B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 17
September 19, 2013
True Friendship
Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour. Proverbs 19:4
Who says you can't buy friends? Solomon points out that wealth draws friends like moths to a candle. But are they truly friends? While they may appear to be friendly, what is their motivation? Your wealth or well-being? Such thoughts plant a seed of doubt about people's true intentions.
My wife and I have had our share of financial challenges. But looking in hindsight, we never felt closer to each other than when we teamed together to fight our way out of such challenges. And our friends then? The best we ever had!
It makes me stop and challenge my own personal motivation for friendship with others. Is it for my own personal benefit? Is it the "connections" they have in lofty positions? Or is it simply a matter of showing God's love to others? When Jesus came to the earth, he didn't pursue the rulers of the country or the church. Rather, he focused upon the dregs of society: the poor, the sick, low-income workers and tax collectors. What was his motivation? For His benefit or for their benefit? As Christians, we should be friendly to others, regardless of their station in life. Didn't He do the same to us?
Who says you can't buy friends? Solomon points out that wealth draws friends like moths to a candle. But are they truly friends? While they may appear to be friendly, what is their motivation? Your wealth or well-being? Such thoughts plant a seed of doubt about people's true intentions.
My wife and I have had our share of financial challenges. But looking in hindsight, we never felt closer to each other than when we teamed together to fight our way out of such challenges. And our friends then? The best we ever had!
It makes me stop and challenge my own personal motivation for friendship with others. Is it for my own personal benefit? Is it the "connections" they have in lofty positions? Or is it simply a matter of showing God's love to others? When Jesus came to the earth, he didn't pursue the rulers of the country or the church. Rather, he focused upon the dregs of society: the poor, the sick, low-income workers and tax collectors. What was his motivation? For His benefit or for their benefit? As Christians, we should be friendly to others, regardless of their station in life. Didn't He do the same to us?
September 18, 2013
Tearing Down Walls
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19
When we let our emotions run unchecked, stand by for disaster! We say and do things that result in us doing irreparable harm to those we love. And no matter how hard we try, we can not erase our actions and words.
Solomon compares it to a strong city and bars on a castle - quite an obstacle to overcome! While we can soften the impact by honest and sincere apologies, the damage is done. We can continue to show our regret, but the memory remains. The best defense is a strong offense - against ever performing such an act in the first place. We need to keep our emotions in check from the onset.
And the best resource for holding our emotions in check? A close walk with God. He will lead and guide us in what we should say and do. But the first part is the hard part - a close walk with God. This only comes by keeping close through prayer and meditation on his word so that we can hear him when he speaks to us.
A close walk with our Father will ensure the bars and walls are never built in the first place. Then our life is not so difficult tearing down the walls we have built by our actions.
When we let our emotions run unchecked, stand by for disaster! We say and do things that result in us doing irreparable harm to those we love. And no matter how hard we try, we can not erase our actions and words.
Solomon compares it to a strong city and bars on a castle - quite an obstacle to overcome! While we can soften the impact by honest and sincere apologies, the damage is done. We can continue to show our regret, but the memory remains. The best defense is a strong offense - against ever performing such an act in the first place. We need to keep our emotions in check from the onset.
And the best resource for holding our emotions in check? A close walk with God. He will lead and guide us in what we should say and do. But the first part is the hard part - a close walk with God. This only comes by keeping close through prayer and meditation on his word so that we can hear him when he speaks to us.
A close walk with our Father will ensure the bars and walls are never built in the first place. Then our life is not so difficult tearing down the walls we have built by our actions.
September 17, 2013
Blessed Silence
He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Proverbs 17:27
I often suffer from the disease of "diarrhea of the mouth" - continuous babbling when I should be quiet. And nothing good ever comes from it. Solomon tells us above that it is a direct reflection on lack of knowledge. And he is right, again. Likewise, James gives us excellent advise in James 1:19 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
When I stop talking and listen, I learn much, much more. If it is someone that I have just met, I gain a deeper understanding of the individual. If it is a loved one, I will actually understand their feelings and emotions. When I don't keep my mouth shut, I often go off on a half-cocked decision based upon minimal knowledge of the situation. And you can guess the results!
Isn't the same true with our relationship with Christ? I catch myself babbling about my needs or wants, what I think He needs to do for others and what I need to improve in my life. If I would just stop talking and listen, I would hear what He wants me to do. Why don't we pause in our babbling today and listen closely to God's words - the results will astound us! Only when we are listening, can we truly say "speak, for thy servant heareth" (1 Sam 3:10).
