VITAL STATISTICS

Here are three important numbers: 9-3-1929, 6-12-1941 and 1-1-1955. The first is the date of my natural birth. The second is the date I was “born again of the water and the spirit” (Jn 3:5). The third is the date of my promises in marriage. These vital statistics mark the most significant dates to remember in life.

The numbers for my natural birth are often referred to in my daily life. The second numbers are vital to my spiritual life, marking the date of entrance into the family of God, His called out body, the church. In this family I am promised “all spiritual blessings” (Eph 1:3).  The third numbers mark the date of promising to live with my chosen mate in marriage “until death” (Ruth 1:17), being warned that what God joins together man must not separate (Mt 19:5-6). My wife and I were blessed with five children. When they were taught, each confessed faith in Jesus and was “born again.” These dates are vital as each one began to grow and “walk in newness of life” (Rom 6:4).

I have congratulated hundreds who have been born again. These most vital statistics are written by God in His eternal “book of life” (Phil 4:3; Rev 20 & 21), also recorded in my personal book of remembrance. This is God’s plan of giving increase in His family from generation to generation (Mk 16:15-16). Some of my spiritual children now have their own book of names being added to their spiritual vital statistics.