B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 14
October 19, 2013
The Price Of Idle Chatter
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape. Proverbs 19:5
We enjoy seeing people get punished. How often have you heard, "He got what was coming to him"? It makes us feel good when the evil get repaid for their dastardly deeds. And the verse above gives us a reason to swell in pride as we shake our bony finger at those who lie and connive to cheat others.
Before we get too carried away, perhaps we should see what Jesus has to say - But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (Matthew 12:36-37) Notice, Jesus didn't require evil intentions for us to be responsible for our words. Any words, intentional or idle, will be accountable on the day of judgment.
We need to renew our focus on our words and deeds. Even if they are idle, they are a reflection of our heart. Are we reflecting human nature or God's love? We will be held accountable, so let's assure our actions reflect the One who lives within us.
We enjoy seeing people get punished. How often have you heard, "He got what was coming to him"? It makes us feel good when the evil get repaid for their dastardly deeds. And the verse above gives us a reason to swell in pride as we shake our bony finger at those who lie and connive to cheat others.
Before we get too carried away, perhaps we should see what Jesus has to say - But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (Matthew 12:36-37) Notice, Jesus didn't require evil intentions for us to be responsible for our words. Any words, intentional or idle, will be accountable on the day of judgment.
We need to renew our focus on our words and deeds. Even if they are idle, they are a reflection of our heart. Are we reflecting human nature or God's love? We will be held accountable, so let's assure our actions reflect the One who lives within us.
October 18, 2013
Bully Protection
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. Proverbs 18:10
No one likes a bully. They intimidate and strike unsuspecting people with no regards to the individual's situation. As a kid, I remember our school bully well. Clearly he had a "growth spurt" well beyond our years since he outweighed the rest of us guys by almost 2 to 1! While he was huge, he wasn't fast or agile. Our only security on the playground was the round cage of monkey bars - as long as you were inside, swinging from bar to bar, you were assured that he could not catch and pummel you. And the joy of the whistle signaling the end of recess! A quick dash got you in line under the teacher's watchful eye for protection.
Isn't life much like the bully? It has no regard for our situation but lashes out when we least suspect it. Financially (glasses for the kids), emotionally (losing a close friend) or career (guess who didn't get a raise) all reinforce the adage that "Life isn't fair". While we may recognize the truth in the adage, much like the little kid, there are times when we just can't take it any more. We have had enough. Every way we turn, there are new challenges and frustrations that seem insurmountable. We long for the whistle signaling the end of recess!
While there is no whistle for life, there is an escape. As Solomon points out above, when we run to Jesus, he is our protection. We are safe in his arms! Life continues to rage but we are protected by the Almighty. Are you tired of dodging the blows of life? Run to God and he will give you protection from the bully's of life!
No one likes a bully. They intimidate and strike unsuspecting people with no regards to the individual's situation. As a kid, I remember our school bully well. Clearly he had a "growth spurt" well beyond our years since he outweighed the rest of us guys by almost 2 to 1! While he was huge, he wasn't fast or agile. Our only security on the playground was the round cage of monkey bars - as long as you were inside, swinging from bar to bar, you were assured that he could not catch and pummel you. And the joy of the whistle signaling the end of recess! A quick dash got you in line under the teacher's watchful eye for protection.
Isn't life much like the bully? It has no regard for our situation but lashes out when we least suspect it. Financially (glasses for the kids), emotionally (losing a close friend) or career (guess who didn't get a raise) all reinforce the adage that "Life isn't fair". While we may recognize the truth in the adage, much like the little kid, there are times when we just can't take it any more. We have had enough. Every way we turn, there are new challenges and frustrations that seem insurmountable. We long for the whistle signaling the end of recess!
While there is no whistle for life, there is an escape. As Solomon points out above, when we run to Jesus, he is our protection. We are safe in his arms! Life continues to rage but we are protected by the Almighty. Are you tired of dodging the blows of life? Run to God and he will give you protection from the bully's of life!
