Peirasmos (G3986), rendered "temptation" in Matthew 6:13, originally carried a neutral sense of putting to the proof, a test or trial of character, and only later took on its sinister modern connotation. In this sense God does lead His people into peirasmos, testing and developing them toward maturity, wisdom, and steadfastness, though they are not to desire hard trials or seek a rough road. Christ Himself asked that the cup pass from Him. James 1:13 uses a closely related word (G3985) that adds the idea of enticing or luring to evil, and it says God neither can be tempted by evil nor tempts anyone. This creates no contradiction with Matthew: God tests so that His people succeed, while enticement to sin comes from a person's own lust and from Satan. James 1:2-3 shows that trials produce patience and godly character, so they are to be counted as joy. The second half of the petition, "deliver us from the evil one," recognizes that Satan, like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), baits and snares people through money, appetites, and worldly entertainments in order to destroy them spiritually. The daily prayer is therefore an admission of weakness and dependence on God, modeled by David's request in Psalm 141:3-4, and it should name specific needs and include intercession for others. James 1:12 uses the same word as Matthew 6:13 and promises the crown of life to the one who endures peirasmos and is approved.

The Greek word *peirasmos* (Strong's G3986) is central to understanding the concepts of trials, tests, and temptations, as these terms are often synonymous due to their shared definitions. *Peirasmos* encompasses a putting to proof, whether through experiences of good or evil, indicating adversity, temptation, or trial. This word, along with related terms like Strong's 3984 and 3985, highlights the interconnected nature of testing and tempting in scriptural contexts. In exploring *peirasmos*, it becomes evident that while God tests His people to refine character and assess faithfulness, He does not tempt with evil. God's tests, as seen in various scriptures, are designed to determine loyalty and obedience, to see if His people will listen and do as instructed. For instance, God tested the Israelites in the wilderness to know their hearts and whether they would walk in His law. These tests are for growth and benefit, aimed at helping His followers succeed and grow in the image of the Savior. In contrast, temptation associated with *peirasmos* often points to an enticement toward sin, which is not from God but from human desires and the influence of satan, identified as the tempter. Scriptures reveal that satan tempts with the intent to cause failure and sin, ultimately leading to death. This is evident in accounts where satan, allowed by God, tempts individuals, as seen with Job and Jesus Christ. While God permits such temptations to occur, He provides a way of escape, ensuring that His people are not led into sin but are preserved from the evil one. The distinction lies in intent and outcome: God's use of *peirasmos* as a test is rooted in love, aiming for spiritual growth and success, whereas satan's temptations under the same term seek destruction and rebellion against God. Thus, while *peirasmos* can mean both test and temptation, the source and purpose behind each instance clarify whether it is a refining trial from God or a destructive lure from the tempter.

Temptation, from the Greek noun *peirasmos* (G3986), refers to trials or tests that can have either a beneficial purpose or lead to wrongdoing, depending on the reaction of the tempted person. It is not sin in itself; one must accept it for it to result in sin, serving as a forerunner that warns of the potential for sin nearby. Temptation appeals to think or do something contrary to God's law, drawing one away from truth, virtue, and God's standard of righteousness through desires that attract in the wrong direction, enticing with the hope of reward or pleasure. Satan, referred to as the Tempter, uses temptation to lure into sin, as seen in the present participle of the Greek word *peirazo*, meaning to tempt. Resisting the devil, following Christ's example, causes him to flee. Temptation begins the process leading to sin and ultimately death, with God playing no part in tempting; rather, it stems from personal desires or satan's enticement.

The Greek term *peirasmos* (G3986), found in Matthew 6:13 within Jesus' Model Prayer, carries a broader meaning than just temptation, often implying a test or examination. God tests His people to discern their hearts and whether they will adhere to His commandments, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:2. In this context, Jesus likely intended *peirasmos* to refer to godly testing or a trial that strengthens faith, suggesting a plea such as, "Do not bring us to hard testing," or more idiomatically, "Do not put us to the test." This request implores God to be merciful in His evaluations, recognizing human frailty and seeking His compassion in the face of trials.