Living With Directionਨਮੂਨਾ

Born of the Spirit

If yesterday's Scripture story scared you, you're not alone. We all like things we can control. But a life following the Holy Spirit doesn't always (or ever) fit neatly into our plans. When you surrender to the Spirit, he is in charge.

When Jesus talked to Nicodemus, he described life in the Spirit like the wind. You can feel it. You can see its effects. But you can't control it. You don't always know where it's coming from or where it's going.

That's the kind of life God invites us into when we're born of the Spirit—a life that holds plans loosely and stays radically open to the Spirit's leading.

Following Jesus isn't about making the perfect five-year plan. It's about staying ready for whatever the Spirit might lead you into.

Here's a simple practice to help you stay open:

• Each morning, pray: "Holy Spirit, help me hear your voice today. I surrender my plans to you."
• As you go through your day, pay attention. A small nudge. A quiet conviction. A moment that feels different. That might be the Spirit leading you.