“Likewise, the Spirit also helps our infirmity; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered” (Romans 8:26). What on earth is Paul talking about here?

Paul had just said in vv.20-25 that the world in which we live was made subject to vanity (hopelessness) and bondage of corruption, that the whole creation groans and travails until now. Even we believers groan within ourselves, waiting for the delivery, which we continue to hope for. The “Likewise” connects verse 26 to the previous paragraph.

The great benefit we believers have over the hopeless world creation, is that we have a Helper, the Spirit of God, who “helps our infirmity” (weakness). When we’re caught in the hopelessness and unfairness of this lost world, “the Spirit Himself makes intercession (prays) for us“. And what kind of prayer? “With groanings which cannot be uttered“. No one can define that kind of prayer, though many have tried. Its not supposed to be understood by us.

The point is that God’s Spirit, being God in nature, communicates in a way our finite minds cannot grasp. But groanings always refers to agony. God’s Spirit grieves for our pain and injustice; and does something about it. I can expect results because the Spirit of the Living God intercedes for me. My faith doesn’t intercede, God’s Spirit does. My faith learns to rest in the Spirit’s prayer and workings. My faith reaches out in desperation to connect with the God who hides.

Draw close to the Lord today, unload your injustice and pain to Him, and watch what He does in your life.

Tags: Holy Spirit, prayer