B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 12
November 8, 2013
Immeasurable Treasure
For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Proverbs 8:11
We often are required to complete a financial statement that determines our net worth. But there are some things beyond measure. Solomon declares that wisdom is more valuable than "all things that may be desired". Quite a bold statement from someone who was quite wealthy. When you read of the riches he amassed for the temple, it puts into perspective the value he placed upon wisdom.
How much have you invested in seeking wisdom? Time, effort, prayer and concentration are all sacrifices required to achieve wisdom. Have you invested wisely? It is never too late to start! Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If we prioritize our efforts, the rewards will be immeasurable!
While we may not be as wealthy as Solomon, we can be as richly blessed by simply investing our time and effort seeking after the proper goals that last beyond a lifetime!
We often are required to complete a financial statement that determines our net worth. But there are some things beyond measure. Solomon declares that wisdom is more valuable than "all things that may be desired". Quite a bold statement from someone who was quite wealthy. When you read of the riches he amassed for the temple, it puts into perspective the value he placed upon wisdom.
How much have you invested in seeking wisdom? Time, effort, prayer and concentration are all sacrifices required to achieve wisdom. Have you invested wisely? It is never too late to start! Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If we prioritize our efforts, the rewards will be immeasurable!
While we may not be as wealthy as Solomon, we can be as richly blessed by simply investing our time and effort seeking after the proper goals that last beyond a lifetime!
November 7, 2013
Poetic Justification
He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed. Proverbs 7:20
Solomon spends the majority of this chapter discussing the fall of a foolish young man to an evil woman. In the verse above, she justifies why it is acceptable for him to spend the night with a married woman. While it appears to be obvious that such a justification is foolish, I am reminded of the famous lines of Robert Burns famous poem To a Mouse - "The best laid schemes of mice and men". Doesn't our plans often go astray?
We build great plans based upon our assumptions and justifications only to have them collapse like a house of cards. Is it simply due to random acts of nature? Or are we missing something during the planning process? Often when we plan, our conscious will twinge at some of our actions or intents. But we quickly justify them based upon the fact that "everyone else is doing it". Then we wonder why we fail.
Jesus explains the problem with our plans inLuke 6:47-49. When we come to Christ, hear his words and do them, we will succeed. If we choose not to follow his guidance, our plans are swept away. Is it not poetic justice that when we plan as men (or mice) we fail, but when we follow God's plan, we succeed? God has a plan for each of us from the cradle to the grave. If we will but listen, we will succeed!
Solomon spends the majority of this chapter discussing the fall of a foolish young man to an evil woman. In the verse above, she justifies why it is acceptable for him to spend the night with a married woman. While it appears to be obvious that such a justification is foolish, I am reminded of the famous lines of Robert Burns famous poem To a Mouse - "The best laid schemes of mice and men". Doesn't our plans often go astray?
We build great plans based upon our assumptions and justifications only to have them collapse like a house of cards. Is it simply due to random acts of nature? Or are we missing something during the planning process? Often when we plan, our conscious will twinge at some of our actions or intents. But we quickly justify them based upon the fact that "everyone else is doing it". Then we wonder why we fail.
Jesus explains the problem with our plans inLuke 6:47-49. When we come to Christ, hear his words and do them, we will succeed. If we choose not to follow his guidance, our plans are swept away. Is it not poetic justice that when we plan as men (or mice) we fail, but when we follow God's plan, we succeed? God has a plan for each of us from the cradle to the grave. If we will but listen, we will succeed!
November 6, 2013
Bug Splatter
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Proverbs 6:6
No one hates bugs in the house more than my wife. With the arrival of a single bug, the warning is sounded and all-out-war commences! Physical, chemical and sound wave weaponry is deployed with a vengeance rarely seen in her normally calm demeanor. I used to think she was frightened by the critters but I have slowly realized it is not fear but a protection of her domain. They may rule the outdoors but nothing comes into the home without her permission!
