Has it happened to you that when you decide to dedicate more time to prayer, you kneel, prepare to talk to the Lord and go blank? Sure, you can mention a few words about what you need Him to do for you and your family, but you should pray for more than that, right?

Yes, you should. The needs of the believer are in fact the Father's concern, nothing escapes him. However, he tells his children to "not only look out for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too." (Philippians 2:4 NLT)

Selfless prayer may not come naturally to us, but thank God He has provided us with a Helper, the Holy Spirit, who is willing and able to pray effectively, interceding for us (Romans 8:26).

How should we cooperate with the Holy Spirit? First, we must recognize God's authority, holiness, and glory. Then, we need to submit to His direction. Finally, we must entrust our future to Him, believing that He will turn both negative and positive events in our lives into great good.

In submission to the Holy Spirit, we will discover peace and joy. And as we present petitions inspired by the Holy Spirit, we will also find new words to pray to the Father.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You left us the Helper, Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord, that when I don't know what to say in prayer, Your Spirit intercedes for me. Lord, I acknowledge Your authority, Your holiness, and Your glory. Help me to submit daily to Your Spirit, and to be aware of Your presence in me. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

1.    Romanos 8:26-27 (NTV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.