Considering The Lord’s Prayer
As we consider the Lord’s prayer we see a progression. The beginning is about acknowledging our loving heavenly father, who’s names reveals his character and love for us. We pray “His Kingdom come” because truly “father knows best.” Once we have truly found the heart of worship we are now ready to ask for ourselves and others. So he said, pray for your daily needs. Once that is done, we are encouraged to examine our relationship with God and others for chinks, flaws, or unresolved conflicts. Interestingly, this comes right after our daily provision part of the prayer. Perhaps it is because in the pursuit of wealth; often relationships are abused, discarded, and even ruined. So we are taught to pray for our needs, but make sure no one is hurt in the process of meeting those needs.
Lead us not into temptation
Now we come to the most interesting line “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matthew 6:13 NIV) There seems to be a contradiction here as we read in James, the letter written by the Lord’s brother, “When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone;” James 1:13 (NIV)
To understand what is going on here we need to see the progression in the discipline of our prayer life. What Jesus is teaching us is that we must begin with praise, then we move to petition and finally conclude with prayers of protection.
Prayer = praise, petition, protection
Lead us not into temptation and deliver us from evil is a cry of humility and dependence of God to protect us and to keep us safe. Pride will cause us to fall. When our hearts are not humble and not seeking truth we become vulnerable to the judgement and discipline from the Lord. It is not that God tempts us, but he does lift his protection from us when we willfully go our own way. We then suffer the discipline of the Lord. Even in this we see redemption as the writer of Hebrews says, Hebrews 12:5-6 (NIV) 5 And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, 6 because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son."
But even better than facing trials, is to not go that route period. To remain humble is better than to “tempt” the Lord with our arrogance and willfulness of independence. In the discipline of prayer it is important for us not to take a casual posture with God and our relationship with him. Hence we pray, “lead us not into temptation, and deliver us from evil. This Sunday I will be expanding on this most important subject. Look forward to seeing you here with us.
Movie Sunday at KCF
On Sunday, April 30th as part of our Sunday Celebration we will be showing the movie War Room, prayer is a powerful weapon, by the creators of Fireproof and Courageous. Here is a link to the trailer you can check out. Consider asking a friend or family member to join you on this Sunday. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIl-XY9t_Lw
S.H.A.R.E. Nelson
S.H.A.R.E. currently has great ministry opportunities. Consider volunteering at S.H.A.R.E. Nelson. Call the store at 250.352.1222 or stop by the store to inquire.
Family Camp at Dutch Harbour
Why not consider taking a part of your holidays to join us for family camp this year. This is an inexpensive opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, Kootenay Lake, beautiful mountains and beaches, plus be inspired and encouraged. This will all happened within the community of wonderful people. Pastor Glen Forsberg will be our guest speaker and Cliff Schneider will provide Children’s Ministry for the kids. Join us July 3 to 7. Contact the office to register or visit kootenaychristianfellowship.com.
PART (Pedal Along a Rail Trail) 12
This super fun bike ride with a purpose is set to happen on Saturday, June 24. Come and join us for this incredibly scenic 4 to 5 hour ride with trestles, tunnels and spectacular views from high above the Arrow Lake. It is a 54 km ride starting at Paulson Detour Road and concluding at the Celgar Mill parking lot. This is a fundraiser for Our Daily Bread. With sponsorships of $200 or more, your entry fee will be waived. Registration forms are available at the Guest Table on Sunday, at the office during the week or at kootenaychristianfellowship.com. Register now and start accumulating sponsorships!
Calendar of Events
Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.
Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday.
Pastor Jim
E-transfers to office@kcfoffice.com
Kootenay Christian Fellowship520 Falls Street (1/2 Block up from Baker Street)Nelson, BC V1L 6B5