How can we nurture our spiritual life as described in John 3:6? Setting the Foundation John 3:6 offers a simple yet profound truth: “Flesh is born of flesh, but spirit is born of the Spirit”. Our new birth is entirely the work of the Holy Spirit, and nurturing that life means cooperating with what He has already begun. Understanding John 3:6 • The contrast: natural birth versus supernatural birth. • The implication: spiritual vitality cannot be generated by human effort alone; it originates and flourishes through the Holy Spirit (cf. Titus 3:5). • The invitation: cooperate with the Spirit who already indwells every believer (Romans 8:9). What It Means to Be Born of the Spirit • A new identity—children of God (John 1:12-13). • A new capacity—spiritual perception and power (1 Corinthians 2:12-16). • A new appetite—desire for righteousness and fellowship with God (Matthew 5:6). Practices that Nurture the Life of the Spirit • Daily Scripture intake – The Spirit uses the Word to shape and sustain us (2 Timothy 3:16-17). – Read, meditate, and memorize to let truth dwell richly in you (Colossians 3:16). • Prayerful dependence – Pray “in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18), relying on His guidance and intercession (Romans 8:26-27). – Combine praise, confession, thanksgiving, and requests to cultivate constant fellowship. • Obedient response – “Do not merely listen to the word…do what it says” (James 1:22). – Every act of obedience strengthens spiritual muscles (John 14:21). • Corporate worship and fellowship – The Spirit knits believers together for mutual edification (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Gather to sing, listen, serve, and encourage, keeping the fire of faith burning. • Spirit-led service – Each believer receives gifts “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). – Use them diligently; serving others channels the Spirit’s life through you (1 Peter 4:10-11). Guarding Against Hindrances • Resist grieving the Spirit through willful sin (Ephesians 4:30). • Reject quenching the Spirit by ignoring His promptings (1 Thessalonians 5:19). • Replace worldly mind-sets with Spirit-set minds for life and peace (Romans 8:5-6). Continual Growth and Assurance • Keep “walking by the Spirit” to bear His fruit (Galatians 5:16-23). • Trust His sealing as the guarantee of your inheritance (Ephesians 1:13-14). • Anticipate the day when what began in new birth reaches full, glorified maturity (Philippians 1:6). |
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