I often suffer from the disease of "diarrhea of the mouth" - continuous babbling when I should be quiet. And nothing good ever comes from it. Solomon tells us above that it is a direct reflection on lack of knowledge. And he is right, again. Likewise, James gives us excellent advise in James 1:19 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
When I stop talking and listen, I learn much, much more. If it is someone that I have just met, I gain a deeper understanding of the individual. If it is a loved one, I will actually understand their feelings and emotions. When I don't keep my mouth shut, I often go off on a half-cocked decision based upon minimal knowledge of the situation. And you can guess the results!
Isn't the same true with our relationship with Christ? I catch myself babbling about my needs or wants, what I think He needs to do for others and what I need to improve in my life. If I would just stop talking and listen, I would hear what He wants me to do. Why don't we pause in our babbling today and listen closely to God's words - the results will astound us! Only when we are listening, can we truly say "speak, for thy servant heareth" (1 Sam 3:10).
September 16, 2013
Enemy Suppression
When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16:7
In the military, much study and analysis is performed on how to suppress your enemy and minimize his impact upon your intended actions. Much is the same in our personal life. We spend numerous hours worrying about our enemies and how to minimize their harm. We devise counter maneuvers and build defenses to overcome the hostile actions of those we distrust.
Solomon points out that we are approaching the situation backwards. Instead of worrying about the enemy, we need to worry about pleasing God. If our relationship is right with God, he will take care of the rest.
How many times have you prepared for your enemy only to find out they did not react in the manner you anticipated? Just think how much more beneficial that time would have been spent pleasing God? Jesus recognized that we worry unnecessarily about all manner of issues, including enemies. But in Matthew 6:33 he states -"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Did he encourage us to worry about our enemies (or food or clothes)? No he encourages us to seek Him.
Seek and trust Him today. He will take care of the rest.
In the military, much study and analysis is performed on how to suppress your enemy and minimize his impact upon your intended actions. Much is the same in our personal life. We spend numerous hours worrying about our enemies and how to minimize their harm. We devise counter maneuvers and build defenses to overcome the hostile actions of those we distrust.
Solomon points out that we are approaching the situation backwards. Instead of worrying about the enemy, we need to worry about pleasing God. If our relationship is right with God, he will take care of the rest.
How many times have you prepared for your enemy only to find out they did not react in the manner you anticipated? Just think how much more beneficial that time would have been spent pleasing God? Jesus recognized that we worry unnecessarily about all manner of issues, including enemies. But in Matthew 6:33 he states -"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Did he encourage us to worry about our enemies (or food or clothes)? No he encourages us to seek Him.
Seek and trust Him today. He will take care of the rest.
September 15, 2013
Time With A Friend
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight. Proverbs 15:8
We often judge our devotion to Christ by how much we give financially. However, Solomon points out quite a contrast above. The Lord prefers our time and focus than a half-hearted financial donation. He doesn't want our surplus cash, he wants our life.
I often compare this to a marriage. If a husband never spends quality time with his wife but merely shows up with gifts, talks with her once a week - is it really a marriage? Is it even a relationship? Ask your wife - she knows the answer! And yet, many feel that a stroke of a check and few hours on Sunday checks the block with our Lord. Doesn't he deserve more?
We are quick to call out when we are in need or desperately want something. But we are also quick to forget Him when things are going well. And this is how we treat someone who gave His son's life so that we may have eternal life?
God doesn't want our surplus wealth (that he bestowed upon us initially). He doesn't want token effort at the church. He desires a relationship. And a relationship is built upon sharing. And the best way to share with our Lord? Through frequent and effective prayer and studying of His word.
Won't you be a friend to our Lord today and give him what he desires most? Time spent together in prayer. He will be delighted!
We often judge our devotion to Christ by how much we give financially. However, Solomon points out quite a contrast above. The Lord prefers our time and focus than a half-hearted financial donation. He doesn't want our surplus cash, he wants our life.
I often compare this to a marriage. If a husband never spends quality time with his wife but merely shows up with gifts, talks with her once a week - is it really a marriage? Is it even a relationship? Ask your wife - she knows the answer! And yet, many feel that a stroke of a check and few hours on Sunday checks the block with our Lord. Doesn't he deserve more?
We are quick to call out when we are in need or desperately want something. But we are also quick to forget Him when things are going well. And this is how we treat someone who gave His son's life so that we may have eternal life?
God doesn't want our surplus wealth (that he bestowed upon us initially). He doesn't want token effort at the church. He desires a relationship. And a relationship is built upon sharing. And the best way to share with our Lord? Through frequent and effective prayer and studying of His word.
Won't you be a friend to our Lord today and give him what he desires most? Time spent together in prayer. He will be delighted!
