Words of Encouragement

When you look at this picture you "see" the water, but you cannot see the wind. The evidence of the wind is the kite that is blowing over the water. Lord help us to "see" the evidence of your Spirit at all times.

Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit." "How can this be?" Nicodemus asked. "You are Israel's teacher," said Jesus, "and do you not understand these things? - John 3:6-10



Nicodemus. By God's Spirit. Nicodemus could not understand what it was that Jesus was speaking when we left yesterdays scripture. In today's lesson, Jesus continues to teach Nicodemus.



Here, Jesus teaches of the two types of birth. The first, the natural birth many understand when a mother gives birth to a child. That is flesh bringing forth flesh. The second, the spiritual birth, many do not understand that is why Nicodemus was confused.



The spiritual birth is done through the spirit bringing forth a new "child" in what was once only a fleshly one. Jesus goes on to say that the wind blows where it pleases. You know it is there because you can hear it but you cannot see it. You have evidence that it exist but you cannot see it.



It is the same with the Spirit of God. He is there even if you cannot see him. The evidence of his presence is the change he makes in the lives of people. The evidence of his presence is seen by the fruit of the Spirit. (But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, - Galatians 5:22).



This is how one is born again, by the Spirit of God. He calls all to whomever the Lord sends him to call for and he changes whomever the Lord instructs. It is not done because of good works, right attitudes or good living, it is all by the power of God through his Spirit.



Nicodemus still could not grasp this understand and says so. Jesus' response to him is, you are a teacher in Israel and you do not understand. We have to understand Nicodemus represents many today. There are those that have great acclaim yet do not understand it is not in their status, or their own power that they are able to understand the kingdom of God.



Yes, God can use all those things to his glory, but they are not the source of our understanding about God. It is plan and simply it is by His Spirit and His Spirit alone.



I pray for us today and rejoice that Jesus took time to explain this mystery to Nicodemus so that you and I could also understand. God thank you for teaching us and giving us the opportunity to know the truth. May we gain the wisdom of God as we release ourselves into your capable hand.



NOTE: Look at yesterdays blog just below to see my tribute to my daughter who will be soon departing for school.