“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.”

Romans 8:26

Throughout life, we enter into situations that leave us wondering what we should do next. Whether it’s in relationships, work, or things we can’t control, we make decisions both major and minor. In these times, we may reach out to God for guidance. However, Paul, in his letter to the church in Rome, makes an interesting point. 

When we reach out to God, we ask God for specific outcomes to our situations that benefit ourselves or those we love. While there is nothing wrong with this, we do not pray as we ought. Jesus, in his example of prayer in Matthew 6, tells us that we should pray for God’s will and not our own. This is often easier said than done. 

For instance, it is easier to pray that God provides more income or a promotion at work than it is to pray for God’s will, even if his will means a demotion or loss of a job. It is easier to pray for our loved ones to be healed even if God’s will is for them to pass. In these times, the Spirit who knows our heart’s desire intercedes for us.

He then works in our hearts to align our thoughts and desires with the will of God. This is a wondrous work of God. Even when our wants are misaligned with that of God, he works in our lives to bring us closer to his will. His desires are always to bring himself glory and to bring us good. Sometimes, that good comes from places we don’t understand. It could be through the death of a loved one that God brings about good in our lives. The loss of a loved one could draw us closer together with our friends and family, give us opportunities to show the love and Grace of God to others, or even lead someone to Christ. As Paul explains later in this chapter, God works all things to his glory and our good. 

This week, pray for the will of God in your life. If his will is something difficult, thank the Holy Spirit for his guidance and intercession on our behalf.