“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Romans 8:26-28

It’s crazy to think how I used to be so rigid in my routines and so stressed when things were out of order. And as it still drives me a little bit crazy when my plans are upended, God shows Himself every step of the way reminding me that He is for me. He is for my family. He is powering us through. And I am ever mindful that when God is for us, in whatever this world brings our way, nothing can be against us.

On this particular day, I made an unexpected and unplanned trip to our farm. I usually take lots of stuff to do, but this day, I chose to only take my Bible, my camera, and my coffee! I didn’t know that God had planned this day of rest just for me. A day of calm before a chaotic storm. But He knew. And for that I’m grateful.

I was taking pictures of the playful and peaceful butterflies feasting on the nectar of the thistles. But it wasn’t until I downloaded the pictures, that I saw the praying mantis! And as I look back, seventeen days later, I recognize the beauty of the day and the presence of my Savior who was preparing me for battle.

As I sat planning the scheduled week ahead, Jesus sat in the place of honor, at God’s right hand, pleading for me (Romans 8:34). Praying for me for the energy to endure the days ahead. For the wisdom and insight to make hard decisions. For the strength to remain rooted in Him and righteous in my words and deeds (cause that ain’t easy for sure when I’m under stress). But most of all, I know He was praying for me to find the joy and blessing of being able to fulfill His purpose in me, for me, and through me, even in this challenging time.

So often in life, we forget to pray. Or even when we do, we have no idea how to pray, what to pray for, or even what is to come that we need to pray for. But we can be thankful that we have an advocate, an intercessor, a sovereign and loving Savior, who knows exactly what we need!

We can be confident and comforted in knowing that we are being prayed for and prepared for something. Whether our days ahead are good days or bad days, we can be assured that we are not alone.

And just as this mantis came into view only when I took a closer look, the prayers of our Father come into view when we reflect on what was and what is! We can embrace the promise of knowing, that even though our plans may be derailed, He is already on it! He is leading us to truth, preparing our character, strengthening our faith, making a way, and manifesting His Sprit in our hearts so that He can be made known in the midst.

Do you believe that God is, that God can, and that God will? I pray today that you do, and that you recognize our greatest prayer warrior with anticipation, thanksgiving and praise.

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.”

John 14:16-17

Saturday Soul Search