But even with such theatrics in our home, we need to closely listen to Solomon's advice in gaining wisdom from observing the ant. While we can often quote the fact that they gather food in the time of harvest, we tend to skip over the verse in between the two: "Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler," (Proverbs 6:7). Now that I think about it, I have never observed coronations, elections or debates among the ants before they were mercilessly splattered. We never hear of political boundaries between ants or democratic resolutions to resolve ant brutality. Why? For they all strive to ensure the benefit of the whole colony. They are not concerned with their position within the colony - they simply go about performing their role without the expectation for promotion or recognition.
Wouldn't it be great if we worked together in the same manner at church? We are working toward a common goal. Right? And what benefit is recognition on earth? Shouldn't the goal be recognition by our Master? Could we function without a guide, overseer or ruler? Nope, I am afraid the old "P" word would get in our way. People take pride in their sacrifices (and are happy to boast about them). People take pride in their honors and recognition. People take pride in their positions held within the church. Yes, pride keeps the church from functioning smoothly without a guide.
Perhaps we should squash our pride instead of the bugs? Then we could also be used as an example of selfless sacrifice to a common goal of glorifying our Savior!
No one hates bugs in the house more than my wife. With the arrival of a single bug, the warning is sounded and all-out-war commences! Physical, chemical and sound wave weaponry is deployed with a vengeance rarely seen in her normally calm demeanor. I used to think she was frightened by the critters but I have slowly realized it is not fear but a protection of her domain. They may rule the outdoors but nothing comes into the home without her permission!
But even with such theatrics in our home, we need to closely listen to Solomon's advice in gaining wisdom from observing the ant. While we can often quote the fact that they gather food in the time of harvest, we tend to skip over the verse in between the two: "Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler," (Proverbs 6:7). Now that I think about it, I have never observed coronations, elections or debates among the ants before they were mercilessly splattered. We never hear of political boundaries between ants or democratic resolutions to resolve ant brutality. Why? For they all strive to ensure the benefit of the whole colony. They are not concerned with their position within the colony - they simply go about performing their role without the expectation for promotion or recognition.
Wouldn't it be great if we worked together in the same manner at church? We are working toward a common goal. Right? And what benefit is recognition on earth? Shouldn't the goal be recognition by our Master? Could we function without a guide, overseer or ruler? Nope, I am afraid the old "P" word would get in our way. People take pride in their sacrifices (and are happy to boast about them). People take pride in their honors and recognition. People take pride in their positions held within the church. Yes, pride keeps the church from functioning smoothly without a guide.
Perhaps we should squash our pride instead of the bugs? Then we could also be used as an example of selfless sacrifice to a common goal of glorifying our Savior!
November 5, 2013
Escape From Despair
Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: Proverbs 5:9
Solomon paints a dismal picture of the price of a sinful life. At some point, reality strikes and exposes our choices for what they truly are. With a sickening sense of hopelessness, we realize that we have squandered our honor and efforts for the benefit of others who could care less for our well-being. In utter despair, we feel that no one cares and we deserve the punishment and degradation bestowed upon our miserable life.
But a faint glimmer of hope beckons with the realization that Jesus is waiting for us to call upon him. David describes it best in Psalms 71:4-5 - Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. He is able to deliver us from any despair we encounter, if we trust in him.
Have you encountered such a time of despair? I encourage you to read Psalms 34. As God's children, He will hear and answer our pleas. I will leave the closing verses for your encouragement:
The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. (Psalms 34:17-22)
Solomon paints a dismal picture of the price of a sinful life. At some point, reality strikes and exposes our choices for what they truly are. With a sickening sense of hopelessness, we realize that we have squandered our honor and efforts for the benefit of others who could care less for our well-being. In utter despair, we feel that no one cares and we deserve the punishment and degradation bestowed upon our miserable life.
But a faint glimmer of hope beckons with the realization that Jesus is waiting for us to call upon him. David describes it best in Psalms 71:4-5 - Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. He is able to deliver us from any despair we encounter, if we trust in him.
Have you encountered such a time of despair? I encourage you to read Psalms 34. As God's children, He will hear and answer our pleas. I will leave the closing verses for your encouragement:
The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. (Psalms 34:17-22)
November 4, 2013
Dangerous Detour
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. Proverbs 4:14-15
Solomon is very explicit in his warning to steer clear of evil men and their wicked ways! Not one or two but four descriptions are used to describe how to stay away from evil. Essentially, he is saying don't even come close to it! But why? If you are Godly person, can't you withstand the temptation?
