The Lord’s Prayer is a chance for us to look at who God is, and an invitation to follow him. The phrase “Lead us not into temptation” may seem as if we’re asking God to not take us to where trouble dwells, to keep us away from the messes of life. But God wouldn’t lead us into temptation (cf. James 1:13). This phrase serves as a promise that God will continually have our best interest in mind, and a reminder to always let God lead us.

• The gospel of John paints a beautiful image of a shepherd calling each of his sheep by name. Scripture says, “He goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.” Like the shepherd, God leads us by calling each of us by name. He leaves no one behind and calls all of us to follow him. When have you heard God calling you to follow him? How did you hear him? How does it comfort you to realize that God knows and calls you by name?
• The apostle Paul addressed readers as “brothers and sisters” in Romans 8:12. The use of these family terms reminded his readers that God, our Father, leads us and is ultimately in control. We have the chance to let the King lead us, to be part of his family. How does it make you feel to know God doesn’t lead us into trouble, but away from temptation? Where is God leading you today?