Romans 8:26-27
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. Romans 8:26-27 (NIV)
Most of us do not have this problem. The list of whom and what to pray for is usually quite long. Often it is endless. And that only covers what we are asking for. In fact, we often forget that the point of prayer is actually to thank God for what he has blessed us with, and to ask Him, as a humble sinner, to forgive our multitude of sins.
But, as we so often do, we miss the point and turn prayer into reciting a glorified Christmas wish list. Or, to put it differently, we are asking God to make things right in our world and for things that will make our lives better.
Unfortunately, by doing this, we are not being humble before our God. God knows our needs and desires, and the Holy Spirit will intercede as God deems necessary. While it is completely right and good to ask God to help others in need or bless those we lift up in prayer, we should remain humble when it comes to ourselves. God certainly doesn’t expect us to live our lives without asking for His help. We can still be humble and ask God for strength or wisdom when dealing with a difficult decision or situation in our lives.
So, when you find yourself on your knees in prayer before God, how will you act? Will you thank Him for your blessings and humbly ask His forgiveness for your sins? Or will you recite your Christmas wish list?
I know what I will do.
Thanks be to God!
Questions for Reflection:
- How do you handle prayer?
- Are your prayers humble or are you reciting a “Christmas list”?
- How will you change your approach?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, please help us to look to you for the guidance, inspiration, love and hope that we seek. Help us as well to truly appreciate your gifts of love, grace and your Son Jesus. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.
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