I think Jesus aptly described our situation in Matthew 26:41 - Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. And he recognized our weakness to temptation by including it in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13). Truly Jesus recognized our weakness to resist temptation and encouraged us to seek protection. Hence, Solomon's stern warning not to allow ourselves to get into the position of temptation.
And James describes the results of such evil temptations in James 1:14-15 - But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
An old saying states, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." And Solomon was trying to prevent our fall into sin. So heed his warning and take the detour around the disaster of temptation!
Solomon is very explicit in his warning to steer clear of evil men and their wicked ways! Not one or two but four descriptions are used to describe how to stay away from evil. Essentially, he is saying don't even come close to it! But why? If you are Godly person, can't you withstand the temptation?
I think Jesus aptly described our situation in Matthew 26:41 - Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. And he recognized our weakness to temptation by including it in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13). Truly Jesus recognized our weakness to resist temptation and encouraged us to seek protection. Hence, Solomon's stern warning not to allow ourselves to get into the position of temptation.
And James describes the results of such evil temptations in James 1:14-15 - But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
An old saying states, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." And Solomon was trying to prevent our fall into sin. So heed his warning and take the detour around the disaster of temptation!
November 3, 2013
Unappreciated Kindness
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. Proverbs 3:27
We are happy when we can do good for those we love. There is no greater sense of satisfaction than when we bask in the appreciation from someone that we have just done a good deed. Their sincere appreciation causes our chest to swell with pride and our steps a little lighter. But what about those who are not appreciative?
It is difficult to share kindness or good deeds with those who are not appreciative - almost as if it is expected of you. No appreciation is shown and they continue in their same old lifestyle without a moment's hesitation to appreciate your deeds. When the next opportunity arises, if is even more difficult for you to share your efforts with them. For you know there will be no appreciation nor a positive response.
But God has set the example for us to follow. When the Israelites repeatedly turned away, he continued to show his love and mercy. Even when they wished to return to captivity, God did not forsake them. Hasn't he done the same for us? Can any of us claim to be without sin? Even after He gave His Son to die for us?
When we hesitate to share goodness with others, we need to compare the value of our gift against that of God. Does it come any where close to giving up you one and only son? I didn't think so. And it causes us to recognize the lack of love for others. We need to recognize where our blessings originate (not from us) and be happy to be used by our Savior to share goodness with others. Regardless of the appreciation.
We are happy when we can do good for those we love. There is no greater sense of satisfaction than when we bask in the appreciation from someone that we have just done a good deed. Their sincere appreciation causes our chest to swell with pride and our steps a little lighter. But what about those who are not appreciative?
It is difficult to share kindness or good deeds with those who are not appreciative - almost as if it is expected of you. No appreciation is shown and they continue in their same old lifestyle without a moment's hesitation to appreciate your deeds. When the next opportunity arises, if is even more difficult for you to share your efforts with them. For you know there will be no appreciation nor a positive response.
But God has set the example for us to follow. When the Israelites repeatedly turned away, he continued to show his love and mercy. Even when they wished to return to captivity, God did not forsake them. Hasn't he done the same for us? Can any of us claim to be without sin? Even after He gave His Son to die for us?
When we hesitate to share goodness with others, we need to compare the value of our gift against that of God. Does it come any where close to giving up you one and only son? I didn't think so. And it causes us to recognize the lack of love for others. We need to recognize where our blessings originate (not from us) and be happy to be used by our Savior to share goodness with others. Regardless of the appreciation.
November 2, 2013
The Right(eous) Path
That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous. Proverbs 2:20
We have often heard that we are known by the company that we keep. Solomon alludes to the same above in reference to our walk through life. But the second part is a little more challenging - we know many good men who are not Christians. So how do we differentiate the paths of "good" versus "righteous" paths?
I will defer to the "man after God's own heart" to help us better understand for he refers to our path more in Psalms than any other book of the Bible! In Psalms 25:4-5, David states: "Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day." and in Psalms 16:11- Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
It is clear that the righteous path is shown to us by the Lord but I have never seen flashing neon signs highlighting the righteous path. Rather, it sometimes seems obscure and hidden by all of the distractions of the world. But David (again) gives us the guidance in Psalms 119:105 - Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. What a simple but challenging method to find the often elusive path - committing God's word to our heart! I often feel that God was smart enough to recognize our laziness in studying His word, so he made it a prerequisite to receiving his guidance and blessings!
