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In the quiet of the night, Nicodemus slips away from the “some of us [who] have been talking” (John 3:2) to seek some real answers. That’s often what my time with God is about—seeking answers. We all have unanswered questions, most of all about God, eternity, and the things that make sense of this earthly life.
Jesus says, “I tell you the truth: only someone who experiences birth for a second time can hope to see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). If there ever was a chapter to camp out in, this is it. Here is Nicodemus, who by his beliefs, is already born again—a term very familiar to him. In the context of his traditional beliefs, his question to Jesus makes perfect sense: “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?” (John 3:4).
Jesus responds, “I tell you the truth, if someone does not experience water and Spirit birth, there’s no chance he will make it into God’s kingdom” (John 3:5). Isn’t that just like Jesus—to speak to the core, to the truth of what we thought we were asking?
As I paused at this passage, I began to reflect: At the tender age of 29, I remember the moment when years of religion were erased, and I was invited into a relationship with You. I recall the minute my spirit spoke to my mind, and I understood for the first time what Scripture meant about a life surrendered to God, a life committed to following You, a life that had come to an end here on earth to be born again for eternity.
We all have our own stories, each of us drawn by the Spirit in a unique way to the same place of understanding: God loves me. The Father sent Jesus to earth to save me from sin and to restore my relationship with Him. Isn’t your personal story your favorite? Your journey from darkness to light. It bears writing down. Jesus may even want to add to your insight, your point of decision, your before and after. Recall these moments and allow hope to shape the days to come.
It was not Nicodemus’s position, religion, or race that invited him into relationship with Jesus. Our personal response of belief and acceptance of Jesus’ invitation of surrender and lordship is what begins our salvation story. What is your “born again” story?
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About this Plan
As believers, we are called to a lifetime of walking and talking with Him. As I explored the Gospel of John, God began to cultivate conversation and prayer from His heart to mine. My hope is that as you read through this devotional, you too will linger in His presence and allow His Word to become a divine conversation-starter.
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