*Since the COVID-19 stay-at-home instruction, I have read some interesting stories of how people are rediscovering things like working jigsaw puzzles; playing family games like Monopoly; getting in touch with distant relatives and old friends; and other human-touch activities. I think it’s a great thing!
In times like these, I’d like to suggest an activity in which we all can participate. How about “Birth Date Scripture?” Often when I’m reading the Bible, a chapter and verse will coincide with a birth date of a relative or friend, and when I think of them, I whisper a prayer for them wherever I am. This activity will cause others to search the scriptures and find a coinciding verse for themselves, or for relatives and friends that they can share. This may prompt them to memorize it and become a spiritual identifier for them – maybe even an epitaph.
For instance, one of my relations was born on January 6th, and one day as I was reading Philippians 1:6, that person came to mind; it reads: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ [His return].”
Now, as I’m writing this, I just turned the page to the second chapter, Philippians 2:16, which is my own birth date, and found: “Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.” I had not read that verse in a while and it reminded me of when I first read it years ago. Being a cross-country runner in high school I really related to it; and the fact that now as a writer, publishing songs, articles and books, I hope it has not been in vain. I hope through it all I have helped and encouraged someone along life’s journey.
So, may I suggest that while we have this time-out, let’s search the scriptures for a birth date chapter and verse that may be a special blessing to ourselves and to others. If you can’t find an appropriate chapter and verse for someone’s birth date, search Psalms and Proverbs for a special word of encouragement – there’s bound to be something there for them (as the whole of it is anyway). What a wonderful gift that would be!
Please take a moment to add your birth date scripture in the comment section below. Thank you!
Larry Buford is a contributing writer. Author of “Things Are Gettin’ Outta Hand” and “Book To The Future.” Email: [email protected]
