B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 36
June 13, 2012
Boomerang Blessings
Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed. Proverbs 13:21
As a kid, did you ever play with a real boomerang? Did you ever get it to actually come back to you, without chasing it down? No, I didn't either! After thousands of tries, I was convinced the guy advertising them must have had fishing line tied to it so that he didn't have to chase it down! I am convinced that real boomerangs did work, just not the cheap toys that I had. What a neat concept for something to go out and come back to you!
Solomon defines a slightly different boomerang above. And I can testify that it does work! When I do acts of kindness for others in Christian love, wonderful things come back to me! As the old saying goes, "You can't out-give God." and I believe it to be true. When I serve and give unto others with a loving heart, I immediately feel a warm, peaceful sensation welling up within. Although, the individual may or may not know who was the contributor, God does and he never lets a good deed go unrewarded. Many times I have begrudgingly submitted to doing His will only to feel guilty that I waited so long to obey. Have you?
When we move God out of the center of our actions and try to "do good" on our own, it is like the cheap toy boomerang - you spend more effort chasing around the return without the peace within.
So, listen to Him today. How does he want you to serve others?
As a kid, did you ever play with a real boomerang? Did you ever get it to actually come back to you, without chasing it down? No, I didn't either! After thousands of tries, I was convinced the guy advertising them must have had fishing line tied to it so that he didn't have to chase it down! I am convinced that real boomerangs did work, just not the cheap toys that I had. What a neat concept for something to go out and come back to you!
Solomon defines a slightly different boomerang above. And I can testify that it does work! When I do acts of kindness for others in Christian love, wonderful things come back to me! As the old saying goes, "You can't out-give God." and I believe it to be true. When I serve and give unto others with a loving heart, I immediately feel a warm, peaceful sensation welling up within. Although, the individual may or may not know who was the contributor, God does and he never lets a good deed go unrewarded. Many times I have begrudgingly submitted to doing His will only to feel guilty that I waited so long to obey. Have you?
When we move God out of the center of our actions and try to "do good" on our own, it is like the cheap toy boomerang - you spend more effort chasing around the return without the peace within.
So, listen to Him today. How does he want you to serve others?
June 10, 2012
Who's Son are You?
He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.
Proverbs 10:5
When I read this verse, I normally visualize a farm boy in a field of wheat. The wise son diligently strives to gather the harvest when it is ready vice lazily allowing it to ruin. However, Solomon may be alluding to Jesus discussion of the harvest of souls (John 4:35-38).
How are we performing as sons of Christ? Are we diligently striving to gather the harvest for our Master? Are we teaming with others to serve a common cause? We should consider the effort required by others in order for us to come to know the Lord. If we are truly grateful, we should do the same for others. Let us join in being a wise son of the "Son of the Living God".
Proverbs 10:5
When I read this verse, I normally visualize a farm boy in a field of wheat. The wise son diligently strives to gather the harvest when it is ready vice lazily allowing it to ruin. However, Solomon may be alluding to Jesus discussion of the harvest of souls (John 4:35-38).
How are we performing as sons of Christ? Are we diligently striving to gather the harvest for our Master? Are we teaming with others to serve a common cause? We should consider the effort required by others in order for us to come to know the Lord. If we are truly grateful, we should do the same for others. Let us join in being a wise son of the "Son of the Living God".
June 9, 2012
The Ultimate Insult
A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.Proverbs 9:13
Solomon minces no words in humiliating the foolish woman described above. While the verse seems harsh, I researched the adjective "foolish" in the biblical context - "void of understanding or sound judgment, unwise, imprudent, acting without judgment or discretion". Such a person is simple and knows nothing about a particular thing. So I guess Solomon wasn't off the mark as much as I thought.
Do we fall into the same category when it comes to our relationship with God? Do we make foolish decisions that impacts our spiritual well-being? Have we made poor choices that carry huge consequences? Yes, I am afraid we all have.
However, as Christians, we know the recovery plan for such actions - seek His forgiveness! Only when we fail to do so should we be considered foolish.
Solomon minces no words in humiliating the foolish woman described above. While the verse seems harsh, I researched the adjective "foolish" in the biblical context - "void of understanding or sound judgment, unwise, imprudent, acting without judgment or discretion". Such a person is simple and knows nothing about a particular thing. So I guess Solomon wasn't off the mark as much as I thought.
Do we fall into the same category when it comes to our relationship with God? Do we make foolish decisions that impacts our spiritual well-being? Have we made poor choices that carry huge consequences? Yes, I am afraid we all have.
However, as Christians, we know the recovery plan for such actions - seek His forgiveness! Only when we fail to do so should we be considered foolish.
June 8, 2012
Roommates
I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.Proverbs 8:12
We often are sometimes challenged with having to determine who we want to room with during periods of our life - summer camps, college and in the military. We often struggle with the decision and try to figure out which characteristics will make the best room mate. Is it someone we get along with well? The recluse that will leave us alone? It is always a tough decision that lends itself to second-guessing.
