“And lead us not into temptation”
Meditation 4: “Temptation”
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.
This should make the resounding promise of deliverance (1 Cor 10:13) all the more invigorating. God’s promise is to combat the whole of fallen creation and be victorious in us. We are to pray to experience this promise and victory.