September 25: NEW BIRTH

Believe it:

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.” John 3:3-5 (NIV)

Live it:

We can learn several lessons from today’s text.
1. The new birth is an act of God. Being born again is an act of God. He operates within us as we submit ourselves to His will, power, and love. The greatest struggle for each of us is to reach the point where we admit that we cannot change, and we allow God to control our life.
2. The new birth brings positive results. Today’s text mentions two of those positive results. It says that we can see and can enter. Both are realities you begin to experience the moment you say “yes” to Jesus. The kingdom of God is not a reference only to heaven, but to a change in our lives here on earth. Our values change, as do our attitudes and desires. But nothing good happens until a person is born again. That’s why the new birth is so important.
3. The new birth cannot be faked. A woman cannot be “half pregnant” or “almost pregnant.” She either is or she isn’t. So it is with the new birth—you can’t have it half-way. Either God is in control, or He has no control. I once heard a pastor say, “If God is your copilot, you’re in the wrong seat.” When God does His transforming work, it’s permanent and visible to others, especially those close to you.

Share it:

The best gift you can give your family, friends, and the world happens when you:

·         Turn your life over to God and give Him complete control.

·         Make a special effort today to treat your family well.

My prayer today: for my spiritual life

            -Ask God to help you pray every day, study His Word, and share it with others.

from God’s City, My City