Taking Hold Together

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:26-28)

Christians often quote Romans 8:28 and say that God will work everything out for His good, so they simply “lie back” and watch to see how God will resolve it. I have news for you: God doesn’t work that way. Paul wasn’t writing about random, automatic outcomes for people who believe in God. He was describing the supernatural partnership between believers and the Holy Spirit. The reason verse 28 happens is that in verses 26 and 27, the Spirit is already interceding and groaning through you.

Paul said, “The Spirit helps our infirmities.” The Greek word for helpeth is synantilambanomai and it means to take hold together with, against. In other words, the Spirit doesn’t do it for you; He does it with you. He is waiting for you to pray and put His power on top of it. If you don’t engage in prayer, then the Holy Spirit has nothing to work with.

This isn’t just about praying in your native language. While your natural prayers are good, your emotions, thoughts, and biases can influence them. However, praying in the Spirit bypasses your mind and directly aligns with what God wants to be done in a situation. Paul was reminding believers that we have a role in this process. If you neglect your time in prayer and don’t read the Word, don’t be surprised when chaos surrounds you. God will allow whatever you permit to happen.

Practical Application

- Before making any major decision, spend time praying in the Holy Spirit. Don’t just pray in your own language; pray for God’s will, then pause to see if the Holy Spirit is guiding you differently. Follow His lead by speaking in His language first.

Romans 8:35; Romans 8:30