Romans 8:26 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. 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
This paragraph gives me such comfort. Have you ever not gotten something you really thought you wanted, and then found that it was a good thing you didn’t get it? I certainly have! Just as in suffering it is wrong to just demand that God do what I think I want Him to do, so it is in my prayer life (notice the “Likewise” in the first verse). I don’t know everything. I don’t see every aspect of every situation. I don’t know the future. Honestly and simply, I don’t know what is best. But God does. He does. Not only does God know what is best, He also loves me perfectly, and will always work to accomplish His will in my life. Always. Even when it doesn’t make sense to me.
Once again I am in complete wonder and awe at God’s love and care for me. He gives the Holy Spirit to intercede for me. I don’t have to agonize over whether or not I “prayed that exactly right.” God takes care of working everything for my good. Psalm 119:26 states, “When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes!” The psalmist laid out his heart’s cry before God, and then asked God to teach Him what the right thing was. What is Your will, Lord? What do You want?
The final two verses of this paragraph speak such love and care to me. Yes, they are huge words of theology and sovereignty. But really, to me, they are words of comfort and care. God knows me. He chose me. He saved me. He keeps me. God has a purpose for me. I am His forever. Praise His glorious Name!!
Plea for Grace 