Q106. What do we pray for in the sixth request?
In the sixth request—"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil"—we pray that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin or hold us up and rescue us when we are tempted.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Matthew 26:41
“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Psalm 19:13
“Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.”
1 Corinthians 10:13
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
Psalm 51:10, 12
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. … Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What two things are we asking God for in the sixth request?
- 2
What is the difference between being tested and being tempted to sin?
- 3
What temptations do you face most often, and when do they usually come?
Illustration
Imagine walking along a slippery ledge. You would want someone strong holding your hand to keep you from falling. This prayer asks God either to keep you off the ledge altogether or to hold you firm when you must walk along it. He can do both.
Application
Because God promises to hold you up when temptation comes, tell him about your specific temptations. Do not just pray "keep me from sin" in general. Name the sin that trips you up most. Ask God to either keep you away from the situation or give you strength to stand firm in it.