B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 32
March 24, 2013
No Escape
If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?
Proverbs 24:12
There are many promises we happily claim in the Bible that serve to encourage us in serving the Lord. However, the promise in the last portion of this verse tends to remove the happiness from His promises. When we recognize that God knows our heart and judges us according to our works, it causes a jolt of fear to pass through me. Even though I am saved by His grace, I am not perfect. When I review this verse, it causes a parade of sins to pass through my mind that continue to plague me on a daily basis. While we may be able to hide our thoughts and actions from our peers, there is no escape from His judgment.
John states it best in1 John 1:8-10: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
And in the middle verse is our escape from judgment - forgiveness. While Solomon's verse brings me to awareness of my many daily sins, John provides me the key to forgiveness. If I confess my sins, he will forgive me. It is like a daily reminder that I can not live my life on my own, I need His power and grace to continue serving Him.
Have you made your escape today from the judgment you deserve?
Proverbs 24:12
There are many promises we happily claim in the Bible that serve to encourage us in serving the Lord. However, the promise in the last portion of this verse tends to remove the happiness from His promises. When we recognize that God knows our heart and judges us according to our works, it causes a jolt of fear to pass through me. Even though I am saved by His grace, I am not perfect. When I review this verse, it causes a parade of sins to pass through my mind that continue to plague me on a daily basis. While we may be able to hide our thoughts and actions from our peers, there is no escape from His judgment.
John states it best in1 John 1:8-10: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
And in the middle verse is our escape from judgment - forgiveness. While Solomon's verse brings me to awareness of my many daily sins, John provides me the key to forgiveness. If I confess my sins, he will forgive me. It is like a daily reminder that I can not live my life on my own, I need His power and grace to continue serving Him.
Have you made your escape today from the judgment you deserve?
March 23, 2013
A Missing Heart
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
Proverbs 23:7
We have all heard of half-hearted attempts. But have you heard of "no hearted" attempts? Solomon clearly defines such a situation above and if we are observant, we will see such behavior on a daily basis. At least with a half-hearted attempt, some of the heart is committed to the action being taken. But Solomon is describing a situation where there is no heart in the effort. In fact, the opposite action is desired by the heart and occasionally, it shows.
A perfect example is the distracted sales person who looks up from their texting/conversation/television watching/anything but desiring to help you activity and listlessly asks, "Welcome. How may I help you?". If you are gullible to ask the location for a piece of merchandise that is not within arms reach, you receive a response as if you had asked them to stop the world from turning! Does it leave any question in you mind if they had even the slightest inkling of desire to assist you in shopping? My most recent example occurred when I asked a sales rep for an item that was not stocked in the designated space on the shelf. He looked at me and said " Do you see any? Well, neither do I" and walked away!
Do we treat non-believers in such a manner? Is our heart truly in it when we invite others to church? Are we genuine when we welcome someone at church who just don't seem to fit the mold of the rest of the congregation? What do our actions display when we tell others of our salvation? Are we happy to share His mercy and love or are we embarrassed and timid?
Don't let your actions speak louder than your words - put your heart in to showing others the love of Christ!
Proverbs 23:7
We have all heard of half-hearted attempts. But have you heard of "no hearted" attempts? Solomon clearly defines such a situation above and if we are observant, we will see such behavior on a daily basis. At least with a half-hearted attempt, some of the heart is committed to the action being taken. But Solomon is describing a situation where there is no heart in the effort. In fact, the opposite action is desired by the heart and occasionally, it shows.
A perfect example is the distracted sales person who looks up from their texting/conversation/television watching/anything but desiring to help you activity and listlessly asks, "Welcome. How may I help you?". If you are gullible to ask the location for a piece of merchandise that is not within arms reach, you receive a response as if you had asked them to stop the world from turning! Does it leave any question in you mind if they had even the slightest inkling of desire to assist you in shopping? My most recent example occurred when I asked a sales rep for an item that was not stocked in the designated space on the shelf. He looked at me and said " Do you see any? Well, neither do I" and walked away!
