Romans 8:26-27 (ESV)
“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. And He who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”
Reflection:
Confidence. Is this something you possess? Perhaps you are confident in specific skills whilst lacking confidence in others. Through study and practice you grow, increasing your knowledge and ability. This is the same for our spiritual journey. By God’s grace, we spend time in the Word, prayer and other spiritual disciplines. Through these practices, He shapes us into the likeness of His Son. Yet, v26 shows us the utter dependence we have on the Spirit of God. This is a tremendous encouragement. It should bring peace to our hearts and minds. It declares to each of us, “your prayer alone is not sufficient,” and, “it is not solely dependent upon you.” But praise be to the Father, for there is a wholly sufficient prayer, one that is from God to God. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us, on our behalf. It is done according to the will of God. Here is a confidence that cannot be shaken. We cannot practise for this confidence, we cannot learn this confidence. What we can do, is rest in this confidence, knowing that God the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness.
Prayer outline:
Thank You, Father, for giving us Your Holy Spirit. He is truly the One who comes alongside us. As I pray during these uncertain days, may I know in my heart the certainty of Your intercession. Open my eyes to see Your hand at work in my life and in the lives of those around me. I thank You for the grace that has been given to each of us. May Your peace guard my heart and mind, in Jesus’ name. Amen.