Drawn not dragged Lord’s Prayer— Part 10:

Lord’s Prayer— Part 10: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one”

When we pray, “Lead us not into temptation,” we need to hear carefully. God does not tempt us. So, what are we asking? We are asking: “Do not let me fall when I am tested.” Because testing will come. Testing always does. This is part of the ascetic life— or if you prefer, the athletic life of the soul. When I had my hip replacements, I did not enjoy the “testing” of recovery! But, the discipline of physio—thank you, Nancy—was precisely what brought healing and strength! Perhaps you have known something similar— a time when what felt like struggle was actually the path to healing.

The word here carries a depth of meaning: trial, testing, temptation. Not just small struggles—but the moments that reveal who we truly are. And this is not a sign that something has gone wrong. This is part of the journey. As the Church Fathers (Saints) teach, without testing, there is no growth. Without struggle, no healing. But we also know how easily we fall. How quickly fear takes over. How often we choose the easier path. So, we pray: “When the test comes—hold me.” This is not a prayer to escape life but is a prayer to remain faithful within whatever may be.

And then we continue: “But deliver us from the evil one.” Not just from vague “evil”— but from the one who works against life, truth, and love. From whatever would draw us away from God. From whatever would distort who we are becoming in Christ. This is a cry for rescue. Not distant—but immediate. Because in every moment of testing, there is also a choice: toward trust… or toward fear, toward Life…or away from Life (no thanks). We are not asked to stand alone. We are drawn to call out: “Deliver me.” And God does. Sometimes by strengthening us. Sometimes by opening a way forward. Sometimes by simply remaining with us until we can stand again.

This final petition gathers the whole prayer:

We have called God Abba, Father…

We have asked that His Holiness be revealed in us…

That His Kingdom come…

That His will be done…

That we be fed with His Life…

That we be forgiven—and forgive.

And now: “Keep us. Hold us. Bring us through.”

Not dragged through struggle— but drawn through it all into Life!

Question Where do I feel most tested right now…and have I asked God to meet me there?

Prayer Our Father,lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from the evil one.Strengthen me in the struggle.Keep me from falling.And bring me safely through.

Draw me into Your Life, even here. Amen.

Fr. Ray Dobson
©2026