October 17, 2013
Medicine For The Heart
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22
As a child, I hated taking medicine. Unfortunately, I am no better as an adult. But we all are knowledgeable of the benefits of today's medical breakthroughs and the benefits of properly taking prescribed medications. They can prevent or cure a myriad of aches, pains and diseases. It is almost miraculous the effects of just a few doses.
Such is the case of the merry heart: it can overcome life's challenges in a miraculous way. Solomon compares it to deathly, dried-up bones of a broken spirit. We have all experienced both ends of the spectrum. When we are broken, nothing seems to matter and blessings are not recognized. However, when our hearts are bursting with happiness, all seems well within the world and nothing can seem to keep us down. For me, I choose the latter! However, wishing for a merry heart is not enough - it takes daily effort to achieve such a phenomenal experience.
David gives us excellent advice on how to keep a merry heart in Psalms 16: 8-11: I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
One of the key concepts of David is that he keeps the Lord before him always. Similar to taking medication daily, it is with continual presence before God that we obtain the merry heart and rejoice in hope. It is not from the pleasure drugs of the world but from God's presence, that our spirits are lifted and we are filled with hope. Are you short on hope and long on despair today? Seek the One who has the perfect medicine for the heart!
As a child, I hated taking medicine. Unfortunately, I am no better as an adult. But we all are knowledgeable of the benefits of today's medical breakthroughs and the benefits of properly taking prescribed medications. They can prevent or cure a myriad of aches, pains and diseases. It is almost miraculous the effects of just a few doses.
Such is the case of the merry heart: it can overcome life's challenges in a miraculous way. Solomon compares it to deathly, dried-up bones of a broken spirit. We have all experienced both ends of the spectrum. When we are broken, nothing seems to matter and blessings are not recognized. However, when our hearts are bursting with happiness, all seems well within the world and nothing can seem to keep us down. For me, I choose the latter! However, wishing for a merry heart is not enough - it takes daily effort to achieve such a phenomenal experience.
David gives us excellent advice on how to keep a merry heart in Psalms 16: 8-11: I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
One of the key concepts of David is that he keeps the Lord before him always. Similar to taking medication daily, it is with continual presence before God that we obtain the merry heart and rejoice in hope. It is not from the pleasure drugs of the world but from God's presence, that our spirits are lifted and we are filled with hope. Are you short on hope and long on despair today? Seek the One who has the perfect medicine for the heart!
October 16, 2013
The Stumbling Block To Sin
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16:3
We have often struggled with trying to determine if something is sinful or not. We often try to justify or excuse our actions based upon tolerance, social trends or interpretations. Solomon gives us an excellent tool to determine if something tips the scales in the wrong direction. If we commit our actions to the Lord, it will be readily apparent when we are going against his will!
Can you imagine praying "Lord bless me while I cheat my customers" or "Lord bless me while I humiliate my enemy today"? It is obvious God's blessing and such actions are not compatible. So is the same with all sinful actions. If we submit our every act to God's will, we will no longer have to wonder if we are sinning or not: He will establish our thoughts as promised above.
Is God pleased with your actions today? Have you committed your thoughts and deeds to Him? If so, His pleasure will be a stumbling block to sin.
We have often struggled with trying to determine if something is sinful or not. We often try to justify or excuse our actions based upon tolerance, social trends or interpretations. Solomon gives us an excellent tool to determine if something tips the scales in the wrong direction. If we commit our actions to the Lord, it will be readily apparent when we are going against his will!
Can you imagine praying "Lord bless me while I cheat my customers" or "Lord bless me while I humiliate my enemy today"? It is obvious God's blessing and such actions are not compatible. So is the same with all sinful actions. If we submit our every act to God's will, we will no longer have to wonder if we are sinning or not: He will establish our thoughts as promised above.
Is God pleased with your actions today? Have you committed your thoughts and deeds to Him? If so, His pleasure will be a stumbling block to sin.
