ISAIAH 62 PRAYER LETTER

SEPTEMBER 2015

 

“… For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought...” (Romans 8:26)

It is quite remarkable that in the preceding chapters and verses Paul, more than ten times, boldly asserts, “I know”, “we know” and “you know” in reference to various doctrines. But then he speaks about one thing of which he apparently was sure the church in Rome was ignorant, namely, prayer: “For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought…”

Isn’t this a striking description of many Christians today? We all are certain of many biblical truths, and regarding many doctrines we can confidently state, “I know”, “we know”, “you know” or “don’t you know?” But when it comes to prayer, we all feel like illiterates. Augustine stated that we often do not know how to pray, as our view of the future is different to God’s view. Furthermore, many things in this life may seem positive but are in fact negative, and vice versa. This is not a new phenomenon. Paul felt that it characterized the early church and was even part of the disciples’ lives. Even Jesus had to correct them, “You do not know what you ask.” “Lord, teach us to pray,” was the desperate plea of the disciples. When it comes to prayer we all need help.

“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)

It is precisely in this seemingly desperate situation that Paul encourages us. It is the Holy Spirit who helps us in our weakness. He not only draws our hearts into the presence of Jesus; He knows us better than we know ourselves, and the Spirit knows perfectly the mind of Christ. This means the groanings that He utters through us are the heart of God’s will, and there is thus an assurance of God answering our prayers.

As we enter another day of prayer, invite the Holy Spirit to guide your prayers. Allow him to pray through you. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit of supplication. This is particularly important as we pray for Israel and the Middle East. While the Word of God reveals to us His final purposes, we may not know the way that God will accomplish this. Therefore, let us allow the Holy Spirit to pray through us today, and our prayers will accomplish much.

Yours in Christ,

 

Jürgen Bühler

 

 

Prayer Points for September 2015:

 

For Israel:

• Please pray for the current government of Israel, that they lead the nation with wisdom and understanding.

• Pray for the children in Israel who are beginning a new school year, and for the graduates who, during this season, will be joining the Israeli Armed Forces.

• Pray for the local churches and congregations and their pastors and leaders, that God will use them to advance his purposes.

 

For the Middle East:

• Pray for discernment and clarity as western nations deal with Iran and its nuclear ambitions.

• Pray for the many refugees that are fleeing from the murderous regime of ISIS. Pray in particular for the believers and churches, that God will use them to spread His light in the midst of this increasing darkness.

 

For the ICEJ:

• Pray for the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles, that God will draw the multitudes from the nations to Jerusalem. Pray for a special anointing of the Holy Spirit on each participant and pilgrim.

• Pray for a continued increase in resources to bless Israel in an even greater way.

• Pray for the leadership of the ICEJ, for God’s wisdom and guidance in all the decisions that are made.