Monday, January 30, 2012

An Interceding Spirit

"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. 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." (Romans 8:26-27 ESV)

Augustine was a well known leader in the early church. Most of you might be familiar with his most popular work, Confessions. Growing up Augustine lived a pretty "worldly" life which led his mother to constantly pray for him. One particular prayer was for Augustine not to be able to go on a trip to Rome. She prayed, "Oh Lord, do not let him go to Rome because he will only get into further debauchery." So what was God's answer? He allowed Augustine to go to Rome. It just so happens that Rome is the place where Augustine transformed into a believer! You see, the Spirit interceded and lined up the mother's desire with the will of God. God said no to her request but yes to the desire of her heart. No wonder the next verse in Romans reads...

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28 ESV)

With peace thanks to Jesus,

Terry

1 comment:

Jerry Price said...

Great stuff Terry. I'm glad the Spirit has our back when we pray. Often I struggle with "just" how to talk to the Lord and then I realize he's not worried about that. Appreciate your thoughts. Jerry Price