Romans 8:26: Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
If we are honest with ourselves, we must all admit there are times when we cannot pray. There have been times when my children were so desperately ill and the urgency so great that I could scarcely converse with God. At best I may have said a few words, “but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” There have been times when something has been said to us that is so devastating and we are so hurt we cannot pray, “but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” One day some of us will lie in hospitals with catheters and IVs, and we will not have the will to pray or even put two thoughts together, “but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” The Holy Spirit expresses those things we feel but cannot articulate. The Holy Spirit does not give armchair advice. He rolls up his sleeves and helps us bear our weakness. That is real help. 1
Application
- In your complete weakness, turn your heart to Jesus and His Spirit will bring your heartfelt intentions to the throne of grace.
- You have hope because God is for you. Even when you have very little to give, He gives His all for you, all the time.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for never ceasing to pray for me, especially when I am weak and wordless.
1. Hughes, R. K. (1991). Romans: righteousness from heaven. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.