Editors note: the guest article appearing here does not necessarily reflect the views of Bible Rebel editors or other guest authors and contributors. Bible Rebel seeks to present a wide range of ideas and viewpoints in order to fulfill our mission to provide resources for “Curious Fearless Faith”. This is Part 1 in a new series on prayer called ‘Paul Prayed Without Ceasing’ by Steve Sann.
Why pray “in the spirit” at every opportunity? Because, speaking in tongues (or “S.I.T.”, as it has often been abbreviated casually) is the optimal tool to use when praying for extended periods of time.
How is that? With the words originating from the spirit, the mind is freed up for other concerns; the decision-making process is bypassed, leaving the mind relatively free for everyday matters. When we SIT, hours can be invested in prayer, even while carrying on our other daily routines. As a result, this enables us to pray continually for people and situations all over the world. And this watchful, constant prayer is critical to assist God in carrying out His purposes.
Or, as I Thessalonians 5 phrases it, we are to…pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
– I Thessalonians 5:17,18. The phrase “in or with the spirit”, in the context of speaking to God, is used interchangeably for tongues, defining it as tongues. For example, I Corinthians 14:14, 15 reads:
“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.” Correspondingly, throughout the New Testament, any form of communication from us directed to God described as being in, with, or by the spirit is referring specifically to tongues, as can be viewed in the following references:
Praying: Jude 20, Ephesians 6:18, I Corinthians 14:14 Speaking: I Corinthians 12:3
Singing: I Corinthians 14:15
Praising (“blessing”): I Corinthians 14:16 Worshipping: Philippians 3:3, John 4:23, 24 and Crying: Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:6
As Christians, it would seem we are forever in search of “God’s will” for our lives, aren’t we? Well, finally, here it is, God’s will is clearly stated! And it could not be spelled out more plainly: “…pray without ceasing…for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Not as glamorous as being called a great apostle to the nations, one might assess, but it is God’s will for each one of us, nonetheless— right?
Steve Sann
Steve Sann is a writer and researcher passionate about biblical studies, theology, and historical analysis. His work explores prophecy, spiritual manifestations, and other scriptural mysteries with clarity, logic, and an unwavering dedication to accuracy. His research challenges conventional perspectives while remaining grounded in the time-tested principle that Scripture interprets itself.