If you have ever written a paper on a computer, you know the value of the word count on the bottom of the screen. You have likely stared out it, hoping to hit the key number of words so you can call it done. I think the worst part of the word count is zero. When you sit down to begin, you see the zero glaring up at you, almost taunting you – daring you to begin. Those are the times we can find ourselves brain-locked, unable to form a complete sentence. I don’t know about you, but there were times when I would put my name and the date on the top, just to move past the zero mark. It was intimidating and held me back from starting. I had zero words.
As someone who now writes often (and not for a grade), I don’t worry about the word count. Those days are long gone. But I do find myself with zero words to say sometimes. I know it can be difficult to think I have nothing to say. But there are times and situations for which I have nothing. I am confused and completely speechless. The loss of loved ones can have this effect, especially when we have lost loved ones before we think it is their time to go. I look at the families left behind and I have nothing. I think of all the heartache and deep longing – and I have nothing. There are so many things we feel which do not have words. There is no language in all the world that allows for the feelings that form in the depths of our soul.
It is in these times – the times when words are insufficient – that I feel most connected to the writings of Paul in Romans 8:25-27, “25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. 27 And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”
Help us in our weakness, guide us through the prayers when words are insufficient, and an intercession of sighs too deep for words – YES – this is where we can find ourselves. We don’t need words. We don’t need answers. Nothing is required of us, because zero words are completely okay. And I rest knowing that God understands.
May God help you in your weakness today. May he guide you through your prayers. May he intercede with sighs too deep for words. May you know that there are no words sometimes, only the love of God. And that is enough.
Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery. Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery
SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 