Let’s explore one hindrance: impatience. Most of us have at some point brought fervent supplication to Jesus but did not see the desired results. We must remember that God isn’t at our beck in call like some cosmic bellhop. But it’s encouraging to realize that if we could see the big picture as He can, we’d gladly wait for His way and timing.

       The truth is, we benefit by not receiving all that we request. To understand this concept is a sign of spiritual maturity. When we are thoroughly satisfied with the Lord’s presence (Psalm 16:11), our relationship with Him will flourish, even when we don’t get everything we ask for. When that’s the case, we grasp what prayer is not a long list of wants but regular communication in a relationship.

       Barriers can develop if we persistently cry out to God and nothing changes. But by continuing to pray, we’ll sense God’s presence and will find peace, joy, and awesome glimpses of His glory. This will be completely satisfying, even if He never gives us what was requested.

One of the most painful human emotions is loneliness. Of course, there are times when being alone is unavoidable. But since God has sent His Spirit to live within us, we are never truly on our own. The Holy Spirit—whom Jesus referred to as our “Helper” (John 14:26) is with us every second of every day.

       Let’s think about ways that the Spirit of God helps us in our prayer life. First, He prods us to pray. Have you ever felt a strong sense that you needed to spend time with the Lord perhaps without even knowing why? That is the Spirit convicting you. He has many reasons for doing this: He knows when we need strength because of an imminent difficulty. Or He sometimes encourages us to confess sin so our fellowship with the Father isn’t hindered.

       Second, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us. There are times when we do not know how to pray—for example, when sorrow or helplessness overwhelms us to the point that words are impossible to speak, even to the Lord. Thankfully, when all we can do is cry to Jesus, the Spirit will lead on our behalf.