NACR Daily Meditation for Sunday, May 18, 2003

18 May 2003 07:00:05 -0000

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NACR Daily Meditation for Sunday, May 18, 2003

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In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what
we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself prays for us with groans that
words cannot express. 

Romans 8:26

When we are alone, when our private terrors have left us without the ability
to speak, when even the simplest of prayers ["Help!"] is more
that our weary hearts can muster - those are the times we need God's Spirit
most of all. 

It is life itself to know that God pays attention to us. The Spirit of the
Living God is with us and is attentive to our weakness. God does not shame
us for our weakness. Our weakness is not a bad thing to God. Our weakness
is simply a reality. The Spirit's response to our weakness is to help us.
God is on our side. The Spirit knows us and loves us. God knows the pain that
crushes us. God helps us in our weakness. 

In those moments when we have been silenced by life, the Spirit prays for
us. The Spirit prays with groans for which there is no language. When we are not
able to pray we can find comfort and hope in the promise that the Spirit
is praying for us. 

Oh God
I need to be reminded when I feel so absolutely alone
that you know my pain,
you know my weakness.

When I come to the end of words,
when my mind is full of confusion,
help me to remember that you pray for me.

When I am overwhelmed with despair,
when I want to give up,
when I want to run away in fear,
it is only your presence,
gentle, powerful Friend,
that gives me hope and strength.

I need your help today.
I need you to pray for me.
Amen

Copyright 1991 Dale and Juanita Ryan 

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ROOTED IN GOD'S LOVE (the book from which these meditations are taken, is back in print! To order call our office at 714-529-6227 ext 111 or order online at

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Meditations from previous days can be viewed at:  

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Plan now to join us at STEPS 2003, a national conference for Christians in recovery jointly sponsored by the NACR and Overcomers Outreach. It will be held June 26-28, 2003 in Southern California. Plenary speakers are Steve Arterburn, David Stoop, Rich Buhler, Sandra Wilson, Mark Laaser and Ann Kiemel Anderson. Over 45 workshops. Support groups. Specialized gatherings. And lots of fellowship and support for your recovery. Details as they become available and online registration will be at:

 http://www.nacronline.com/dox/steps2003.htm

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