A Birth Certificate From God

Not long ago I lost my billfold and all of its contents. It was simple to call the bank that issued me my credit card and ask them to cancel it. But when I went to get a new driver’s license it took much more than a phone call. I had to produce three different documents – including my birth certificate. Fortunately, I was able to locate them with no difficulty. However our birth certificate is the most important of all when it comes to proving our identity.

But a birth certificate that says we are heaven-born and heaven-bound is certainly the most important. In Psalm 87:6 we read that "The Lord will write in the register of the peoples this one was born in Zion" – referring to the community of believers – which for us is Heaven.

One night after dark a religious leader named Nicodemus went to visit Jesus. As their conversation unfolded Jesus said, "No one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again."

"Nicodemus," Jesus said, "your earthly birth record will not allow you to enter heaven. You need a birth certificate that has been issued by God!"

At birth, we are born into an “earthly family” because we have an “earthly father.” However, when we accept Christ as our Savior, we are born a “second time” – we are “born again” – and God becomes our “Heavenly Father.” Then we become a member of God’s family and enjoy the benefits and blessings of God as our Heavenly Father. Jesus said, “I am the WAY” – the only way there is – to be born again and have the honor of calling God our Heavenly Father.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for inviting us into Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 87:6 The Lord will record, When He registers the peoples: “This one was born there.”