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. Romans 8:26-28 (ESV) 

Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)

Insight

When life becomes exceedingly painful, our minds often cannot comprehend the reasons behind our circumstances. There is a time for us to cease to rely on our own understanding a lean upon the Lord from the heart.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB)

God is sovereign over all creation, time, and circumstances. We can safely rely on him to protect us in every situation and be with us in all circumstances. King David learned that God was with him in “the valley of the shadow of death,” which gave him confidence to “fear no evil.”

When our hearts and minds are overwhelmed with sorrow, fear, confusion, or anger, we can take a “leap of faith” based on the truth of God’s Word by thanking God for our present situation and asking him to work things out for his glory. This is not to say that the situation is good, in itself, but that our good God will work things for our good.

When we proclaim this truth aloud with thanksgiving, it breaks chains of fear and doubt. In addition, we can ask God to not only work things out for our good, but also for his glory. When we pray like this, we cannot help but pray according to his will, and he will surely hear and answer our prayers. The person who prays like this will become an overcomer.

I believe that the devotional prayer language in “tongues” is available to us today. 1 Corinthians 14 teaches us that when we pray in tongues (in the spirit) we pray in a real language under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and give thanks well; despite not understanding what we are saying. But God does understand.

Romans 8:26 tells us that the Spirit “helps” us, which literally means “takes hold with us against” our infirmities and weaknesses. When we pray in the spirit, the Holy Spirit prays through us, and in partnership with us, prayers that exactly conform to God’s will.

If you wish to learn more, please read my book, Promise of the Father, which is all about the baptism and gifts of the Spirit. My first book, Seeing God's Smile (When Life Is Difficult) can also help you understand how to cope with the painful and confusing events of life. Simply click on the "Book" tab on the menu at the top of the page. 

Prayer

Lord, I do not understand why you have allowed these circumstance into my life. (Be specific.) However, I believe that you are Lord of every area of my life and over all creation. I believe your promise that you are working all my circumstances for my good, even though it cannot see how right now. I ask you to glorify yourself through my life and situation. Let my attitude be an example to others and a glory to you. Thank you, Lord, for making me an overcomer. Thank you, Lord, for giving me faith and strength to endure. I thank you in advance for answering my prayer. (If God begins to reveal to you his will in your situation, begin to proclaim that prophetically by faith. Doing so can be part of the process of being set free.) Amen.