Word
“And lead us not into temptation…”
Matthew 6:13a
Daily Devotional
The next line in the Lord’s Prayer asks God to lead us away from temptation. It acknowledges our deep need to be led because we are like sheep, defenseless on our own and easily led astray into the temptations of this world, whether by Satan or by our own sin.
But Scripture tells us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and He leads us into what is good and right, protecting and guiding us as His flock because He cares for us (Psalm 23, John 10:11). Scripture tells us much about shepherds and the lengths they would go to protect them from thieves, robbers, wolves and wilderness, even laying down their lives for the sake of their sheep (John 10). This analogy helps us understand the depths of the love that God has for us, so much that Christ willingly died for us so that we may live (2 Corinthians 5:15).
Scriptures for Today
As you read today's Scriptures, read slowly and attentively, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to you as you meditate on His Word.
Matthew 6:9-13
“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation…”
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Worship
Prayer
We will continue to use the Lord’s Prayer as a framework for prayer and intercession today.
Today’s focus is the NATIONS OF THE EARTH.
Pray that God's name would be hallowed among every tribe, tongue, people and nation in the earth. Ask that His Kingdom would come and that His will would be done in the nations, their governments and people. Intercede for nations experiencing war, famine, persecution and oppression, and ask God to move with power on their behalf. Pray for the Church, missionaries and church planters who are carrying the gospel into the uttermost parts of the earth, that God would protect them from evil and strengthen them.
Listen & Obey
Spend two minutes in silent, listening prayer. Write down what you sense the Holy Spirit speaking to you. Here are some prompts to assist you:
- Lord, what do You want to speak to me from these passages of Scripture as I start my day?
- How do You want me to apply this truth today?
- Who do I need to share this with today?