A new birth

3 Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
4 Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?"
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. John 3:3-6

Have you ever experienced the birth of a child? If you are a mom then you understand an aspect to this that us men will never experience. Sigh of relief guys. I am a dad of three amazing children. And I had the amazing experience of being an eye witness and a "coach" on all three of our births. I truly was speechless especially after the birth of my first born. I was literally filled with tears of joy when I saw him finally come out after three days of labor. Yes! My wife is amazing!

I can just see the wheels turning here as Nicodemus tries to wrap his head around this being born again thing that Jesus so plainly speaks of. Nicodemus is visualizing what I just described in the last paragraph, a natural birth a second time. Obviously he knows that this cannot be possible and so Jesus helps him a bit by reminding him that it is not a birth of the flesh but more importantly of the Spirit. Jesus was amazed that Nicodemus being a highly trained scholar did not understand that. Then again how many Pharisees and Sadducees understood or received this new birth?

We must not be surprised as Nicodemus was that all who desire to know God must be born again. There is no other way to the Father but through this rebirth of the Spirit. Our only hope for eternity is to embrace the Spirit in a new birth or regeneration where we literally pass through the old and into the new. Just like a baby being born, coming out of the womb and into the world, so all who desire eternal life must be born again.

Falling short

Do you ever feel like a failure? It's easy to sometimes put on a good face to those who don't know you well. It's not as easy to keep that on with those you live with day in and day out. On one hand I find great strides in the grace of God in many areas of my life, and on the other hand I am painfully reminded that I am far from perfect. Thankfully He is the perfect One and if I abide in His love then I find redemption for every area or struggle in my life.

The truth is that I am not a failure, yes I have failings and short comings but in no way does Jesus see me as a failure. We have all been bought and redeemed by the blood of the lamb and that is the truth.

Let God be true and every man a liar. By nature we are hypocrites right? I mean let's not fool ourselves into thinking otherwise. One moment we say one thing, and the next do something contrary to what we just said. We are creatures given over to lies and pride if left on our own. Thanks to God in Christ there is redemption which He has lavished on us that we should be called Children of God. So take courage my friend your redemption is near. Do not wallow in shame or guilt but rise up and take hold of truth. You are more valuable than you know and the blood of Jesus has paid the price for every fault, shortcoming, and sin.

In the stillness

Quiet your soul before the Holy One
Remind Him that you are looking, longing
For His presence at all times.

Be still before the Maker of the universe
Give Him your strength and your weakness, then He will fill you up.

God of wonders release me to be in Awe of You always, to bow down to worship You alone. In your greatness I am great.

I am Your son today. What you have given to me is true identity and belonging. I live for you today.