What does the Bible say about praying in the spirit?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that believers pray in the Spirit by relying on the Holy Spirit’s help, praying with sincere faith, understanding, and submission to God’s will. Romans 8:26-27 comforts us that the Spirit helps our weakness and intercedes when we do not know what to pray. Ephesians 6:18 and Jude 1:20 call Christians to continual, Spirit-dependent prayer as they stand firm in faith. First Corinthians 14:14-15 shows that prayer should engage both spirit and mind, rather than becoming empty or unintelligible speech. True prayer is worship offered to God in spirit and truth, through Christ, not a technique for producing certain experiences.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Romans 8:26 7 votes
In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don't know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can't be uttered.
- Ephesians 6:18 7 votes
with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints:
- Jude 1:20 5 votes
But you, beloved, keep building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.
- Romans 8:26-27 5 votes
[26] In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don't know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can't be uttered. [27] He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit's mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.
- 1 Corinthians 14:15 3 votes
What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also. I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
- 1 Corinthians 14:14 3 votes
For if I pray in another language, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.
- John 4:24 3 votes
God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth."
- Romans 8:27 3 votes
He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit's mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.
- Matthew 6:7 2 votes
In praying, don't use vain repetitions, as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking.
- 1 Corinthians 14:2 2 votes
For he who speaks in another language speaks not to men, but to God; for no one understands; but in the Spirit he speaks mysteries.
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