B. We Do Not Know How to Pray as We Ought.
CLASSIC SERMON OUTLINES — Matthew Henry the end from the way. "Ye know not what ye ask" (Matthew 20:22). We are like foolish children that are ready to cry for fruit before it is ripe (Luke 9:54-56).
1. Because we are shortsighted.
2. Because we are biased in favor of the flesh.
B. We Do Not Know How to Pray as We Ought.
1. Hindrances in prayer. As to the manner, we know not how to pray as" we ought. It is not enough that we do that which is good, but we must do it well; seek in a due order; and here we are often at a loss— graces are weak, | affections cold, thoughts wandering. It is not always easy for one to find it in his heart to pray (IJ Samuel 7:27).
2. Hindrances to prayer affect all believers. The Apostle speaks of the matter of not knowing how to pray in the first person: "We know not." He puts himself among the rest. Folly, weakness, and distraction in prayer are — that of which all the saints complain. If so great a saint as Paul knew not how to pray, what reason have we to go forth about that duty in our own strength?
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT'S AID IN PRAYER.
A. He Helps Our Infirmities.
1. The explanation. He helps our praying infirmities which most easily beset us in that duty. The Spirit in the Word of God helps—many rules and - promises are there for our help. The Spirit in the heart helps—dwelling in — -us, working in us, as the Spirit of grace and supplication; for this end the - Holy Spirit was poured out.
2. The requirement. He helps us as we help one that would lift up a burden, by lifting at the other end; He helps with us, with us doing our endeavor, - putting forth the strength we have. We must not sit still and expect that the ~ Spirit will do all. We cannot without God and He-will not without-us. relat renshy e
B. How He Helps Our Infirmities.
Oa: Die Untimals
1. By dictating our requests. The Spirit dictates our requests, inditesour petitions, draws up our plea for us. He as an enlightening Spirit teaches