Do we treat non-believers in such a manner? Is our heart truly in it when we invite others to church? Are we genuine when we welcome someone at church who just don't seem to fit the mold of the rest of the congregation? What do our actions display when we tell others of our salvation? Are we happy to share His mercy and love or are we embarrassed and timid?
Don't let your actions speak louder than your words - put your heart in to showing others the love of Christ!
March 22, 2013
Best Wishes
That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.
Proverbs 22:19
In the preceding verses, Solomon share the joys of wisdom and concludes the discussion with this verse. What if our conversations ended with the same summation? If all our actions and words were geared towards leading people to trust in the Lord, what a spiritual revolution we would have! The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) tasks us to teach others of His love and salvation. What a better objective summarized in Solomon's verse above.
If we commit to focus our efforts on leading others to Him, we will have less time and effort for other, non-Christ-like, behavior. I think we can all agree that a little less pride, arrogance, lust, hatred and envy in the world would be a great event! May the motivation above drive your actions today! May the best wish in the world be shared by you with all that you meet today.
Proverbs 22:19
In the preceding verses, Solomon share the joys of wisdom and concludes the discussion with this verse. What if our conversations ended with the same summation? If all our actions and words were geared towards leading people to trust in the Lord, what a spiritual revolution we would have! The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) tasks us to teach others of His love and salvation. What a better objective summarized in Solomon's verse above.
If we commit to focus our efforts on leading others to Him, we will have less time and effort for other, non-Christ-like, behavior. I think we can all agree that a little less pride, arrogance, lust, hatred and envy in the world would be a great event! May the motivation above drive your actions today! May the best wish in the world be shared by you with all that you meet today.
March 21, 2013
Rudder of the Heart
The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
Proverbs 21:1
Solomon depicts the heart of the king being in the hand of the heart and he steers it where He wills. Does God have our heart? Are we at His mercy in what we pursue from the heart? When God has our heart, He is in control of our thoughts and deeds. We follow His will without a second thought.
On a boat that is moving in the right direct, a little tweak of the rudder will cause a moderate course change and allow the boat to stay on course. On a boat moving slowly or in the wrong direction, the rudder is "thrown hard" or a large amount in order to regain course. Which is required of God to keep our heart going in the right direction? Are we attuned to His will? Or are we to preoccupied with our own desires that we fail to hear His gentle voice tugging at our heart? Do we only listen when there are hard rudder swings due to our inability to proceed down the right path?
Our heart must be right with God in order to hear Him. If we allow, the distractions of the world and our own desires will muffle out His guidance. Seek to get closer to Him today so that you, like Samuel, can say "Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth." (1 Samuel 3:10).
March 20, 2013
Glass House Behvior
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Proverbs 20:11
I am amazed that someone would ever design a glass house. It seems that the residents yearn for no privacy or are extreme exhibitionists. There could be no bad hair days or lounging around in ratty t-shirts and sweats. No worries about unannounced guests - you couldn't hide from them anyway! The majority of us prefer to hide within the confines of our home, away from the scrutiny of others. It is often in this environment that we can let our guard down and just be ourselves. Ahh, the peace of solitude!
Solomon points out that our reputation is known by God. Almost like living in a glass house - he sees our every move. He sees the facade we put up for others. He sees us when we are gladly serving Him. And He sees us when we try to hide our sinful behavior. Worse than living in a glass house, it is like living in a glass house with no curtains! Nothing we do can be hidden from our Master! Jesus warns us in Mark 4:22 - For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. And David better defines our situation in Psalms 90:8 - Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance.
The realization seems insurmountable - if we are trying to hide something from God. However, David has the proper perspective demonstrated inPsalms 139. His closing verses of the chapter sum it up well - Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
We simply need to recognize that we do live in a glass house in regards to our Lord's view of us and simply remember to always take a towel with us to the shower!
March 19, 2013
Gifts Galore
House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the LORD.
Proverbs 19:14
The movies dramatize the scene of reading the will after someone dies. Some are irritated, while others are ecstatic with their gifts from the recently deceased. Sadly, real life does not always reflect the movies. Sometimes there are houses and riches bestowed upon us as a parting gift from our parents while others inherit the heartache and frustration of resolving the meager remains of a life on this earth.
