When we are walking, or often more appropriate, stumbling, through trials in this life, it is tempting to lay down and let the darkness win. As God’s children though, we know we can lean on His promises for comfort in these dark times.
“His mercies are new every morning”
“His grace is sufficient”
“Even though I walk through the shadow of death I will fear no evil”
Excellent verses in troubled times. Tried and true. Tested by fire.
But…in the last few days I keep turning to another verse that may be less known to some of you.
“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered“. (Click for context)
I am struck by the fact that when I do not have the words, the Holy Spirit within me SPEAKS to GOD on my behalf…with groanings.
So the Holy Spirit groans to God about me? Not exactly.
John Calvin said it best “And the Spirit is said to intercede, not because he really humbles himself to pray or to groan, but because he stirs up in our hearts those desires which we ought to entertain; and he also affects our hearts in such a way that these desires by their fervency penetrate into heaven itself”. (Italics mine)
I am mute before the Lord and it is okay. He still hears me. And by His Holy Spirit I am given the words to plead before my Father regarding my situation. To ask and receive the mercy and comfort and grace I seek.
On my own, I am unable to adequately pray hard enough or good enough to open the gates of Heaven. But by God’s Holy Spirit…oh, my friend, now I am on to something!
The darkness has to flee when you are holding the light…
I was encouraged by reading this today! Thank you!
So glad it spoke to you!!