Temptation is real, and as close as our thoughts. Jesus never glossed over it, and in the model prayer, He said this:

“…And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Matthew 6:13a NKJV

Our enemy is formidable and dangerous. However, a follower of Christ has the power to overcome him when following the Holy Spirit’s lead. The key part is discerning the difference between the Lord’s leading and our own preferences.

Consider what James wrote:

“Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.” – James 1:13-14

Think about how incredible that is. Evil doesn’t tempt God in any way. It doesn’t deceive Him, corrupt His attitude, lure Him into bad choices, or weaken His resolve. For the disciple, the goal should be to stay close to the One who is immune to the daily struggle of figuring it out. He’ll always lead down a path of righteousness because that’s His nature.

Are you willing to stay close today? Are you willing to admit that you need to be led? “…And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”