Not On My Own

Scripture:
Romans 8:26-27 — “In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”

Observation:
I like the words, “In the same way…” Just as I can confidently depend on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit to help me endure with strong perseverance as v.25 says, I can pray with the same strong confidence. The same Spirit that helps me flee temptation, that strengthens me when I am weak and comforts me when I am suffering, is the One who prays for me and through me when I am at a loss for words. When the pain I sense in others is so deep that prayer is hard to voice, I am comforted that the Spirit intercedes within me “according to the will of God.” I can have complete rest because “He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is…”

Application:
It seems that every week I encounter people in one form of crisis or another for whom I want to pray. I see the hurt and long to say something that is going to lighten the load or penetrate and lift the heavy veil of darkness they feel. But so often I feel inadequate to voice or to even think of such words. Sometimes I wonder if my prayer can scale the mountain of hopelessness they feel. I find great comfort and peace knowing that the Holy Spirit is at that moment interceding for me and that His prayer is right on target!

Prayer:
Father, thank You for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit! I know that today I will discover people’s needs and hurts that are too deep and too overwhelming for me to know how to lift them to You. Thank You, Holy Spirit, that you will care for them and pray for them just the way they need You! I thank You that when the pain of my own circumstances becomes so great that my faith begins to weaken, You will be there for me carrying me to the Father. Help me to remember today that there is great comfort and peace as I rest and trust in You.

— Jeff Holland, congregational care pastor, Reservoir campus