Many Kinds of Birth (John 3:3-7)

When I was a third year medical student, I did my 2 month rotation through obstetrics and gynecology. I assisted on dozens of deliveries. Amongst the many memories I have of these experiences, I always marveled at how varied the birth experiences were for mothers. Some would yell, scream, and curse. Others would cry with pain and joy. Still others barely uttered a sound, perhaps a slight grunt or moan with heavy breathing. Every childbirth was different but the outcome was the same...a new birth and great joy!

Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, 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?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, 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. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘“You must be born again.”
John 3:3-7 (ESV)

Like the different reactions of the birthing mothers, with every new believer, every spiritual rebirth by the Holy Spirit is different. One brother in the Lord told me that it was a gradual awareness and understanding. Another shared how he came to God sobbing upon his hands and knees. For me, it was a long sleepless evening of tossing and turning in bed, attempting to resist the Holy Spirit’s calling to me. After several hours, I sat up in my bed and said, “Ok God, you win! I give my life to you. Jesus Christ, I accept you as my Lord and Savior!”

Was there a flash of light? Did I hear a choir of angels singing? Did my senses become supernaturally heightened? No. But like millions of other believers before me and since, the outcome was the same; I knew I had been spiritually reborn and was now a child of God.

Every spiritual birth is different but the outcome is the same. God has saved us to bring glory to His name and Kingdom by accepting His Son, Jesus Christ, as our Lord and Savior!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.