Talking about blessings, we are all familiar with the 23rd Psalms. David describes a life blessed by God. He also states: "He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake." (Psalms 23:3). Clearly David knew the value of choosing the righteous path - shouldn't we? If you feel that you have stumbled in life, go back to the road map (His Word) and let him light your way to the path of righteousness! You, too, will be able to claim the peace and comfort described in Psalms 23.
We have often heard that we are known by the company that we keep. Solomon alludes to the same above in reference to our walk through life. But the second part is a little more challenging - we know many good men who are not Christians. So how do we differentiate the paths of "good" versus "righteous" paths?
I will defer to the "man after God's own heart" to help us better understand for he refers to our path more in Psalms than any other book of the Bible! In Psalms 25:4-5, David states: "Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day." and in Psalms 16:11- Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
It is clear that the righteous path is shown to us by the Lord but I have never seen flashing neon signs highlighting the righteous path. Rather, it sometimes seems obscure and hidden by all of the distractions of the world. But David (again) gives us the guidance in Psalms 119:105 - Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. What a simple but challenging method to find the often elusive path - committing God's word to our heart! I often feel that God was smart enough to recognize our laziness in studying His word, so he made it a prerequisite to receiving his guidance and blessings!
Talking about blessings, we are all familiar with the 23rd Psalms. David describes a life blessed by God. He also states: "He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake." (Psalms 23:3). Clearly David knew the value of choosing the righteous path - shouldn't we? If you feel that you have stumbled in life, go back to the road map (His Word) and let him light your way to the path of righteousness! You, too, will be able to claim the peace and comfort described in Psalms 23.
November 1, 2013
No Fear
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. Proverbs 1:33
Halloween is a time for horror movies but no one enjoys when life imitates art (if horror movies count as art). While the flicks give us a sudden burst of adrenaline, we are comforted to know that it is only a movie and will end within a couple of hours. Except for the nightmares!
Does life give you nightmares? Does the same horrible scene, real or imagined, continue to play over and over in your mind? Whether it is from a spouse, child, work or peers, when something horrible occurs, it seems impossible to block it from your memory. Years can pass and the memory will pop up from no where and frighten you, again.
But there is a solution to our fears - God. In Psalms 34:7, David assures us "The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them." What a concept! Why should we fear when we have angelic protection? I am confident that nothing we face can overcome their abilities!
So why do we still have nightmares? Simply because we choose to handle the issue on our own instead of committing it to Christ. When we turn the issue over to Him, we have peace and confidence that He is capable of taking care of anything besieging us. I encourage you to talk with your Savior today and let his angelic forces protect you vice fighting your own battles. You will sleep soundly with no nightmares and no fear!
Halloween is a time for horror movies but no one enjoys when life imitates art (if horror movies count as art). While the flicks give us a sudden burst of adrenaline, we are comforted to know that it is only a movie and will end within a couple of hours. Except for the nightmares!
Does life give you nightmares? Does the same horrible scene, real or imagined, continue to play over and over in your mind? Whether it is from a spouse, child, work or peers, when something horrible occurs, it seems impossible to block it from your memory. Years can pass and the memory will pop up from no where and frighten you, again.
But there is a solution to our fears - God. In Psalms 34:7, David assures us "The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them." What a concept! Why should we fear when we have angelic protection? I am confident that nothing we face can overcome their abilities!
So why do we still have nightmares? Simply because we choose to handle the issue on our own instead of committing it to Christ. When we turn the issue over to Him, we have peace and confidence that He is capable of taking care of anything besieging us. I encourage you to talk with your Savior today and let his angelic forces protect you vice fighting your own battles. You will sleep soundly with no nightmares and no fear!
