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“We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Romans 8:26b (NIV)

My husband and I don’t travel much these days—his health makes it difficult. But when I got an invitation to attend a get-together with some old friends out of state, he encouraged me to go. That means I’ll be driving five hundred miles alone. Five hundred miles of solitude, just me and the Lord. I’m looking forward to it.

Yesterday, on my way to the grocery store, I found myself thinking about that upcoming trip. As the car hummed along, I began to wonder—what if something went wrong with it during the trip?

Ours is an older model, with more than a few miles under its belt. I wouldn’t have the luxury of calling family or friends if I broke down halfway between here and there. The thought pressed in a little heavier than usual. So I breathed a simple prayer: “Father, if there’s going to be a problem with the car, please let it happen either before the trip… or after.”

Not thirty seconds later, as I approached the busiest intersection in town, a loud grinding noise erupted from the front of the car like a blender chewing on rocks. I quickly flipped on my flashers and assessed my options. If the car could just make it through the light, I could pull into the store parking lot on the other side and be safely out of the flow of traffic.

A kind, patient driver behind me must’ve sensed my trouble, because he stayed right with me, close behind, almost like a guardian angel on four wheels. He didn’t honk or rush. He just followed quietly, giving me the space and cover I needed until I made it across and out of harm’s way. That driver was a gift.

I got out and checked the damage. The front tire had blown, the bottom of it splayed out on the pavement like a welcome mat. My first thought? “Thank You, Lord, for letting it happen now—before the trip!”

Yes, it was a hassle. But a friend showed up within minutes. He removed my doughnut from its storage place under the car and had it on the rim in no time. I was able to drive to the repair shop and get a new tire. If that had happened somewhere on the highway, hours from home, it would’ve been a different story entirely.

So what’s the takeaway? I’m convinced the Holy Spirit nudged me to pray that little prayer. I didn’t know I needed to pray it—but He did. Maybe the tire would’ve blown anyway. But if I hadn’t been in conversation with God at that moment, my whole attitude would’ve been different. I probably would’ve been flustered, anxious, and irritated.

Instead? I saw it as a blessing. I had peace, not stress. And I was reminded that God often answers prayers we don’t even know we need to pray—right on time.

“Father, thank you for the prompting of the Holy Spirit, telling me what I should pray. Help me to be mindful of Your still, small voice more often.”

For His Glory

Cherie Harbridge Williams
TRBC Women’s Life