John 3:5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
- Here Jesus explains how one can receive the full renewal promised in Ezekiel 36:26 and enjoy it forever in God's Kingdom.
- His explanation perplexes Nicodemus and might confuse us as well. How can a grown person be born again?
- Jesus is speaking of a Spiritual rebirth brought about by the Spirit whereby a person is cleansed from his or her past sins (reference to water) and given a new desire to please God (the reference to the Spirit).
- How do I get it? The Spirit gives it to all who asks for it and then continues to remind you of your new identity in Christ.
Prayer for those wanting the Spirit in their lives for the first time:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I've come to realise that my own efforts at bringing eternal joy into my life has not and will not deliver. I am fighting against desires I cannot overcome, and more often than not I end up hurting myself and others I love. Please, would you come into my life and cleanse me from past sins and give me a new desire and a willingness to live for you from here on. Please bring into my life the joy and peace you promise when I follow you - and make in last for an eternity in your Kingdom. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Prayer for those who have been walking with the Spirit until now, but who are longing for a closer walk:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, thank you for the reminder again today of who I am in Christ and where I would be eternally. I have been reborn and I am a child of God - would you work powerfully in me to be who I am in you. Help me to read, understand and live-out your Word in the illuminating power of the Spirit. In Jesus name, Amen.
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