What Does It Mean to Pray in the Spirit? How Can I Do It?

by Magdalena Kessy | 21 October 2023 08:46 pm10

Many believers come across the phrase “pray in the Spirit” but aren’t always sure what it means—or how to actually do it. Let’s explore the biblical meaning, the spiritual significance, and practical ways to cultivate this kind of prayer life.

1. What Does the Bible Say About Praying in the Spirit?

There are two key passages in the New Testament that give insight into this kind of prayer:

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) – “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
Jude 1:20 (NIV) – “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit…”

These verses reveal that praying in the Spirit is not a one-time experience—it’s a lifestyle of ongoing, Spirit-empowered prayer that builds your faith and strengthens the Church.

2. Is It Only About Speaking in Tongues?

While speaking in tongues is one biblical expression of praying in the Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 14:14-15), it’s not the only one.

“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding…” – 1 Corinthians 14:14–15 (NIV)

Speaking in tongues is a gift of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10) and an important part of many believers’ prayer lives, but praying in the Spirit encompasses more than just that. It includes praying with divine guidance, intensity, alignment with God’s will, and through the power of the Holy Spirit—even if you are praying in your natural language.

3. What Is the Core Meaning of Praying in the Spirit?

To pray in the Spirit means to:

Pray under the influence and direction of the Holy Spirit.
Pray with the help of the Spirit, especially when we don’t know what to say.
Be in tune with God’s heart, not just repeating empty words.

Paul explains this beautifully in:

Romans 8:26 (NIV) – “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 intercedes for us through wordless groans.”

The term “groans that words cannot express” refers to deep spiritual longing—a prayer that bypasses the mind and touches the heart of God.

**4. What Does It Feel Like to Pray in the Spirit?**

Believers often describe spiritual prayer in different ways:

A deep burden or urgency to pray that doesn’t come from yourself.
Tears flowing naturally—not from sadness, but from a spiritual stirring.
A growing desire to keep praying, often for a specific person or issue.
A surprising sense of peace, joy, or strength, even after physical or emotional exhaustion.
Speaking in tongues spontaneously, led by the Spirit, not forced by effort.
A clear awareness of God’s presence—sometimes physically felt or sensed inwardly.

These are signs the Holy Spirit is helping you pray.

5. What Stops Us from Praying in the Spirit?

There are two main enemies of Spirit-filled prayer:

A. The Flesh (Our Human Nature)

“The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” – Matthew 26:41 (NIV)

Fatigue, distractions, laziness, and a desire for comfort all hinder spiritual depth. To overcome this:

Change your posture: kneel, pace, lift your hands—engage your body.
Eliminate distractions: silence your phone, find a quiet place.
Discipline your mind to focus solely on God.

B. The Devil (Spiritual Opposition)

Satan is not afraid of shallow or routine prayer. But when you start praying in the Spirit—he reacts.

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7 (NIV)

Distractions, confusion, physical discomfort, or sudden interruptions may occur. These are signs you need to spiritually take authority over your environment:

Begin with spiritual warfare: pray that God drives out every dark presence.
Declare the Lordship of Jesus over your space.
Rebuke the enemy if you sense resistance or interference.

6. How Can I Begin Praying in the Spirit?

Here’s a practical guide to grow into Spirit-filled prayer:

Prepare your heart – Come humbly before God, asking for His help.
Read Scripture – Use God’s Word to guide and inspire your prayer.
- e.g., “Lord, You said if we call, You will answer…” (Jeremiah 33:3)
- “You promised not to give a stone when your children ask for bread” (Matthew 7:9–11)
Focus deeply – Visualize God’s presence. Talk to Him as your Father.
Be still and wait – After some time, you may feel a shift—follow that flow.
Speak as you’re led – Don’t force anything. Whether it’s English, tongues, or silence—follow the Spirit’s prompting.

Don’t give up quickly. The more consistent you are, the deeper your prayer life becomes.

7. Final Encouragement

Praying in the Spirit is God’s will for every believer—not just a few. It’s not about performance, but relationship. As you press in, your heart and prayers will align with God’s will, and you’ll begin to see real spiritual breakthroughs.

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” – Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)

May the Lord bless you and deepen your prayer life. Share this message with others who hunger for more of God.

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Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2023/10/21/43184/