A New Birth

Scripture – John 3:5-8: Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless that person is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This is one of the most famous (or is it “infamous?”) phrases in the Bible – “You must be born again.” Sometimes it’s used in a derogatory way to speak of Christians. I’ve actually heard people say, “I’m not a ‘born-again’ Christian.” On the other extreme, I’ve heard people proudly refer to themselves as “born again” Christians, as though there were other kinds which were not quite as good as them. The fact is “If anyone is in Christ, he or she is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) We have a new life - one so different it is no stretch to say we’ve been born anew. As Jesus describes it, it’s a Spiritual birth. One of the things we have in Him is the Spirit’s presence and guidance in our lives. And the simple fact is the Spirit remains a mystery to us. Like the wind, we cannot see it. We can only see its affects and perhaps feel its movement.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will let myself “feel” the Spirit today. I will trust Christ’s leading in that. I will let the wind of God blow me in whatever direction He chooses.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I have many things planned for today. I have more to do than I can get done on my own. Please move me along at your pace in your direction. Thank you for the new life you’ve given me. Help me live in a way that brings you honor.