Unarticulated

"The Lord will raise him up," James 5:15.

Folks rightly speak of the efficacy of prayer. For example, we quote the Word: Prayer has great power. Over and again, the good book fills with examples of people at prayer. Jesus prayed many times. Sometimes folks mistakenly think that particular words spoken in a certain way or with such frequency then have some powerful magic associated with them. As though God can only hear properly sounded-out words. Sometimes folks so convinced seek to make the right sounds, perhaps in an uncommon or even unknown tongue, in hope that the utterances will exercise powerful effect. Perhaps, if we say the exact right phrase, then what we want will happen. First, God, not confused, hears every language spoken in earth or sky (they're his invention!). Second, God's Spirit guarantees God's clear understanding of every heart's intent, even unarticulated sighs. Third, God (not man) heals, God (not man) saves, God (not man) rules sovereign: Not our will, but Yours be done. God at work: his good, at his good pleasure.

As we pray with a brother or sister today, we find mutual calm that God hears us clearly whatever our poor dialect. And, together, we give heartfelt thanks to our God for raising us up in Christ.