“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
Matthew 6:13, NIV
The word translated “temptation” can also be translated as “trials” or “tests.” The consensus is that those things that challenge us toward positive growth are trials or tests, while those things that lead us toward sin are temptations.
The request “lead us not into temptation” is not to suggest God causes temptation, but is a rhetorical way of asking for His protection from sin. The Apostle James puts it this way in his letter.
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.”
James 1:12-13, NIV
But God does not leave us on our own. He is always there for us. As the Apostle Paul writes:
“No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13, NRSV
In combining last week’s verse, “Forgive us our sins,” and this week’s verse, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil,” we see that the forgiven person is eager not to offend again. Experiencing salvation leads to a desire for sanctification.