The new birthThe nevv birth

then were the gates of heaven opened unto me, and then I both might, and should enter in thereto. O that I were regenerate! O that I were borne again! O that I were a new creature! O that once the image of Christ Jesus were imprinted upon me! All the goods and honours of this world, would not so much advantage me as holiness, if I could attain it. But what do I stand wishing? I have been told that the spirit of God is he, who regenerateth his people. Wherefore I will beg at his hand that mighty and saving work of his spirit, and boldly I may do it: for Christ Jesus hath promised to all that thirst, that if they come,¹ he will make them drink of the waters of life. Yea, he hath told me, that if we men who are evil, can yet give natural good things to our children that ask them; God will much more give his spirit to them that ask it. For his promise is, to pour waters upon the dry ground, and floods upon the thirsty ground, and to pour out of his spirit upon all flesh. ⟨p. 106⟩Well I am assured the word of God is true, and these promises shall be performed to every one that asketh, that he may receive; and to every one that seeketh, that he may find: for the Lord is rich in grace, and gives to all that ask, & hits no man in the teeth. And therefore I will take courage to call upon him, for that most desirable gift of God, even the spirit of regeneration. Thus having enkindled thy desires, bow thou the knees of thy body, and of thy soul too, unto the king of heaven; and pour out thy requests in the most submissive & earnest manner thou canst, saying, either in these words, or to this purpose: O Lord, I am a lost sheep, I am a child of wrath by nature, I am most miserable, most sinful, & I see that in me there dwelleth no good thing, and if I be not renewed I must perish; I beseech thee have mercy upon me, that I perish not. Send thy blessed spirit into mine heart to regenerate me; for so is thy promise plainly made in thy word. Thou knowest that I cannot make my self new: O let thy spirit come upon me, and make me to have a new heart, and a new spirit. Lord Jesus Christ, send thy spirit into me, which may restore me from this death of sin (which now at last thou hast made me to feel) unto the life of holiness. Thou toldest the woman of Samaria,² that if she would ask of thee, thou wouldest give her the water of life.