B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 25
June 2, 2013
Conditional Promises
My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
Proverbs 2:1
Many "good deals" have fine print. We often think we are getting something that seems too good to be true and we eventually find out we were right - it was too good to be true! Many offers we consider each day have terms and conditions. We must carefully scrutinize each sentence and evaluate the potential impact of each statement on current and future conditions. Sometimes, even with the best of intentions and careful scrutiny, we get bested by the offeror.
Solomon starts out the second chapter of Proverbs with such a conditional promise. However, we are the beneficiary of a gracious and kind God. While he asks for our hearts and souls to be committed to him, the returns are beyond comparison. And when you add in the long-term benefits, there is no doubt we have gotten the better end of the deal!
Why not stop and thank your Savior for giving you such a "good deal"? Not only in this life but the life to come, we are truly blessed by a wonderful Savior and Friend!
Proverbs 2:1
Many "good deals" have fine print. We often think we are getting something that seems too good to be true and we eventually find out we were right - it was too good to be true! Many offers we consider each day have terms and conditions. We must carefully scrutinize each sentence and evaluate the potential impact of each statement on current and future conditions. Sometimes, even with the best of intentions and careful scrutiny, we get bested by the offeror.
Solomon starts out the second chapter of Proverbs with such a conditional promise. However, we are the beneficiary of a gracious and kind God. While he asks for our hearts and souls to be committed to him, the returns are beyond comparison. And when you add in the long-term benefits, there is no doubt we have gotten the better end of the deal!
Why not stop and thank your Savior for giving you such a "good deal"? Not only in this life but the life to come, we are truly blessed by a wonderful Savior and Friend!
June 1, 2013
A Horrific Nightmare
When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:
Proverbs 1:27-28
Alfred Hitchcock was well known for creating horror films that shook people for days. However, I believe Solomon penned the words above to shock us for the rest of our lives. It is the ultimate horrific nightmare.
Look closely at his careful description of the situation - desolating fear, whirlwinds of destruction, distress and anguish fall upon us. And then the ultimate terror - unanswered calls to our Savior. Have you ever lost a little child? Panic instantly wells up within you and is almost impossible to control. Such fear pales in comparison to the recognition that your refusal (verses 25 and 29) to accept Him has resulted in your pleading being ignored. If the Savior chooses not to save you, then who can? Is there any hope?
Sadly, all hope is gone. The situation has degraded to a disaster spinning out of control. Has your life experienced such a disaster? When nothing seems able to stop the mounting casualties of your choices? Then read the last verse of the chapter - unlike Hitchcock, Solomon closes the chapter with the promise beyond comparison: But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. (Proverbs 1:33). The promise of safety - the hope to which we cling during our nightmares. Those who have been bought with a price know the true meaning of "peace within the storm". Remember the famous Psalm 23? David also knew the peace of trusting in God. Will you not trust Him as well? He has promised to rid us of all nightmares!
Proverbs 1:27-28
Alfred Hitchcock was well known for creating horror films that shook people for days. However, I believe Solomon penned the words above to shock us for the rest of our lives. It is the ultimate horrific nightmare.
Look closely at his careful description of the situation - desolating fear, whirlwinds of destruction, distress and anguish fall upon us. And then the ultimate terror - unanswered calls to our Savior. Have you ever lost a little child? Panic instantly wells up within you and is almost impossible to control. Such fear pales in comparison to the recognition that your refusal (verses 25 and 29) to accept Him has resulted in your pleading being ignored. If the Savior chooses not to save you, then who can? Is there any hope?
Sadly, all hope is gone. The situation has degraded to a disaster spinning out of control. Has your life experienced such a disaster? When nothing seems able to stop the mounting casualties of your choices? Then read the last verse of the chapter - unlike Hitchcock, Solomon closes the chapter with the promise beyond comparison: But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. (Proverbs 1:33). The promise of safety - the hope to which we cling during our nightmares. Those who have been bought with a price know the true meaning of "peace within the storm". Remember the famous Psalm 23? David also knew the peace of trusting in God. Will you not trust Him as well? He has promised to rid us of all nightmares!
May 31, 2013
Marital Bliss
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Proverbs 31:12
As we near the summer, wedding invitations are arriving almost as frequent as sale papers in the mail. As we pick out the wedding presents, get dressed and attend the wedding, we all strive to say something profound to the new bride and groom that will benefit their journey together. Luckily, Solomon has provided such in the verse above. It is the crux of marital bliss.