October 15, 2013
The Feast Of Love
Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. Proverbs 15:17
When many think of love, they see the commercialized vision of Valentine's Day: roses, candy, candle-lit dinner and sparkling jewelry. Unfortunately, such an image creates another thought in my mind - dollar signs! Love is not measured by the size or cost of gifts. Rather, Paul uses different metrics of measurement in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 - long suffering, kind, not envious, doesn't behave unseemly, not easily provoked, thinks no evil, rejoices in truth, bears all things, hopes all things and endures all things.
As Solomon and Paul point out, wealth or cost of gifts is not a measure of love. Rather, it is a measure of how much we give of ourselves to others. Paul's description challenges me in verse 7 with the fact that it is not a matter of convenience. Rather in ALL things, love bears, hopes and endures. What a perfect image of Christ - he loves us always, no matter what.
Can we say the same of our love for our spouses and children? Do we love them no matter what? Have we demonstrated our love in action vice gifts? So, instead of the fancy dinner tonight, why not serve up a simple meal with heaping servings of true love? Listen, share, care and prayer. Everyone will leave the table satisfied with a smile on their face!
When many think of love, they see the commercialized vision of Valentine's Day: roses, candy, candle-lit dinner and sparkling jewelry. Unfortunately, such an image creates another thought in my mind - dollar signs! Love is not measured by the size or cost of gifts. Rather, Paul uses different metrics of measurement in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 - long suffering, kind, not envious, doesn't behave unseemly, not easily provoked, thinks no evil, rejoices in truth, bears all things, hopes all things and endures all things.
As Solomon and Paul point out, wealth or cost of gifts is not a measure of love. Rather, it is a measure of how much we give of ourselves to others. Paul's description challenges me in verse 7 with the fact that it is not a matter of convenience. Rather in ALL things, love bears, hopes and endures. What a perfect image of Christ - he loves us always, no matter what.
Can we say the same of our love for our spouses and children? Do we love them no matter what? Have we demonstrated our love in action vice gifts? So, instead of the fancy dinner tonight, why not serve up a simple meal with heaping servings of true love? Listen, share, care and prayer. Everyone will leave the table satisfied with a smile on their face!
October 14, 2013
Sin's Payment
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. Proverbs 14:12
We often try to justify our departure from being obedient to God. We have all heard and/or used the excuses of "everyone else is doing it", "I'll go but I won't participate" or "There is nothing wrong with ...". And many times, the risks seem minimal - at the beginning. It is only after getting hooked upon the act do we realize just how far we have strayed from God's will.
Jesus did not classify sin by size or severity (except one). In his teachings, sin was sin. So it is hard for us to justify how minimal an act of sin may be. Much like our relationships with our spouses, an act against them (big or small) breaks down the closeness you share in your relationship. You may try to justify your actions but the chasm is still there. There is only one way to close the gap with your spouse or your Master - forgiveness.
Why do we try to justify our actions? If we stop and recognize who is in control and ask for his assistance, he will assist us in resisting the temptations. "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7). If we stop justifying your actions and start submitting ourselves to Christ, we will not have to deal with the final payment!
We often try to justify our departure from being obedient to God. We have all heard and/or used the excuses of "everyone else is doing it", "I'll go but I won't participate" or "There is nothing wrong with ...". And many times, the risks seem minimal - at the beginning. It is only after getting hooked upon the act do we realize just how far we have strayed from God's will.
Jesus did not classify sin by size or severity (except one). In his teachings, sin was sin. So it is hard for us to justify how minimal an act of sin may be. Much like our relationships with our spouses, an act against them (big or small) breaks down the closeness you share in your relationship. You may try to justify your actions but the chasm is still there. There is only one way to close the gap with your spouse or your Master - forgiveness.
Why do we try to justify our actions? If we stop and recognize who is in control and ask for his assistance, he will assist us in resisting the temptations. "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7). If we stop justifying your actions and start submitting ourselves to Christ, we will not have to deal with the final payment!
