What does it mean to be born again? It’s a phrase that we often come across. Today, let’s take a few minutes to examine what it means for us. In John 3, Jesus has a conversation with the Pharisee Nicodemus about being born again. Jesus says, ‘No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again’ (John 3:3 NIV). Like many of us, Nicodemus wants more explanation: ‘How can someone be born when they are old?...Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!’ (v.4 NIV). So Jesus replies: ‘No one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.’ (v.5-7 NIV). When we accept God into our hearts and put our trust in Him, the Holy Spirit will bring about a new spiritual life for us. It’s compared to a new birth because, as we invite God into our lives and grow a relationship with Him, He changes our hearts and makes us new (take a look at 2 Corinthians 5:17). It doesn’t matter what sins and wrongs we’ve done in the past – God gives us a fresh start at life with Him at the centre. We just need to take that step to seek Him and welcome Him into our lives. We might be worried that He won’t show up when we seek Him, but Jesus said: ‘The Father is the One who sent me. No one can come to me unless the Father draws him to me’ (John 6:44 NCV). It’s God’s Spirit that prompts us to search, so we can be sure that when we reach out to Him, He’ll reach out to us.

What Now?

If you feel ready, take some time to commit (or recommit) your life to God. Ask Him to be part of your life, invite Him in to your heart, and ask Him to give you a fresh awareness and confidence that you’re a new creation through His love.