27 October 2021

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

From , NRSV.

Paul’s words to the Christians in Rome provide comfort for al those who have ever struggled to find the right words with which to pray or even to know what to pray for. Paul’s words assure us that the Spirit intercedes for us so that however feeble our words may be, the Spirit is able to deepen our prayer and to bring us closer to what God wants for us and those we pray for. Paul writes as someone who also knew the inadequacy of his own prayer but who nevertheless accepted the responsibility of developing his relationship with God in this way. His model was Christ who, regardless of his closeness to God, still prayed alone and with others.

• • What do you suppose made Paul so certain of the intercession of the Spirit in those who pray?
  • When have you felt the intercession of the Spirit in your prayer  – what made you think this was the case?

Reflect on the place prayer has in your life and on whether there are some changes you can make to deepen your relationship with God through prayer.