However, there is a gift much greater and more significant given by our Father in heaven - a prudent wife. What a blessing to receive! For this is the individual that will normally be with you the majority of your life, share your dreams, birth your children and team with you in raising your children. No individual has more interaction or impact upon your life!
Have you been blessed with a wife given to you by the Lord? If so, have you thanked Him today? More importantly, have you shown her the respect deserved of a gift from God? The appreciation and respect will positively impact your day as well as hers. Let's not squander the gift given to us by our Master!
March 18, 2013
A Half-Cocked Response
He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
Proverbs 18:13
We often go off half-cocked, responding before we hear the details. It happens so naturally, when we start hearing gossip about someone and make a rash judgement followed by a thoughtless response. We don't know all of the reported details let alone the actual truth regarding the situation. We simply pop off without fully evaluating the situation. We hardly ever know all of the details affecting the individual - has there been a significant loss of a friend, desperation, marital challenges, a troubled son or other factors that may be involved?
If we are to issue judgment, we should act like a judge. Decisions should only be made after fully evaluating all evidence and the factors affecting the situation. If that were the case, we would never judge for we can never know the situation of the individuals heart and soul. Jesus warns us in Matthew 7:2 - For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. Do you desire others to judge you in the same half-cocked manner? Or do you prefer that they provide support and encouragement during your time of need? The choice is ours - based upon how we do unto others.
Let's stop the half-cocked responses and focus on treating disturbing information the same way our Master does with us - with love, patience and understanding.
Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?
John 7:51
Proverbs 18:13
We often go off half-cocked, responding before we hear the details. It happens so naturally, when we start hearing gossip about someone and make a rash judgement followed by a thoughtless response. We don't know all of the reported details let alone the actual truth regarding the situation. We simply pop off without fully evaluating the situation. We hardly ever know all of the details affecting the individual - has there been a significant loss of a friend, desperation, marital challenges, a troubled son or other factors that may be involved?
If we are to issue judgment, we should act like a judge. Decisions should only be made after fully evaluating all evidence and the factors affecting the situation. If that were the case, we would never judge for we can never know the situation of the individuals heart and soul. Jesus warns us in Matthew 7:2 - For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. Do you desire others to judge you in the same half-cocked manner? Or do you prefer that they provide support and encouragement during your time of need? The choice is ours - based upon how we do unto others.
Let's stop the half-cocked responses and focus on treating disturbing information the same way our Master does with us - with love, patience and understanding.
Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?
John 7:51
March 17, 2013
The Forgiveness of Friendship
He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.
Proverbs 17:9
Our friends are not perfect, nor are we. As such, we often do things that require forgiveness. As Solomon states above, it is through love that we "cover a transgression" and forgive. Otherwise, the issue will ultimately ruin the friendship. The phrase of "burying the hatchet" refers to making peace and forgiving contentious issues. Too often we "bury the hatchet" but we leave the handle sticking out! This allows us to grab the handle and pull the issue back up during the next confrontation. Maybe "forgiven but not forgotten" is a better phrase?
As Christians, we need to practice what we preach. We speak of God's love and forgiveness but do we imitate it in our daily life? Do we practice forgiving and forgetting or do we continuously bring up past issues? Nothing grips my heart stronger than to witness true forgiveness from a friend. While I may apologize and seek forgiveness, it their action of true forgiveness that lifts my burden and renews my spirit. As Christians, we should practice forgiveness more often - it is the single act that imitates our salvation the best. For through the forgiveness of Christ are we no longer sinners. Lighten some one's load today by sharing forgiveness with them!
Proverbs 17:9
Our friends are not perfect, nor are we. As such, we often do things that require forgiveness. As Solomon states above, it is through love that we "cover a transgression" and forgive. Otherwise, the issue will ultimately ruin the friendship. The phrase of "burying the hatchet" refers to making peace and forgiving contentious issues. Too often we "bury the hatchet" but we leave the handle sticking out! This allows us to grab the handle and pull the issue back up during the next confrontation. Maybe "forgiven but not forgotten" is a better phrase?
