Lead Us Not Into Temptation but Into Excellence

UV 3632/10000 Lead Us Not Into Temptation but into Excellence I have heard of you, that a spirit of the gods is in you, and that illumination, insight and extraordinary wisdom have been found in you. Daniel 5 v 14 Daniel was recognized by successive kings as one who had the spirit of excellence, the very Spirit of God. Though the king used the plural, “gods,” he was not far wrong. Daniel’s reputation preceded him and brought him into the presence of the king, fulfilling the word of God that says, “ The one who excels will stand before kings.” Daniel had illumination or anointing of the Holy Spirit. He had insight and extraordinary wisdom to be able to decode mysteries and solve complex problems, a handy resource for any administrator charged with the affairs of state. Daniel spurned the rewards the king offered. He was not tempted by the loaves and fishes of office. He had elevated himself by many spiritual disciplines not to succumb to the mundane temptations that most men in his position and stature would have been tempted to fall for. His intelligence was not natural but of a higher order of spiritual intelligence. From the days of his youth, he had trained and disciplined his appetite for the finer things of this world. He preferred to fear and serve Jehovah, the God of his ancestors. The Lord had in return invested immense and amazing wisdom and gifts of discernment in him. It is sad to read this morning that many gifted leaders and teachers have fallen prey to the temptations of the flesh. The enemy had seen the chinks in their spiritual armour. Due to certain subtle weaknesses, the Lord allowed them to be tempted so. That is why we pray as Jesus taught us, “Lead us not into temptation.” God is not one who tempts anyone. But when our pride, our reliance on our natural gifts or charisma or influence increases beyond our dependence on godly wisdom, He allows us to be tempted. Hence, St Paul also beat himself not that there is any merit in self mortification but there is a need to be always aware that we are fallible people, the enemy knows where the clay in our feet exists and targets it.