The
Larger Catechism
Q. 182. How doth the Spirit help
us to pray?
A. We not knowing what to pray
for as we ought, the Spirit helpeth our infirmities, by enabling us
to understand both for whom, and what, and how prayer is to be made;
and by working and quickening in our hearts (although not in all
persons, nor at all times, in the same measure) those apprehensions,
affections, and graces which are requisite for the right performance
of that duty.
1. The Holy Spirit helps us to
pray. We need his help because of our spiritual ignorance and
spiritual weakness.
Likewise the Spirit also
helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for
as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with
groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts
knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession
for the saints according to the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27)
Johannes Vos writes: "How
does the Holy Spirit remedy our spiritual ignorance? Not by revealing
to us any truth apart from or in addition to the Bible, but by
opening our spiritual eyes so that we can discern the true meaning of
what is already in the Bible."
2. God prepares the hearts of
his people, that they may pray aright.
LORD, You have heard the
desire of the humble; You will prepare their heart; You will cause
Your ear to hear. (Psalm 10:17)
3.
God imparts to his people the desire and ability to pray.
And I will pour on the house
of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and
supplication. (Zechariah 12:10)
4.
We are to pray in the Spirit.
Praying always with all
prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end
with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.
(Ephesians 6:18)
But you, beloved, building
yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.
(Jude 1:20)
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