Embracing Our Omnipotent Support in Knowing and Doing the Will of God.

Romans 8:26 is another often-quoted verse from this chapter. Remember that its truth must be understood in the context of the spiritual security and assurance of the believer.

The Roman recipients of this letter were not spiritually struggling or weak, so that is not the primary application of this verse. It addresses the periodic struggle to know, understand, and apply God's will found in His Word. We can safely assume that every believer has a normal desire to learn and grow in Christ (John 10:27). However, we can face barriers to doing God's will:

• Unwillingness to change
• Altered relationships
• Exhaustion (Galatians 6:9)
• Lack of discipline (Hebrews 10:24-25)
• Difficult decisions (2 Peter 1:3)

The Holy Spirit has a perpetual prayer ministry before God's throne that you would know, understand, and obey His Word. If you truly want to know and do God's will, you need not wonder if you are a child of God.

The Nature of the Spirit of God's Help

"In the same way" refers to Romans 8:25. The Holy Spirit waits for our glorification just as eagerly as we do. He also knows that we shoulder an obligation to know and do His Word in the meantime. It is in His nature to help you know and live the Word of God better. He knows doing this will only increase your hope, and He wants it to grow.

The Nurture of the Spirit's Help

The word for "help" in this verse is a compound of 3 Greek words. It means to hold or bear weight together with someone on their behalf. The Spirit does not necessarily remove our load, but He helps us bear it. When we are feeling weak in our understanding or application of Scripture, and we don't even know what or how to pray, the Holy Spirit prays for us to understand. His intercession should be the first place we turn, before asking another believer.

Next, we will discuss The Necessary Means of the Spirit's Help.

Application Points

• We must be growing in anticipation for Christ's return as we learn more of God's Word (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Are you growing in your excitement to see Jesus?

• Where do you turn first when you don't understand Scripture or are struggling to apply it? Do you seek the Holy Spirit first? There is no better person to illuminate Scripture than the One who inspired it!

Tools for Further Study

Cross References to Explore

• 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2 – Growing in our knowledge and application of God's Word.