Dual intercession
"Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”(NIV) Hebrews 7:25
There is a profound sense of relief when we realize the genuine thoughtfulness of others towards us, especially when it comes from loved ones. However, nothing compares to the magnificent dealings of Heaven toward us - the depth of God's care for us is simply immeasurable.
The Holy Spirit, our divine Counselor, intervenes in our weaknesses, expressing our unspoken and ill-spoken prayers with wordless groans (Romans 8:26-27). Like a parent comforting a child with soothing whispers, the Spirit speaks on our behalf, understanding the depths of our hearts when words fail us.
Likewise, Jesus, our compassionate Savior, stands at the right hand of God, interceding for us (Romans 8:34), comparable to a faithful advocate in a courtroom, tirelessly pleading our case before the divine Judge, ensuring that no condemnation can separate us from God's love.
Practically, the Holy Spirit guides our prayers, illuminating our hearts to align with God's will (Ephesians 6:18). Through moments of doubt or confusion, the Spirit empowers us to pray with confidence, knowing that our petitions are heard and understood.
Similarly, Jesus' intercession extends beyond words to actions. His sacrificial love serves as the ultimate intercession, securing our redemption and reconciliation with God (Hebrews 7:25). Having experienced human trials firsthand, the Lord Jesus empathizes with our struggles too and there cannot be a better summary when Paul was inspired to indicate that:
"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. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God...Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died-more than that, who was raised to life-is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us."(Romans 8:26-27,34)
Thus, while mortals may forget to intercede for us, we have no doubt that two members of the Godhead are tirelessly interceding on our behalf before our Heavenly Father in fullness. Glory be to God!