We have discussed that temptation is natural to fallen man and we need deliverance. When Christ taught this portion of the prayer it was not spoken in a vacuum. The history of Israel is built upon their deliverance from Egypt (Exo 6-12). Israel was delivered from their bondage to Egypt and the difficulties of their labor.
The promises have been made. A sign is given. Now the covenant is made.
These two are not distinct descriptions! They are the same for “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matt 12:34; Luke 6:45). Vocal ascent requires plenary obedience by fearing the Lord (v. 4). The man who does these things shall not be moved (v. 5). Again Christ taught this in the parable of the two houses (Matt 7:24-27).
The title says it all. Your children are in your house. Perhaps you should double check? Okay. Check. Now why are they there? I know how they got there. If you don't know go ask your parents and I'm sure they'll be delighted to explain it to you. This isn't a question of "how?". This is a question of "why?".
Given that those in Christ are a “new creation” (2 Cor 5:17), it is important to teach that while we pray for God’s mercy and grace we must also rely on it. This reliance can keep us from both temptation and sin.
My trips down memory lane have increased as I witness my children basking in the attention and care of their grandparents – so buckle up friends; I’ve plans to revisit the past.
Enjoying the blessing of God’s deliverance from temptation is only heightened by a better understanding of temptation. James’ point is that temptation is within ourselves (Jam 1:13-14). Man’s thoughts are perpetually evil (Gen 6:5; 8:21). We are continually in a state of overwhelming temptation when we depart from the grace of God.
We are to pray for this same deliverance from temptation for the entirety of the church. We are to start within our homes, into our church, throughout our denominations and eventually expanding to the church universal which is the true bride of Christ. This is how we are taught to pray.
This is the blessing of being found in God, He promises us things we do not deserve and then instructs us to pray in fulfillment of this promise. Instead of being a request that instills fear, this request of God is meant to bring hope. Those who pray in Christ’s name for His promises will receive them (John 14:13-14; 15:16; 16:23-26).
So when we are left to our own accord temptations appear in us. And this is not uncommon to man. But God is still our deliverer (1 Cor 10:13). So this portion of the prayer is accurately a prayer of deliverance. This is how we should pray.