Lenten Devo #34—But Of God

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12-13)

Those who are born again are born from above, from God. It's not our will or effort that saves someone, but the will of God. And that's remarkably good news.

First, it's good because it means that if it is of God, then it's something that only God can take away. And scripture says that he is both the author and perfector of our faith.

Second, though, it means that it's not up to us when it comes to sharing our faith. Instead, it's up to God. I cannot will someone to be better and the strength of my will is not a determining factor in whether or not someone turns away from their sin, either. My words can b e persuasive, my intentions good. But people are born again by the Spirit of God, by the will of God.

That puts prayer at the front of the line, makes prayer the number one priority when it comes to salvation. Prayer is the most important thing you can do if you want a loved not to be saved. Persuasive words matter. Temperament matters. Persistence and integrity matter. But men do not come to life because of these things, but by the will of God.

Who are you praying for today?