October 31, 2013
Marriage's Missing Link
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
Proverbs 31:11
Proverbs 31 is known for describing the perfect wife. I believe this verse describes the perfect marriage. The first part of the verse describes that the husband's heart safely trusts in his wife. Trust is a mutual relationship between two people. Much like love, trust is a two-way street. In order for either love or trust to exist, there must be unimpeded flow between the two that is not hampered by doubt, envy or anger. The adjective of "safely" implies there has been no history to cause doubt about the validity of the trust. As a result, the wife can equally trust the husband.
Trust requires open and honest communication that is void of deception, secrets or hidden agendas. The two freely share their opinions and emotions without fear of retribution. Each understands and respects the other - both their features and their faults. And neither hampers their love and trust of the other.
The relationship between husband and wife is compared to that between Jesus and the church (Ephesians 5:25). What a better example of a perfect relationship. In order for us to be close to Christ and safely trust Him, we must have the relationship of open and honest communication.
Do you have such a relationship with your spouse? If so, give them an extra hug tonight and thank them for such a wonderful blessing. If not, take the first steps in building such a relationship by following the example of Jesus. I don't know of a better example of a perfect relationship!
Proverbs 31:11
Proverbs 31 is known for describing the perfect wife. I believe this verse describes the perfect marriage. The first part of the verse describes that the husband's heart safely trusts in his wife. Trust is a mutual relationship between two people. Much like love, trust is a two-way street. In order for either love or trust to exist, there must be unimpeded flow between the two that is not hampered by doubt, envy or anger. The adjective of "safely" implies there has been no history to cause doubt about the validity of the trust. As a result, the wife can equally trust the husband.
Trust requires open and honest communication that is void of deception, secrets or hidden agendas. The two freely share their opinions and emotions without fear of retribution. Each understands and respects the other - both their features and their faults. And neither hampers their love and trust of the other.
The relationship between husband and wife is compared to that between Jesus and the church (Ephesians 5:25). What a better example of a perfect relationship. In order for us to be close to Christ and safely trust Him, we must have the relationship of open and honest communication.
Do you have such a relationship with your spouse? If so, give them an extra hug tonight and thank them for such a wonderful blessing. If not, take the first steps in building such a relationship by following the example of Jesus. I don't know of a better example of a perfect relationship!
October 30, 2013
Do You Know Him?
Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell? Proverbs 30:4
When I look at the question posed by Agur in the verse above, I have often smirked at how easy the answer would be for a third grade Sunday School class. But let's look a little closer at the question. While we readily know the answer, when was the last time you recognized the attributes of your Savior? Who else has the power to descend and ascend to heaven? Can you tame the wind? He used it as a fierce force to get the attention of Elijah and his disciples but then calmed the winds and seas for both Jonah and his disciples. Who else controls the reaches of the water? And then allows his servants to part it for His glory?
We often fail to view God's power on such a macroscopic scale but rather confine his abilities to our simple problems. We are so focused on our own petty issues that we fail to recognize his abilities to impact not only our lives but our community, country and the world. He made it all and is in control of it all.
So pause for a moment and reflect on His awesome power! Did you notice the turning of the leaves and the beautiful music of the birds? Take a peek at the night sky and recognize that He created each and every star. It kind of takes your breath away to recognize that we serve such a magnificent master!
Oh, and those problems in your life? They look a lot smaller now when you recognize who is on your side!
When I look at the question posed by Agur in the verse above, I have often smirked at how easy the answer would be for a third grade Sunday School class. But let's look a little closer at the question. While we readily know the answer, when was the last time you recognized the attributes of your Savior? Who else has the power to descend and ascend to heaven? Can you tame the wind? He used it as a fierce force to get the attention of Elijah and his disciples but then calmed the winds and seas for both Jonah and his disciples. Who else controls the reaches of the water? And then allows his servants to part it for His glory?
We often fail to view God's power on such a macroscopic scale but rather confine his abilities to our simple problems. We are so focused on our own petty issues that we fail to recognize his abilities to impact not only our lives but our community, country and the world. He made it all and is in control of it all.
So pause for a moment and reflect on His awesome power! Did you notice the turning of the leaves and the beautiful music of the birds? Take a peek at the night sky and recognize that He created each and every star. It kind of takes your breath away to recognize that we serve such a magnificent master!
Oh, and those problems in your life? They look a lot smaller now when you recognize who is on your side!
