Come Out | Pastor Matt Erikson

Understanding Faith: When Words Fail Us
Sometimes in our spiritual journey, we find ourselves at a loss for words. We struggle to articulate our thoughts, our prayers seem to fall flat, and we wonder if we're even being heard. This experience is not only common but deeply human.
When Communication Breaks Down
Communication is fundamental to our relationships - both with each other and with God. Yet there are moments when our words become jumbled, unclear, or simply inadequate. These moments of verbal confusion might feel frustrating, but they can actually be opportunities for deeper connection.
In these spaces of broken language, we're reminded that faith isn't primarily about perfect articulation. God doesn't require eloquence to hear us. Sometimes the most authentic prayers are the ones that come out imperfectly.
Beyond Words: The Language of the Heart
The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:26, "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."
This beautiful truth reminds us that when our words fail, the Holy Spirit translates our heart's intentions. Our stammering, our confusion, our inability to express ourselves clearly - none of this hinders God's understanding of what we truly need.
Finding Peace in Imperfection
There's a freedom that comes with accepting our limitations. We don't need to have everything figured out or perfectly expressed. God meets us in our confusion and speaks to us in ways that transcend language.
Sometimes the most profound spiritual experiences happen in silence, in wordless contemplation, or even in the midst of our verbal stumbling. These moments strip away pretense and bring us face-to-face with the reality that faith is about relationship, not performance.
How Can I Connect With God When Words Fail?

• Embrace silence as a form of prayer
• Journal thoughts that are difficult to express verbally
• Use creative expressions like art or music
• Rest in God's presence without the pressure to speak
• Remember that God understands your heart beyond your words

Learning from Biblical Examples
Throughout scripture, we see examples of people who struggled to find words. Moses claimed to be "slow of speech." Jeremiah felt too young and inexperienced to speak for God. Even Jesus, in his most anguished moment on the cross, borrowed words from the Psalms rather than creating his own.
These examples remind us that even the spiritual giants of our faith sometimes struggled with expression. What made them remarkable wasn't their eloquence but their willingness to show up authentically before God.
Community Support in Times of Confusion
When we find ourselves unable to articulate our thoughts or feelings, community becomes especially important. Others can help give voice to what we cannot express, pray on our behalf, and remind us that we're not alone in our struggles.
This is one of the beautiful functions of the church - to be voice for the voiceless, to stand in the gap when others cannot stand for themselves, and to remind each other that God's understanding far exceeds our ability to communicate.
Life Application
This week, I challenge you to embrace the moments when words fail you. Instead of becoming frustrated or giving up on prayer altogether, try sitting in silence before God. Allow yourself to simply be present, without the pressure to formulate perfect prayers or articulate clear thoughts.
Consider these questions:

• When was the last time I felt unable to express myself to God? How did I respond?
• Do I believe God understands me even when my words are jumbled or inadequate?
• How might embracing wordless prayer change my relationship with God?
• In what ways can I support others who struggle to find words for their faith?

Remember that authentic relationship with God isn't built on eloquence but on presence. Sometimes the most powerful prayer is simply showing up, even when the words won't come.