October 13, 2013
What Is Your Life Worth?
The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke. Proverbs 13:8
I laughed when I read that our body is worth approximately $4.50 (depending on stock market prices) for the minerals contained within our body. We could almost double our value, $3.50 additional, if we were to sale our skin as leather. Wow! For less than $10, we could buy a person! It is quite staggering to realize that no matter how wealthy an individual may be, his "body value" is pretty much the same as the beggar on the street corner.
So how are our riches measured? Solomon states that the ransom is measured by a man's riches. Is he referring to the bottom line of our balance sheet? Jesus measures our lives not against the balance sheet but how well we serve him.
And who is willing to pay such a ransom? Jesus tells us in Matthew 20:28 - Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. How do you measure the value of God's one and only son? For that is your worth. He gave his life a ransom for each and every one of us.
No matter how rich or poor we may be by earthly measure, our life's worth is measured by the death of Jesus on the cross. Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 6:20 - For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. Don't squander your value - use the life he has given you for his glory.
I laughed when I read that our body is worth approximately $4.50 (depending on stock market prices) for the minerals contained within our body. We could almost double our value, $3.50 additional, if we were to sale our skin as leather. Wow! For less than $10, we could buy a person! It is quite staggering to realize that no matter how wealthy an individual may be, his "body value" is pretty much the same as the beggar on the street corner.
So how are our riches measured? Solomon states that the ransom is measured by a man's riches. Is he referring to the bottom line of our balance sheet? Jesus measures our lives not against the balance sheet but how well we serve him.
And who is willing to pay such a ransom? Jesus tells us in Matthew 20:28 - Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. How do you measure the value of God's one and only son? For that is your worth. He gave his life a ransom for each and every one of us.
No matter how rich or poor we may be by earthly measure, our life's worth is measured by the death of Jesus on the cross. Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 6:20 - For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. Don't squander your value - use the life he has given you for his glory.
October 12, 2013
Foolish Groupies
He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding. Proverbs 12:11
I am often amazed to what extremes people will go in chasing after celebrities. People will squander their possessions and give their lives just to follow after some one that is famous. It is saddening to see people demean themselves to an individual who doesn't know or care about them and any brief encounter is quickly forgotten by the celebrity. I often wonder, why they can't see how foolish they look giving everything to some one that doesn't acknowledge their existence.
Sadly, we do the same thing with other facets in our life without recognizing it either. Our obsessions with wealth, political stature or simply a great golf score will cause us to make foolish choices with our lives. We sometimes choose to give up what is most important in our life simply in hopes of perfecting a goal. And if, or when, that goal is achieved, was it worth it? My father often spoke of a "healthy balance" in our choices. While the object of attraction may be innocent in normal situations, if obsessed, it can become debilitating to the rest of your life. We once had a neighbor who obsessed over his lawn - while normal care of the lawn is acceptable, he foresaked almost everything to simply have the "perfect lawn". Sadly, none of these goals listed above are everlasting - they all pass with time.
Wisdom and knowledge is the key to maintaining a "healthy balance" in our choices. David tells us "What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose." (Psalms 25:12)When we rely on God, he will direct our actions and our choices. Steer clear of following after vain people and flashy goals lest you be labeled foolish as well!
I am often amazed to what extremes people will go in chasing after celebrities. People will squander their possessions and give their lives just to follow after some one that is famous. It is saddening to see people demean themselves to an individual who doesn't know or care about them and any brief encounter is quickly forgotten by the celebrity. I often wonder, why they can't see how foolish they look giving everything to some one that doesn't acknowledge their existence.
Sadly, we do the same thing with other facets in our life without recognizing it either. Our obsessions with wealth, political stature or simply a great golf score will cause us to make foolish choices with our lives. We sometimes choose to give up what is most important in our life simply in hopes of perfecting a goal. And if, or when, that goal is achieved, was it worth it? My father often spoke of a "healthy balance" in our choices. While the object of attraction may be innocent in normal situations, if obsessed, it can become debilitating to the rest of your life. We once had a neighbor who obsessed over his lawn - while normal care of the lawn is acceptable, he foresaked almost everything to simply have the "perfect lawn". Sadly, none of these goals listed above are everlasting - they all pass with time.