As Christians, we need to practice what we preach. We speak of God's love and forgiveness but do we imitate it in our daily life? Do we practice forgiving and forgetting or do we continuously bring up past issues? Nothing grips my heart stronger than to witness true forgiveness from a friend. While I may apologize and seek forgiveness, it their action of true forgiveness that lifts my burden and renews my spirit. As Christians, we should practice forgiveness more often - it is the single act that imitates our salvation the best. For through the forgiveness of Christ are we no longer sinners. Lighten some one's load today by sharing forgiveness with them!
March 16, 2013
True Happiness
He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.
Proverbs 16:20
We spend a vast amount of our resources seeking happiness. Not only do we commit our financial assets but our time and relationships in search of finding happiness. Sadly, we often don't really know what we are looking for. How do you define happiness? Is it the largest house, the fastest car, the most exotic clothing or the latest electronic gadget? Realistically, each of these are much like us - they have a limited lifespan and can only provide a limited duration of happiness. Houses deteriorate, cars become old and worn, clothes go out of style and electronics are surpassed almost weekly. No wonder the goals we seek for happiness leave us empty and unfulfilled once we acquire them.
If we actually look at the dictionary's definition of happiness, you will see a key word: contentment. Most of the elusive items we seek for happiness have no ability to provide contentment. However, Paul states inPhilippians 4:11 that he has learned to be content in whatever state of life he may be currently residing. But how can we be content? Jesus tells us in John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. When we have the peace of the Holy Ghost, we have a peace not of this world. Likewise, the contentment that comes with this peace is not of this world. If we are seeking true happiness, we must look outside this world - to God's love.
True happiness and contentment can only be obtained by one method - having Christ in our lives. As such, we will have peace and contentment no matter what our state in life may offer.
Proverbs 16:20
We spend a vast amount of our resources seeking happiness. Not only do we commit our financial assets but our time and relationships in search of finding happiness. Sadly, we often don't really know what we are looking for. How do you define happiness? Is it the largest house, the fastest car, the most exotic clothing or the latest electronic gadget? Realistically, each of these are much like us - they have a limited lifespan and can only provide a limited duration of happiness. Houses deteriorate, cars become old and worn, clothes go out of style and electronics are surpassed almost weekly. No wonder the goals we seek for happiness leave us empty and unfulfilled once we acquire them.
If we actually look at the dictionary's definition of happiness, you will see a key word: contentment. Most of the elusive items we seek for happiness have no ability to provide contentment. However, Paul states inPhilippians 4:11 that he has learned to be content in whatever state of life he may be currently residing. But how can we be content? Jesus tells us in John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. When we have the peace of the Holy Ghost, we have a peace not of this world. Likewise, the contentment that comes with this peace is not of this world. If we are seeking true happiness, we must look outside this world - to God's love.
True happiness and contentment can only be obtained by one method - having Christ in our lives. As such, we will have peace and contentment no matter what our state in life may offer.
March 15, 2013
The Proper Perspective
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 15:33
Too often we lose perspective on our role as Christians. We long for the honor and respect but fail to recognize that humility is a predecessor! Unfortunately, our pride tends to take control and push for recognition. As a result, we are quick to point out our sacrifices and efforts as Christians in hopes of being honored for our contributions. However, Solomon points out that humility, not pride, is the prerequisite for honor.
We all have opportunities to serve others as Christians. However, it is how we serve them that matters. Do we serve others with the individuals benefit as the focus of our efforts or do we serve others with our recognition as the focus of our efforts. There are different motivations for our actions, some in a humble manner and others in a prideful manner. Without humility, our efforts are received in a different manner by the recipient and by God. No individual enjoys being treated in a haughty manner, regardless of their state of need. Nor does God appreciate our efforts if they are not genuine in the heart.
I am convinced our assistance of others falls in the same category as alms, prayer and fasting that Jesus speaks of during His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:1-7, 6:16-18). If our efforts are based upon peer recognition, there are no rewards. But if we serve in private, we are rewarded by our Lord publicly.
As we serve others, let's keep the proper perspective. Our service is to reflect upon our Lord not ourselves. He will honor us rather than ourselves.
