Praying When We Don't Know How To Pray

There are so many complicated issues around the world that affect millions from disease to natural disasters, to political oppression.  However complex and overwhelming any current crisis is we can find comfort in these truths:

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28

That’s wonderful news but I like the verses that come just before those words as well because God’s plan is that you and I be involved in bringing His purposes and plans alive in our world in our time. And truthfully, I often don’t understand enough to really know even how to pray about what is going on.  So these words really lift me up:

The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. Romans 8:26-27

Heavenly Father, in times such as these we certainly need the Holy Spirit's help in order to join You in seeking what is right and best for us, our own country, and all the nations of the world. 

There seem to be so many destabilizing voices and forces around us and we pray to stand steady and strong with You in the middle of it all and give effective witness to Your good will and plan even in these times. 

Grant us wisdom to live as Your sons and daughters, as those who care and those who get involved in the hurting angry world that is ours today in a way that demonstrates Your heart and Your power. Amen

Aren’t we glad that God is both willing and able to work in such a way that good will come out of even the worst of what humans do? Let’s believe that and keep speaking to God about that today.