Wisdom and knowledge is the key to maintaining a "healthy balance" in our choices. David tells us "What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose." (Psalms 25:12)When we rely on God, he will direct our actions and our choices. Steer clear of following after vain people and flashy goals lest you be labeled foolish as well!
October 11, 2013
A Peaceful Journey
The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. Proverbs 11:5
As a man, I fit the generalization that men hate to ask directions. I had rather drive an additional 25 miles than stop for directions. I know, it is a pride thing but it is just too humbling to admit I am lost! Many of us suffer the same challenge in the direction that our life is going. We are too prideful to acknowledge that we don't know where we are going in life.
As I have grown older and stronger in my walk with Christ, I am learning to follow vice trying to lead my life. When we give up our will to His will, the stress and worries fade. I am growing in the confidence that while I do not know where I will be in ten years, I can be confident that if I remain in His will for my life, it just won't matter. And the peace that comes from such trust makes it much easier on a daily basis to trust in Him. I no longer worry about being lost in my life's plan simply questioning am I following His will for my life?
Are you worried about what the future will bring? James gives us great advice in James 4:13-15. It puts our short life in a heavenly perspective. Have you truly committed your life to Him? Does Jesus have control? If so, it will truly be a peaceful journey.
As a man, I fit the generalization that men hate to ask directions. I had rather drive an additional 25 miles than stop for directions. I know, it is a pride thing but it is just too humbling to admit I am lost! Many of us suffer the same challenge in the direction that our life is going. We are too prideful to acknowledge that we don't know where we are going in life.
As I have grown older and stronger in my walk with Christ, I am learning to follow vice trying to lead my life. When we give up our will to His will, the stress and worries fade. I am growing in the confidence that while I do not know where I will be in ten years, I can be confident that if I remain in His will for my life, it just won't matter. And the peace that comes from such trust makes it much easier on a daily basis to trust in Him. I no longer worry about being lost in my life's plan simply questioning am I following His will for my life?
Are you worried about what the future will bring? James gives us great advice in James 4:13-15. It puts our short life in a heavenly perspective. Have you truly committed your life to Him? Does Jesus have control? If so, it will truly be a peaceful journey.
October 10, 2013
No Strings Attached
The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22
I am often suspicious of "good deals". Normally, something that seems to be to-good-to-be-true is usually not true. Hidden costs and commitments result in frustrations that take away any pleasure obtained with the free goods.
The Lord's blessing are right the opposite - they are unwarranted and truly free. When I try to explain to non-believers, they feel that there is a catch. Why? Because they only have worldly experience to base their judgment on. When I explain that the biggest gift he ever gave us was His son and we only have to believe to receive, they are hesitant.
I am convinced that you must first be a believer in Christ in order to truly appreciate his blessings. David supports the theory in Psalms 34:8 - O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. It is only after trusting in God are you able to fully recognize the many blessing he bestows upon us.
How have you been blessed today? Share your joys with other believers and they too will be blessed!
I am often suspicious of "good deals". Normally, something that seems to be to-good-to-be-true is usually not true. Hidden costs and commitments result in frustrations that take away any pleasure obtained with the free goods.
The Lord's blessing are right the opposite - they are unwarranted and truly free. When I try to explain to non-believers, they feel that there is a catch. Why? Because they only have worldly experience to base their judgment on. When I explain that the biggest gift he ever gave us was His son and we only have to believe to receive, they are hesitant.
I am convinced that you must first be a believer in Christ in order to truly appreciate his blessings. David supports the theory in Psalms 34:8 - O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. It is only after trusting in God are you able to fully recognize the many blessing he bestows upon us.
How have you been blessed today? Share your joys with other believers and they too will be blessed!
