Our cat Watson communicates with us without words. He
murmurs, groans, yowls, meows, and chirps. We know him well enough to
understand what he is trying to say and why. He expresses his feelings quite
well—all without words.
Most of the time my prayers are coherent and expressed with words. But sometimes they are lifted in a similar fashion to Watson’s communications. Confusion, hurt, ignorance, and anger can block my ability to pray. I don’t know WHAT to pray, or HOW I should be praying. Tears can stream down my face and erupt in sobs from grief. I murmur in frustration or growl in anger.
Praise God, He knows my heart! God “gets” us. He understands me better than I understand Watson! In fact, when words fail me, God’s Spirit steps in! Romans 8:26 says, “In the same way the Spirit [comes to us and] helps us in our weakness. We do not know what prayer to offer or how to offer it as we should, but the Spirit Himself [knows our need and at the right time] intercedes on our behalf with sighs and groanings too deep for words.” (AMP).
If I, in my limited abilities, can figure out when Watson needs fed, would enjoy a drink from the sink, wants out, doesn’t want to be brought back in, would like petted, doesn’t want bothered, and just needs a little time nuzzling with me, then God, in His infinite wisdom and understanding, already comprehends what we are struggling to pray.
And that gives me peace. Prayer doesn’t require just the right words expressing a clear understanding of my need coming from a position on my knees with my hands folded reverently. We need not fear that we are failing to connect with God or that we are being obtuse in conveying our needs.
God’s Spirit living in us is already in direct communication with God the Father. God’s Spirit is mediating for us—and He doesn’t need words—sighs and groans will do.
Be encouraged!
©2023 Pamela D. Williams.
