When I Don’t Know What to Pray

Today’s Scripture

Romans 8:26 (NET)
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how we should pray, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings.”

Reflection

Often, I think I know exactly what I need—only to later realize it was the very thing I didn’t. Or I’ll assume I’m strong in a certain area, only to be humbled by how truly weak I am. I’m convinced I don’t know myself or my needs nearly as well as I think I do. And spiritually, this is often even more true.

Romans 8 paints a picture of deep longing. Creation is groaning, aching for renewal and restoration. And then—right in the middle of that pain—Paul reminds us that we aren’t groaning alone. The Holy Spirit helps us pray, stepping in when words fail and when we can’t begin to articulate the cries of our heart.

There’s deep comfort in that. God doesn’t require perfect prayers. He doesn’t expect us to always know what to say. He gives us His own Spirit—who knows us completely, and knows the will of God perfectly—to intercede on our behalf.

Maybe you’ve been in that place: too exhausted to pray, too hurt to form the words. Or maybe you’re confused, unsure what to even ask God for. The Spirit meets you there. With groanings deeper than words, He carries your heart to the Father.

You don’t have to figure it all out before coming to God. The Holy Spirit helps us pray when we’re weak, when we’re unsure, when we’re worn. And that means you’re never praying alone.

Today's Prayer

Father, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit. I confess that sometimes I don’t know how to pray or what I even need. But You’ve given me help—Your own Spirit who understands my heart better than I do. Thank You that He intercedes for me, perfectly in line with Your will. Help me rest in that assurance when I feel too weak to speak. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Before You Go

There will be times when prayer feels difficult—when silence seems more honest than words. Don’t let that discourage you. Instead, lean into the help God has already provided. The Spirit groans with you, understands you, and prays for you. You may not always know what to say, but you can still show up, trusting that heaven hears. Let your silence be surrendered, and your heart stay open—because you’re never alone in prayer.