Don't Tempt Me...

Part 6 in a series on the Lord's Prayer



And do not bring us to the time of trial.

- Luke 11:4



This last portion of Luke's version of the Lord's prayer is very often how we begin our own prayers.  When we feel desperate, or fearful, or worried, we turn to God for comfort (as we should- don't stop doing that).  But we often start our prayers by asking God for something... now!  Protect us, God.  Keep us safe.  Keep us from all difficulty; keep us out of trouble, keep us from wandering, and keep us from  suffering...  

That last bit is the main thing, isn't it? No one wants to suffer. No one prays that they might be brought into painful circumstances (times of trial) in order to grow closer to God, even though we've most likely lived though it and have come out stronger in our relationship with God in the end. 
We have felt God's presence during the hardest days of our lives.  We've experienced the love of God's people, ministering to us when we're in crisis.  We've received God's mercy and grace when we've needed it the most. We know God will bring us through any storm.

Our faith is sure... well, most of the time. 

Jesus instructs the disciples to pray, "Keep us from the time of trial," not because they will be able to avoid suffering, or conflict, or pain any more than we can.  Just living out the ways of Christ will bring each disciple into conflict and confrontation with the people and powers of the world.  They will at every turn, be tempted (as we are continually tempted) to turn away from the teachings of Jesus; to take the easier path, to compromise true love, inclusion, and compassion, and go back to the ways of the world.  At times, temptation will win, albeit painful for the believer to admit and endure. That is to be expected as none of us is perfect, save Jesus.

Jesus instructs the disciples to pray, "keep us from the time of trial" instead, so that in the midst of adversity,  the disciples might remember who they (we) are.  That we might recollect the God who has cared for us in the past, and will surely not leave us orphaned. (John 14:18) In the midst of stress and strain, and even sin, that we would continue to see ourselves as God's children- loved- cherished, no matter what.  That God's spirit lives in us. 
And from that knowledge of who we are and whose we are, draw strength and perseverance to endure.

The prayer Jesus gives to us is simple.  It offers opportunities to the pray-er for thanksgiving, praise, confession, and supplication.  Pray it now with me if you like...

​                                       Father, (or whatever address you have chosen)
                                                   hallowed be your name.
                                                 Your kingdom come.
                                      Give us each day our daily bread.
                                                    And forgive us our sins,
                                     for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us.
                                           And do not bring us to the time of trial.
                                                                 Amen

Peace to you,
Pastor Linda

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