September 14, 2013
Secrets Of The Heart
The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy. Proverbs 14:10
Not even our closest friend or loved one knows what is in our heart. We may think we know how someone feels based on their behavior and response. But we don't truly know and some are great actors! And I admit that I am also guilty of putting a smile on my face and kindness in my voice even when my heart is heavy.
Why do we try to hide our feelings? Because we are macho? Because we don't believe others are genuine in their concern? That they just won't understand? Because we are embarrassed to admit our faults? These and many more reasons cause us to pause in revealing how we truly feel. And it only causes us to walk around with pent up feelings and emotions that are just seething to be released.
There is One that knows our heart and he cares for us. David experienced the challenges of life more dramatically than I and spoke these words in Psalms 55:22 - Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. And he promised us in Psalms 147:3 - He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. What encouraging words for us that are suffering from a heavy heart.
When you feel that no one understands or cares, He cares for you. When we don't understand why things are happening - He understands and cares for us. When we are so broken inside, that words can't describe our pain - He cares for us. Remember the Beatitudes? (Matthew 5:3-12) Jesus described our hearts well: those poor in spirit, the meek, those that mourn, and those persecuted. All of these sound like some one with a heavy heart. And what did Jesus promise? Restoration of the heart. If he made our hearts, he can surely fix them.
I will leave you today with words from the expert: David. I encourage you to read Psalms 25. David clearly relates to all of us suffering from a heavy heart. Let us put our trust in the one that can heal our broken heart!
Not even our closest friend or loved one knows what is in our heart. We may think we know how someone feels based on their behavior and response. But we don't truly know and some are great actors! And I admit that I am also guilty of putting a smile on my face and kindness in my voice even when my heart is heavy.
Why do we try to hide our feelings? Because we are macho? Because we don't believe others are genuine in their concern? That they just won't understand? Because we are embarrassed to admit our faults? These and many more reasons cause us to pause in revealing how we truly feel. And it only causes us to walk around with pent up feelings and emotions that are just seething to be released.
There is One that knows our heart and he cares for us. David experienced the challenges of life more dramatically than I and spoke these words in Psalms 55:22 - Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. And he promised us in Psalms 147:3 - He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. What encouraging words for us that are suffering from a heavy heart.
When you feel that no one understands or cares, He cares for you. When we don't understand why things are happening - He understands and cares for us. When we are so broken inside, that words can't describe our pain - He cares for us. Remember the Beatitudes? (Matthew 5:3-12) Jesus described our hearts well: those poor in spirit, the meek, those that mourn, and those persecuted. All of these sound like some one with a heavy heart. And what did Jesus promise? Restoration of the heart. If he made our hearts, he can surely fix them.
I will leave you today with words from the expert: David. I encourage you to read Psalms 25. David clearly relates to all of us suffering from a heavy heart. Let us put our trust in the one that can heal our broken heart!
September 13, 2013
Complaining Gets Nothing
The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat. Proverbs 13:4
Solomon provides a sharp contrast between the sluggard and the diligent. Do we not see the same disparity among people today? There are many who continually complain about their station in life yet they do nothing to help themselves. Yet, there are others who diligently work two, and sometimes three, jobs just to make ends meet without a peep. While the diligent may not be rich, they are fed and clothed.
Shouldn't we be the same in our Christian life? Continual complaints of not being blessed does not improve our spiritual well being. But the ones who struggle through life's challenges are blessed by God. They continue to seek ways to serve the Lord, regardless of their financial abilities and natural talents. We should do the same!
Join me in renewing my commitment to quit complaining and to start looking for ways that God wants me to serve Him today.
Solomon provides a sharp contrast between the sluggard and the diligent. Do we not see the same disparity among people today? There are many who continually complain about their station in life yet they do nothing to help themselves. Yet, there are others who diligently work two, and sometimes three, jobs just to make ends meet without a peep. While the diligent may not be rich, they are fed and clothed.
Shouldn't we be the same in our Christian life? Continual complaints of not being blessed does not improve our spiritual well being. But the ones who struggle through life's challenges are blessed by God. They continue to seek ways to serve the Lord, regardless of their financial abilities and natural talents. We should do the same!
Join me in renewing my commitment to quit complaining and to start looking for ways that God wants me to serve Him today.
September 12, 2013
The Power Of A Kind Word
Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad. Proverbs 12:25
Everyone appreciates positive recognition. Likewise, people longed to be appreciated for their efforts. So why is it so difficult to speak words of appreciation to someone? In reality, it is not. Except, we feel too busy to take the time to speak.
Many people are living in doubt if there efforts are in vain. While they are striving to do well, it is never confirmed. A simple "thank you" or "great job" would erase the doubt and fill the heart with confidence. And it doesn't take much effort to achieve. But it does take awareness of our surroundings - we are too often consumed in our own little world to recognize others around us.
