Vital Signs: Thursday, March 27, 2025

Praying in the Spirit

"Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere."— Ephesians 6:18 (NLT)

In his well-known passage on spiritual warfare, Paul urges us to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers” (Ephesians 6:18). But what exactly does that mean? What is the difference between praying in the Spirit and praying without the Spirit?

Praying in the Spirit means allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our prayers toward holy things. Later in the New Testament, James warns against praying with selfish motives—seeking only our health, wealth, and comfort. Instead, the Holy Spirit redirects our prayers away from self-centered desires and toward God's will.

This is why Christians have historically connected Scripture with prayer. When we read the Bible, we learn what God wants, and the most spiritual response is to pray accordingly:

"God, today You taught me about the forgiveness of Jesus. Thank You for forgiving me. Help my friend who doesn’t yet believe that Your forgiveness is for him."

"Jesus, You showed such patience in this passage. Thank You for being patient with me. Forgive me for my impatience yesterday."

Let the same Spirit who inspired the Scriptures also direct your prayers. That is how you pray in the Spirit.