Pulpit Notes: Communicating Without Words

The 911 emergency system is amazing. When 911 is dialed, a person is connected with a dispatcher who sees on a screen the exact location of the phone from which the caller is dialing, the name of the telephone listing, and the closest police, fire department, and paramedic units.

This is important because a caller might not be able to communicate the problem. Someone might be having a heart attack, or be so hysterical over the needs of a loved one that he or she cannot communicate effectively. The wonder of 911 technology, however, is that, to send help, the dispatcher does not need the dialer to say anything.

In life, we all face times of uncertainty and distress. Sometimes, in desperation, we are unable to even put our thoughts into words. At times like this, we should rejoice, for God in the person of the Holy Spirit already knows our circumstance and our need. Even though we might not be able to speak, or do not know the right words to say, we are assured in Scripture that the Spirit will intercede on our behalf.

Even if you cannot verbalize your need today, approach God in prayer, confident of the Spirit’s ability and desire to intercede. God stands ready to help.

“In the same way the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but that very Spirit intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And God, who searches our hearts, knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will.”  (Romans 8:26-27)

Soli Deo Gloria,
Conrad

Reverend Dr. Conrad C. Sharps
Senior Pastor