I challenge you to break free from your own distractions and recognize those around you today. Hopefully, you will recognize those who need to see the love of Christ through a simple word of encouragement.
Everyone appreciates positive recognition. Likewise, people longed to be appreciated for their efforts. So why is it so difficult to speak words of appreciation to someone? In reality, it is not. Except, we feel too busy to take the time to speak.
Many people are living in doubt if there efforts are in vain. While they are striving to do well, it is never confirmed. A simple "thank you" or "great job" would erase the doubt and fill the heart with confidence. And it doesn't take much effort to achieve. But it does take awareness of our surroundings - we are too often consumed in our own little world to recognize others around us.
I challenge you to break free from your own distractions and recognize those around you today. Hopefully, you will recognize those who need to see the love of Christ through a simple word of encouragement.
September 11, 2013
Double Judgment
Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth; much more the wicked and the sinner. Proverbs 11:31
We have all seen situations happen to people and hear some one state that is was pay back for something the individual had done. Well, here is the verse to back it up! Solomon clealy states that we will be recompensed for our actions on earth. Other translations (NIV, NKJ) are a little clearer on the fact that it does occur on earth.
And he warns that it is more so for the wicked and the sinner. And Paul warns in Hebrews 9:27, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment". We know then that as sinners we are punished on earth and then judged to eternal punishment on Judgement Day. It drives home the impact of pain and suffering to be endured by loved ones that have not accepted Christ. With such an ominous future, we should strive with a renewed vigor to lead our loved ones to Christ!
As Christians, we may suffer on earth through trials and tribulations but we are assured that God will compensate us in other ways on earth and in heaven. What a motivating and comforting thought! Doesn't it inspire you to abandon your will to follow Him today?
We have all seen situations happen to people and hear some one state that is was pay back for something the individual had done. Well, here is the verse to back it up! Solomon clealy states that we will be recompensed for our actions on earth. Other translations (NIV, NKJ) are a little clearer on the fact that it does occur on earth.
And he warns that it is more so for the wicked and the sinner. And Paul warns in Hebrews 9:27, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment". We know then that as sinners we are punished on earth and then judged to eternal punishment on Judgement Day. It drives home the impact of pain and suffering to be endured by loved ones that have not accepted Christ. With such an ominous future, we should strive with a renewed vigor to lead our loved ones to Christ!
As Christians, we may suffer on earth through trials and tribulations but we are assured that God will compensate us in other ways on earth and in heaven. What a motivating and comforting thought! Doesn't it inspire you to abandon your will to follow Him today?
September 10, 2013
Hunger Interrupted
The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: But he casteth away the substance of the wicked. Proverbs 10:3
Have you been hungry lately? I am talking about a hunger that is so strong that you can think of nothing else. Your body aches and your faculties are sluggish; The only relief is to get some food into your body. And when you eat, what a feeling! Initially, you gobble down the food but then you slow and savor each morsel. You have a renewed appreciation for the tastes that you are experiencing. None of these emotions and feelings compare to those who are starving to death. A dismal situation at best which often results in the body rejecting the food provided to it.
The same situation applies to our soul. As Christians, we often experience times of famine from Christ's blessings. In those times of hunger, we long for his blessings and gobble them up when they reappear. And the peace that comes from savoring the knowledge that God truly loves you! He will not allow us to perish but will allow us to hunger for his blessings. And what a sweet blessing when they appear! Sadly, the opposite occurs with the unbeliever - he rejects or ignores the blessing provided.
Are you going through a desolate phase in your relationship with Christ? Cry out to Him and plead with Him to restore your relationship. The restoration is such a cleansing experience that will strengthen your relationship and allow you to savor every morsel of his love!
Have you been hungry lately? I am talking about a hunger that is so strong that you can think of nothing else. Your body aches and your faculties are sluggish; The only relief is to get some food into your body. And when you eat, what a feeling! Initially, you gobble down the food but then you slow and savor each morsel. You have a renewed appreciation for the tastes that you are experiencing. None of these emotions and feelings compare to those who are starving to death. A dismal situation at best which often results in the body rejecting the food provided to it.
The same situation applies to our soul. As Christians, we often experience times of famine from Christ's blessings. In those times of hunger, we long for his blessings and gobble them up when they reappear. And the peace that comes from savoring the knowledge that God truly loves you! He will not allow us to perish but will allow us to hunger for his blessings. And what a sweet blessing when they appear! Sadly, the opposite occurs with the unbeliever - he rejects or ignores the blessing provided.
Are you going through a desolate phase in your relationship with Christ? Cry out to Him and plead with Him to restore your relationship. The restoration is such a cleansing experience that will strengthen your relationship and allow you to savor every morsel of his love!