Look closely at the words chosen to describe the relationship. Evil is not allowed to enter the relationship - ever. Before the husbands jump on his description of the wife, we need to recognize that relationships are built upon reciprocal actions. If the wife only does good, so must the husband. From the last bite of ice cream in the bucket to taking out the garbage, the marriage must be based upon doing good unto the other member.
If we pasted this verse on our bathroom mirror and strove to achieve it each and every day, just imagine what would happen to the divorce rate! Leaving someone that only does good is not comprehendible. Likewise, relationships would strengthen vice deteriorate. Paul challenged the husbands to "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it" Ephesians 5:25 Isn't it easier to give your life for the one who has always done good unto you?
What have you done good to your spouse today? Is it significant enough to be recognized by your spouse? Remember each act is another step towards marital bliss!
Proverbs 31:12
As we near the summer, wedding invitations are arriving almost as frequent as sale papers in the mail. As we pick out the wedding presents, get dressed and attend the wedding, we all strive to say something profound to the new bride and groom that will benefit their journey together. Luckily, Solomon has provided such in the verse above. It is the crux of marital bliss.
Look closely at the words chosen to describe the relationship. Evil is not allowed to enter the relationship - ever. Before the husbands jump on his description of the wife, we need to recognize that relationships are built upon reciprocal actions. If the wife only does good, so must the husband. From the last bite of ice cream in the bucket to taking out the garbage, the marriage must be based upon doing good unto the other member.
If we pasted this verse on our bathroom mirror and strove to achieve it each and every day, just imagine what would happen to the divorce rate! Leaving someone that only does good is not comprehendible. Likewise, relationships would strengthen vice deteriorate. Paul challenged the husbands to "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it" Ephesians 5:25 Isn't it easier to give your life for the one who has always done good unto you?
What have you done good to your spouse today? Is it significant enough to be recognized by your spouse? Remember each act is another step towards marital bliss!
May 30, 2013
Divine Creation
The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;
Proverbs 30:27
We are often impressed by the inventions of the human race. Technological advances come so rapid that cell phones and computers are antiquated before they get worn in well. Medical advances save millions of lives and industrial applications continually do more with less. It is enough to make our chest (and head) swell with pride!
Before we get so full of ourselves we need to pause and remember Who created mankind: The same God who created the ability for animals to function perfectly without advances by humans or animals. Locusts don’t text, phone or tweet their location or direction of movement. Yet, they have continued to move in bands for thousands of years. They don’t have leaders, patriarchs or elections yet they continue to inhabit the land. Our Creator knew well before he created insects or humans what we needed to survive.
If God is that knowledgeable, our personal needs are pale in comparison. Yet, He knows before we ask and is ready to supply our every need. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:30-33: Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Allow the One who created you provide your every need.
Proverbs 30:27
We are often impressed by the inventions of the human race. Technological advances come so rapid that cell phones and computers are antiquated before they get worn in well. Medical advances save millions of lives and industrial applications continually do more with less. It is enough to make our chest (and head) swell with pride!
Before we get so full of ourselves we need to pause and remember Who created mankind: The same God who created the ability for animals to function perfectly without advances by humans or animals. Locusts don’t text, phone or tweet their location or direction of movement. Yet, they have continued to move in bands for thousands of years. They don’t have leaders, patriarchs or elections yet they continue to inhabit the land. Our Creator knew well before he created insects or humans what we needed to survive.
If God is that knowledgeable, our personal needs are pale in comparison. Yet, He knows before we ask and is ready to supply our every need. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:30-33: Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Allow the One who created you provide your every need.
May 29, 2013
Wisdom in Silence
A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
Proverbs 29:11
We have all said something and later regretted it. Our words tend to come back and haunt us! Solomon repeatedly warns us to keep silent. In the above verse, the fool clearly speaks his mind, as I sometimes do. Afterwards, there is no doubt about your opinion whether it be right or wrong. And in my case, it is often wrong.
Solomon exhorts us to be wise and keep our emotions and feelings to ourselves. When we do, we no longer have to apologize or regret our foolishly spoken words! While I may not be wise in all situations, I would be wise to be silent!
David has given us the perfect prayer in Psalms 19:14: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
Proverbs 29:11
We have all said something and later regretted it. Our words tend to come back and haunt us! Solomon repeatedly warns us to keep silent. In the above verse, the fool clearly speaks his mind, as I sometimes do. Afterwards, there is no doubt about your opinion whether it be right or wrong. And in my case, it is often wrong.