There is no doubt about the room mates described by Solomon in the verse above. They are naturals - prudence and wisdom go together like peanut butter and jelly. The results of combining them in your life is better than any PB & J sandwich! Wisdom claims that they develop witty inventions but I favor their impact in allowing us to make sound decisions. They result of their habitation in our lives ensures that we follow God's will.
Have you made room in your life to let these roommates in? More importantly, have you made room for Jesus in your life? If so, he will bring along his friends, wisdom and prudence, to stay with you. If not, please invite Christ into your life - it will be the wisest decision you have ever made!
We often are sometimes challenged with having to determine who we want to room with during periods of our life - summer camps, college and in the military. We often struggle with the decision and try to figure out which characteristics will make the best room mate. Is it someone we get along with well? The recluse that will leave us alone? It is always a tough decision that lends itself to second-guessing.
There is no doubt about the room mates described by Solomon in the verse above. They are naturals - prudence and wisdom go together like peanut butter and jelly. The results of combining them in your life is better than any PB & J sandwich! Wisdom claims that they develop witty inventions but I favor their impact in allowing us to make sound decisions. They result of their habitation in our lives ensures that we follow God's will.
Have you made room in your life to let these roommates in? More importantly, have you made room for Jesus in your life? If so, he will bring along his friends, wisdom and prudence, to stay with you. If not, please invite Christ into your life - it will be the wisest decision you have ever made!
June 7, 2012
Poor Intentions
I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.
Proverbs 7:16
We often try to justify someones actions by stating that they "had good intentions". Even though things did not work out as they planned, their intentions were honest and sincere. Solomon defines the opposite in the verse above. Nothing but poor intentions abound in the scenario provide by Solomon in chapter seven.
Taken out of context, the verse above sounds as if the individual should be the next candidate for the home decorating reality show. Good taste, latest style and worldly perspective are admirable characteristics of bedroom decorations, then and now. However, the woman's intention was not for the enjoyment of she and her husband. Rather they were for the enticement of unsuspecting lovers she sought out while her husband was gone. What a horrible motive for decorating the bedroom!
Are we any different today? Many have other than honorable objectives as they do great acts of kindness to the less fortunate or donate the most to the building fund at church. While they are admirable from the outside, God knows our heart. Are our efforts for His glory or our shame?
He knows our heart and we will be paid for our deeds - good or bad.
Proverbs 7:16
We often try to justify someones actions by stating that they "had good intentions". Even though things did not work out as they planned, their intentions were honest and sincere. Solomon defines the opposite in the verse above. Nothing but poor intentions abound in the scenario provide by Solomon in chapter seven.
Taken out of context, the verse above sounds as if the individual should be the next candidate for the home decorating reality show. Good taste, latest style and worldly perspective are admirable characteristics of bedroom decorations, then and now. However, the woman's intention was not for the enjoyment of she and her husband. Rather they were for the enticement of unsuspecting lovers she sought out while her husband was gone. What a horrible motive for decorating the bedroom!
Are we any different today? Many have other than honorable objectives as they do great acts of kindness to the less fortunate or donate the most to the building fund at church. While they are admirable from the outside, God knows our heart. Are our efforts for His glory or our shame?
He knows our heart and we will be paid for our deeds - good or bad.
June 3, 2012
Confidence Assured
Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.
Proverbs 3:23
In the early days of our marriage, my wife and I would watch the Miss America beauty pageant. My heart cringed when you would see one of the graceful ladies stumble on the steps or the runway. With all of the world watching, you know it had to be gut wrenching to stumble. I often wondered if they would ever compete again. I compared it to a race breaking its leg - they just don't have it in them to compete again.
Solomon's verse above gives us confidence in our efforts when we trust in God. He assures us that he will guide us, protect us and keep us from stumbling. What a promise! When we are challenged with the daily struggles of life, we can be confidently assured that God will keep us safe!
How is your walk today? Are you confidently assured that you will not stumble? Yes, even in high heels!
Proverbs 3:23
In the early days of our marriage, my wife and I would watch the Miss America beauty pageant. My heart cringed when you would see one of the graceful ladies stumble on the steps or the runway. With all of the world watching, you know it had to be gut wrenching to stumble. I often wondered if they would ever compete again. I compared it to a race breaking its leg - they just don't have it in them to compete again.
Solomon's verse above gives us confidence in our efforts when we trust in God. He assures us that he will guide us, protect us and keep us from stumbling. What a promise! When we are challenged with the daily struggles of life, we can be confidently assured that God will keep us safe!
How is your walk today? Are you confidently assured that you will not stumble? Yes, even in high heels!
June 2, 2012
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, 2012
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, 2012
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 26, 2012
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.
