Jan 16

There is one time of prayer in my life that I will never forget. There was nothing unusual about this particular conversation with my Father--at first. Neither was there any particular urgency in my requests. I was simply having a conversation with my friend and my Father.

But suddenly there was an urgency in my voice. Without meaning to, I found myself suddenly pleading with God, crying out from the depths of my heart for him to grant me something.

As I said, I had not intended for this to happen; I didn't think there was anything in my life right then that warranted such a heartfelt cry. Nevertheless, I suddenly found myself intensely crying out to God: "God, I need to know about love! Please, teach me about love. Show me how to love!"

As soon as those words escaped my lips, I quit praying, for I was stunned. Where had those words come from? I had not intended to ask for this. What was happening here?

It was only later that I learned from the Lord what had happened in that precious moment of talking with him. I had experienced the truth of Romans 8:26, 27: The very Spirit of God had interceded for me. He knew needs of my heart that I myself was not even aware of. And for me, that great need was for love and for an understanding of love.

I pray that as I continue to share with you what happened after that heartfelt moment that you also will grow in your knowledge of your own need for love.

Scripture for today: Romans 8:25-27
Thought for today: Jesus himself prays for me.
Prayer for today: Thank you, Lord, for praying for me. I need this so much, for I do not know how to pray as I ought.

JAN 16