Solomon exhorts us to be wise and keep our emotions and feelings to ourselves. When we do, we no longer have to apologize or regret our foolishly spoken words! While I may not be wise in all situations, I would be wise to be silent!
David has given us the perfect prayer in Psalms 19:14: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
May 28, 2013
What Is Your Motivation?
A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.
Proverbs 28:20
Our actions are based upon our motivation. Many are so consumed with getting rich or popular that they will abandon all morals and do anything to achieve success. Unfortunately, once they have reached their goal, they still feel empty and unfulfilled.
Solomon assures us that a faithful man will be blessed. While he may not be blessed with wealth and fame, he will have peace and contentment. If we are really honest with ourselves, these are the goals we seek. Once achieved, they do not leave you wishing for more or something else.
What is the motivation for your actions today? Are you trying to achieve success or to be faithful to God’s command? The results of your day are contingent upon your motivation.
Proverbs 28:20
Our actions are based upon our motivation. Many are so consumed with getting rich or popular that they will abandon all morals and do anything to achieve success. Unfortunately, once they have reached their goal, they still feel empty and unfulfilled.
Solomon assures us that a faithful man will be blessed. While he may not be blessed with wealth and fame, he will have peace and contentment. If we are really honest with ourselves, these are the goals we seek. Once achieved, they do not leave you wishing for more or something else.
What is the motivation for your actions today? Are you trying to achieve success or to be faithful to God’s command? The results of your day are contingent upon your motivation.
May 27, 2013
Polished by Praise
As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.
Proverbs 27:21
A tarnished silver tea set is not very impressive. However, one that is polished and shined has a sparkling attraction to those who pass by. The same is true for us, when we are praised by others, our countenance shines. You can’t help but be radiant when you know you are appreciated and someone recognizes your efforts.
If it feels so good, why don’t we make it happen more often? It costs nothing but taking the time to recognize someone’s efforts. And the results are gratifying for both involved. It is a simple implementation of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. Let’s resolve to recognize at least one person’s effort today and each day!
Proverbs 27:21
A tarnished silver tea set is not very impressive. However, one that is polished and shined has a sparkling attraction to those who pass by. The same is true for us, when we are praised by others, our countenance shines. You can’t help but be radiant when you know you are appreciated and someone recognizes your efforts.
If it feels so good, why don’t we make it happen more often? It costs nothing but taking the time to recognize someone’s efforts. And the results are gratifying for both involved. It is a simple implementation of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. Let’s resolve to recognize at least one person’s effort today and each day!
May 26, 2013
Intrinsic Value
Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
Proverbs 26:23
Have you ever bought cheap jewelry? Is was so embarrassing as an elementary-school beau when my true love showed me her tarnished arm in front of everyone on the school play ground. She loudly proclaimed how cheap I was and how my lack of sincerity caused her arm to turn green! And my face probably turned green with the realization that the jewelry that I thought was so shiny was so cheap.
It is often the same situation with our relationships with others. It is disturbing to find out what we thought was so flashy was just a covering over true filth below. Are we guilty of the same behavior? Do we loudly proclaim our love of God on Sunday only to verbally dash others on Monday? Don't be linked with those of little worth. Improve yourself from the inside out. And the only way to do so is to seek the Master that can make our heart all new. Then we can shine from the inside out.
Proverbs 26:23
Have you ever bought cheap jewelry? Is was so embarrassing as an elementary-school beau when my true love showed me her tarnished arm in front of everyone on the school play ground. She loudly proclaimed how cheap I was and how my lack of sincerity caused her arm to turn green! And my face probably turned green with the realization that the jewelry that I thought was so shiny was so cheap.
It is often the same situation with our relationships with others. It is disturbing to find out what we thought was so flashy was just a covering over true filth below. Are we guilty of the same behavior? Do we loudly proclaim our love of God on Sunday only to verbally dash others on Monday? Don't be linked with those of little worth. Improve yourself from the inside out. And the only way to do so is to seek the Master that can make our heart all new. Then we can shine from the inside out.
May 25, 2013
Trusting Others
Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
Proverbs 25:19
I have never had a broken tooth but I have had sprained ankles, a broken right foot and a broken left leg. Each were painful, to varying degrees, but they were all cumbersome. Have you tried hobbling on crutches? If so, be careful of wet tile floors! (A different story for another day). You can not get anywhere in a hurry. Even with an electric scooter (tried it once in the grocery store with a broken leg - rather starve than try it again), maneuvering can be difficult. For one who is always on the go, it was so frustrating to be hampered from the most basic functions in life!
