Notice the true mark of prayer: "In the Holy Spirit." Real prayer comes from God alone. Only prayers from God reach Him. We should return to God the desires He places within us. These desires touch His heart and bring blessings. But desires of the flesh have no power.

Praying in the Holy Spirit means praying with fervency. Cold prayers ask God not to hear them. Without fervency, prayer is nonexistent. Lukewarm prayers are as effective as lukewarm fire; they must be intense.

It also means praying persistently. True seekers grow stronger as they continue, becoming more fervent if God delays. The longer the door is closed, the harder they knock. When the answer is delayed, their resolve grows to not give up until they receive the blessing. Tearful, persistent, and unyielding prayer is beautiful to God.

Praying in the Spirit is humble. The Spirit never fills us with pride but humbles us. We can only shout praises if our prayers rise from deep humility. It's prayer filled with love.

Prayer should be full of love for others and for Christ. It must also be full of faith. We succeed in prayer as our faith strengthens. The Holy Spirit gives and strengthens our faith, helping us pray with belief in God's promises. May these graces, as precious and fragrant as the finest spices, fill our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Mighty Comforter, help our weaknesses in prayer.