“Matt. 6:13) “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” The above verse is the ending words of Jesus’s example on of how to pray. In the Lord’s prayer we are first taught to honor and glorify the Father and His Holy Name or (His Person). Then we are commanded to seek His will or (His Purpose) in life. After which, Jesus taught us to (Petition) him for our needs or “daily bread,” as well as “forgiveness” and “deliverance from evil” when tested, but there is also another aspect of this prayer that most people miss; and that is (His Praise). You see the temptation to do sin or “evil” is as much a part of our daily life as breathing. We are tempted daily to lust, lie, steal, gossip, cheat, become jealous, hate, etc., so we need not just the forgiveness of God, but also His power in faith. Brethren, we have someone in heaven who knows the feel of temptation in the flesh, and his name is Jesus. (Heb. 10:14-15) ...but (He) was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” So, we have a God who not only experienced fleshly temptation himself, but who also can grant grace to us, and deliver us from all “evil.” (15) So, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Oh listen, the last words of Jesus in the above prayer is to remind us that God is more than just someone we go to for help, but He also is someone who deserves our praise. Praise is the part of prayer that is most left out. The above verse tells us that The Lord Jesus is in charge of everything, for His “kingdom” is both in heaven and on earth, and His “power” is unimaginable. He is the creator of everything, so He is worthy of “glory” also. His prayer then ends with “Amen,” meaning (and let it be so). So, forget not to “Praise The Lord” in your prayers.
( Gen 41:41-43) “And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt... A nd he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt.” When Joseph was introduced to us in chp.37, he was a young inexperienced 17 year old boy, and yet 13 years later God raised him up to rule the nation of Egypt. So, what made him different ? The Answer : “ Time,” and his faith in God ! You see time is a wonderful teacher; 1) Time strengthens endurance . Endurance and faith can only be strengthened over time. Like exercise, we start out not able to do much but over time we find that we can do more. You see, God allows us to go through the ups and downs of life, to help us gain not only spiritual maturity, but also spiritual abilities. Spiritual endurance therefore enables us to handle life’s trials better. 2) Time strengthens patience . Although Joseph, consistently did right, God allowe
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