Counsel #27 — Nurturing The Spiritual Life

Picture: Counsel #27 — Nurturing The Spiritual LifeCWe 37.1

The connection between physical birth and spiritual birth lies in the transformation and new beginnings they represent. Physical birth marks the start of life in the world, a moment of great potential and dependency on a parental figure for growth and survival. Similarly, spiritual birth signifies the beginning of a new life in Christ, often described as being "born again."^{[42]John 3:3} When a person is baptized and declares their desire to surrender to God, they turn from their old ways and commit to living in alignment with God’s will.CWe 37.2

Just as physical birth requires consistent nurturing to grow into maturity, spiritual birth demands intentional care too. Prayer, studying Scripture, fellowship with other believers, and obedience to God’s word are essential for spiritual growth and can never be “set aside.” Both births highlight dependency - physically on caregivers and spiritually on God. If you want to be spiritually born, or re-born for those who’ve strayed from God, declare this desire to God in prayer and take action by getting baptized or re-baptized, joining a Bible study group, worshiping regularly with others and committing to a life of reverence and righteousness. Trust me, it’s the best decision you could ever make!^{[43]https://www.adventist.org/baptism/born-again/}CWe 37.3

“Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.” John 3:6 NIVCWe 37.4

“The change of heart by which we become children of God is in the Bible spoken of as birth.” Ellen White in Steps to Christ, p. 67CWe 37.5

Reflect: Do you desire to be born spiritually?CWe 37.6