The same can be said of our frustrations when our trust in an individual is betrayed. We are frustrated at the outcome, angered at our judgment in trusting the individual and farther behind than we had hoped. Just as important, our doubt of others grows each time we are betrayed. It becomes harder to trust others with tasks or private, personal matters. Perhaps, we should just give up on trusting anyone?
Let's flip the scenario, how many times have you let down God? For me, it is more than I want to count! And yet, He still loves us and forgives us. Should we do the same to others? In fact, Jesus told us to forgive "seven times seventy" - has anyone truly let you down that many times? So let's bandage our broken leg and our emotions, and hobble forward. Our forgiveness of other's failures will allow the love of God to show through us to others.
Proverbs 25:19
I have never had a broken tooth but I have had sprained ankles, a broken right foot and a broken left leg. Each were painful, to varying degrees, but they were all cumbersome. Have you tried hobbling on crutches? If so, be careful of wet tile floors! (A different story for another day). You can not get anywhere in a hurry. Even with an electric scooter (tried it once in the grocery store with a broken leg - rather starve than try it again), maneuvering can be difficult. For one who is always on the go, it was so frustrating to be hampered from the most basic functions in life!
The same can be said of our frustrations when our trust in an individual is betrayed. We are frustrated at the outcome, angered at our judgment in trusting the individual and farther behind than we had hoped. Just as important, our doubt of others grows each time we are betrayed. It becomes harder to trust others with tasks or private, personal matters. Perhaps, we should just give up on trusting anyone?
Let's flip the scenario, how many times have you let down God? For me, it is more than I want to count! And yet, He still loves us and forgives us. Should we do the same to others? In fact, Jesus told us to forgive "seven times seventy" - has anyone truly let you down that many times? So let's bandage our broken leg and our emotions, and hobble forward. Our forgiveness of other's failures will allow the love of God to show through us to others.
May 24, 2013
Stay Away!
Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.
Proverbs 24:1
When we were children, our parents warned us of evil people who sought to do harm to little children. As we grew, our parents warned us against "hanging with the wrong crowd". As we matured, our parents warned against doing business with "shady characters". It seems to be a trend, doesn't it? And Solomon jumps on the band wagon warning us not to envy or be with evil men. Yet, some still do. Why?
Some times we are naive and unaware of the hidden dangers associated with people we assume are of good character. Not until it is too late do some recognize the dangers. Other times, we are simply attracted to the evil like moths to a flame. They tend to be popular, have the latest gadgets, wealthy and politically connected. What more could you want in a friend? We often reason that they are not perfect, but then again no else is perfect either. Right? Wrong?
As my Dad always said, "Everything has a price associated with it.". So it is with becoming friends with evil. While we may gain instant fame, wealth and friends, the price tag associated is huge. You may not have to pay cash, but you will pay in morals, character, peace and your relationship with God. Yes, you may still go to church, pay tithes and visit the elderly but the relationship with God slowly deteriorates.
Our master stated it best in Matthew 6:24 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. No, we can't have our cake and eat it too. Nor can we have the spoils of a evil life and keep our relationship with God.
So, our parents warnings still ring true: Stay away from evil!
Proverbs 24:1
When we were children, our parents warned us of evil people who sought to do harm to little children. As we grew, our parents warned us against "hanging with the wrong crowd". As we matured, our parents warned against doing business with "shady characters". It seems to be a trend, doesn't it? And Solomon jumps on the band wagon warning us not to envy or be with evil men. Yet, some still do. Why?
Some times we are naive and unaware of the hidden dangers associated with people we assume are of good character. Not until it is too late do some recognize the dangers. Other times, we are simply attracted to the evil like moths to a flame. They tend to be popular, have the latest gadgets, wealthy and politically connected. What more could you want in a friend? We often reason that they are not perfect, but then again no else is perfect either. Right? Wrong?
As my Dad always said, "Everything has a price associated with it.". So it is with becoming friends with evil. While we may gain instant fame, wealth and friends, the price tag associated is huge. You may not have to pay cash, but you will pay in morals, character, peace and your relationship with God. Yes, you may still go to church, pay tithes and visit the elderly but the relationship with God slowly deteriorates.
Our master stated it best in Matthew 6:24 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. No, we can't have our cake and eat it too. Nor can we have the spoils of a evil life and keep our relationship with God.
So, our parents warnings still ring true: Stay away from evil!
