December 8, 2008

Our Intercessor

“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit [is], because He makes intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to [His] purpose.” (Romans 8:26-28 NKJV)

Sometimes it may seem like a cliché to hear someone say, “All things work together for good.” It’s possible to think a person is being insensitive when they hand out such lofty information. However, these words are not to be discouraging. Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, penned these words so that we would not lose hope when overwhelmed by the circumstances of life. Face it, life doesn’t always go the way we think it ought.

I don’t understand how my loving Father can let me get into the messes I do. If I were running the show, to speak as a human, I would try to make everything easy. I think most people have felt this tension.

Therefore, Paul assures us that what is happening is not outside of the Lord’s will or control. He does this by telling us that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us according to the will of God. “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” (1 John 5:14-15 NKJV)

Now, if we receive everything that we ask of God when we ask according to His will, it is certain that we will receive accordingly because the Holy Spirit knows the mind of God perfectly. This is why Paul can say all things work together for good to those who love God. The Holy Spirit intercedes perfectly on our behalf.

Therefore, the next time someone shares this passage with you, receive it as God intended it, to be a comfort. Remember, we must live for the next world and not this one. Even though things may seem out of control, and you are at a loss for words, you may still have confidence in God’s providence. God is preparing you for heaven. Glorify Him by living the life of faith. Amen.