Romans 8:26
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
This passage is part of Paul’s description of waiting for Jesus’ return. The section heading in my translation is: Present Suffering and Future Glory. Sometimes we may not know the words for what we need to pray. I am wondering if Paul is describing one of those times when it is best for me to listen, even in prayer. I don’t think I spend nearly enough time listening for and listening to God. Prayer is not a one-way message delivery system.
Holy Lord, I am so thankful for the guidance of your Holy Spirit. Help me to listen more while in prayer. Amen
Becky , transforming
Pic by Kathy C.
Romans 8:26
I saw an interesting post on Facebook a week ago. I think it was called the I don’t know prayer. It starts with a simple “I don’t know. I don’t know what is happening. I don’t know how to process this. I don’t know what to do with these emotions. I don’t know how to handle this situation.” BUT then you say, “But you know.” I’m sure God hears that prayer. Sometimes you don’t need specifics or even words. God knows.
Prayer: Gracious God, I know you hear my feeble prayers, no matter how I say them. Amen
Prayer
Wednesday, July 24th, 2024
Romans 8:26
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
Just because we do something a lot doesn’t mean we’re good at it. In the middle of Romans 8:26, the apostle Paul says, “We do not know what we ought to pray for.”
Letting God know us is essential in our relationship with him. This means the same as it does in any relationship: we must speak about our life, share our feelings and reveal ourselves openly. Honestly is an essential part of prayer. Imagine God in front of us,…
Romans 8:26
That the Spirit intercedes when we are at a loss for words in prayer is a comforting thought. There are many mornings (this one included) where a name will come up for prayer and I find myself at a loss for words. The Spirit knows the needs of that person and will fill in my blanks. Even now in my 68th year, I sense I have barely scratched the surface of the power of prayer, but reliance on the Holy Spirit more than makes up for my personal limitations.
Prayer - Spirit of God, I depend on You to aid and augment my feeble efforts at intercessory prayer. When I pray, please take my petitions to the next…