God lead you before, during, and after the trial or temptation? And how can you use that to draw closer to Jesus, to abide, and hear the Good Shepherd’s voice?