Groanings

"And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons."  -Romans 8:23

       This passage is a needed corrective to my ability to groan.  I picture myself on my knees in prayer, wrestling with God, groaning alone.  I hope that my groaning will be heard in heaven.  I hope that it will result in answers to prayer that I or a loved one sorely need.
       I am challenged to think differently now.  As I kneel to pray, Another comes to kneel as well.  I begin to pray and to groan.  The One beside me begins to groan as well.  Suddenly, I am taken aback by the deep intensity of His groans.  My groans suddenly seem shallow and self-centered.  My groans are half-hearted.  There is an end to the strength of my groaning. 
       Paul says the groans of the Holy Spirit are too deep for words. His groanings are altogether holy.  The Spirit clearly sees the distance between how things are and how things will be.  He has the divine power to groan like Jesus at the tomb of Lazarus.  He has all the power to groan for what will usher in healing and restoration.
       Let me groan in step with the Spirit.  It helps to know that when I hurt or someone I love hurts in a way I am helpless to meet, He groans as well.   Let my groans match His as we pray for the things that matter.  Holy Spirit:
1.  Join me in my groaning so that I am not alone in it.
2.  Still my groanings for lusts and passions and pleasures and material things that will not satisfy.
3.  Purify my sight so that I might understand Your groaning and join you in it.
4.  Give me strength to groan with increased intensity for the things which cause Your great heart to groan as well.