Romans 8.26-27 Pray in the Spirit

In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.Romans 8:26‭-‬27 NASB

Romans 8 is talking about living life in the Spirit. There is a great advantage in being filled with the Spirit of God.

Verse 26 shows the advantage of praying in the Spirit. Don't confuse the term "praying in the Spirit" with "praying in tongues" (see 1 Corinthians 14.2). There is nothing in this passage to indicate that it is addressing the subject of praying in tongues.

Rather, the image is of a person who is in the Spirit, and is in prayer.

As long as we are in this life, our prayer is limited. Perhaps we know what to pray for, or perhaps we don't. In either case, our capacity for prayer, and our ability to approach God is incomplete. We do not have complete spiritual knowledge in this life.

1 Corinthians 13.12 says, "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known."

So it is with prayer. We are to come boldly before the throne of grace. God wants us to pray, and the Spirit within us will teach us.

Even so, we have human weaknesses as long as we are in these mortal bodies.

But our prayers are not ineffectual. What we lack is made up for by the Spirit of God. When we don't know how to pray, the Spirit of Christ intercedes to the Father on our behalf.

Since the Spirit is within us, he knows our deepest thoughts, needs and desires. And, since He is God, His intercession for us is always according to His will.

So, when you come to God in prayer, don't pray by rote. Turn your mind fully to God, and pray in the Spirit. Allow Him to lead you in prayer, and He will teach you what to pray, how to speak to God, and how to listen to God.

Never be afraid that your prayers are not enough. If you pray according the Spirit of God, then you can be assured that they are heard by God. And whatever you lack, He will intercede for you.