There is so much information available to us. We can learn the meaning of a word by simply asking our phones. We can learn new skills through watching a video online. We have the freedom to learn anything we want, right at our fingertips. However, understanding and practicing are two of the most important parts of this learning process; this was clear in a conversation that Jesus had with a man named Nicodemus:
“Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 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?” John 3: 3-4
Of course, there is no way for a person to be born again. Jesus was speaking about a person whose soul was born again, who decides to live with God.
Having information is great but it isn’t enough. Nicodemus received a word from Jesus himself but at that moment didn’t understand it because he did not yet have a relationship with God – but he desired to have one. That is why Jesus continued to make this word even clearer:
“Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” John 3: 5-6
Our “flesh” is simply our desires, our will, our worldly habits and thoughts – the things that separate us from God. The “spirit” is the spirit of God living in us. How can we achieve this? By doing what Nicodemus did, investing in a relationship with Jesus. This is done through the meditation of the Word of God, prayer and letting go of the things that separate you from God. When God sees the effort you make to draw close to Him, He in turn comes close to you and fills you with His Spirit.
That is the best restart a person can desire. Perhaps your faith has grown cold, or maybe you fell back and have been longing to restart with God. Now that you know how it’s done, don’t waste any more time. God wants you back more than you can imagine.
May the God of the Bible bless you!
Bishop Bira Joshua
