Romans 8:22-27 (NRSV)
Read Romans 8:22-27 on biblegateway.com
Verse 22We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; Verse 23and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. Verse 24For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? Verse 25But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Verse 26Likewise 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. Verse 27And 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.
Devotion
Love That Prays For Us
"I'm praying for you." What comforting words to hear from one you love and respect, especially when going through a time of struggle. Today we're reminded that this also is a gift from the Spirit! These words from Romans bring the good news that the Holy Spirit is praying for us.
Yes, we do pray, but often with hurried distraction and limited knowledge of what is best for us. We agonize in prayer unsure of God's will or how and for what to ask. The good news is that help is available now! The very best help. There's help waiting because the Spirit is right now interceding for us. It's adequate because the Spirit knows the will of God for us. Because sin and evil within and all around us can overwhelm and discourage us, we must grasp this ever-ready God-given hope. This hope knows and believes that help is on the way even now, because the Spirit is interceding for us.
Prayer
All knowing God, thank you for the Holy Spirit always going ahead of us with love to intercede for us. Amen.