B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 5
January 19, 2014
Wisdom Isn't Rocket Science
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
Proverbs 19:20
Solomon gives us instruction on how to become wise. Interestingly, he doesn't mention that we have to prove our wisdom. No profound statements or lofty writings are required to impress others. No, simply hear and receive instruction. Yes to a little more than just hearing - we have to apply the instructions to our lives.
Simply hearing how to build a rocket does not make me a rocket scientist. Likewise, hearing how to be wise is not the same as having wisdom. We have to put into practice what we hear. If I built a "functional" rocket in my back yard, I could be considered a rocket scientist (and one who sleeps on the couch!). Likewise, if we practice making wise decisions, we will be viewed as wise.
Don't confuse pride with performance. Just because I can impress you with my ability to calculate the gravitational force on the moon's surface doesn't mean I am a rocket scientist. I simply remembered the equation from college physics! The same is true with wisdom. Just because I can quote profound statements does't make me wise. But if I behave in a wise manner in my daily activities, I will be accounted as wise.
Aren't we glad wisdom is not rocket science? We simply have to apply the principles given to us in His Word to achieve wisdom. Even a dummy like me can achieve that!
Proverbs 19:20
Solomon gives us instruction on how to become wise. Interestingly, he doesn't mention that we have to prove our wisdom. No profound statements or lofty writings are required to impress others. No, simply hear and receive instruction. Yes to a little more than just hearing - we have to apply the instructions to our lives.
Simply hearing how to build a rocket does not make me a rocket scientist. Likewise, hearing how to be wise is not the same as having wisdom. We have to put into practice what we hear. If I built a "functional" rocket in my back yard, I could be considered a rocket scientist (and one who sleeps on the couch!). Likewise, if we practice making wise decisions, we will be viewed as wise.
Don't confuse pride with performance. Just because I can impress you with my ability to calculate the gravitational force on the moon's surface doesn't mean I am a rocket scientist. I simply remembered the equation from college physics! The same is true with wisdom. Just because I can quote profound statements does't make me wise. But if I behave in a wise manner in my daily activities, I will be accounted as wise.
Aren't we glad wisdom is not rocket science? We simply have to apply the principles given to us in His Word to achieve wisdom. Even a dummy like me can achieve that!
January 18, 2014
Seperate and Distinct
Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
Proverbs 18:1
Solomon has captured salvation in one verse! While we recognize Solomon as one of the smartest, it took me quite a while to fully understand his message in one simple verse. Our Savior offers salvation to all who will accept it - but we must desire it. As Solomon points out above, it starts with us taking the first step to desire His love and forgiveness. And the second step is separation - we can't be what we were before and be a new creature. We must forsake our old self and separate our actions from those before (2 Corinthians 6:17). As a result, our "old" friends will not normally accept such "new" behavior (Luke 6:22). While the challenge may seem daunting, when we "seek and intermeddleth" with Him, we are protected by a love greater than anything known on this earth! (Romans 8:37-39)
While we may not be wise or a great orator like Solomon, when we accept Christ's salvation and live our lives according to his will, we will be a separate and distinct witness of His love. What a better witness than each of us living a separate and distinct life for Christ?
Proverbs 18:1
Solomon has captured salvation in one verse! While we recognize Solomon as one of the smartest, it took me quite a while to fully understand his message in one simple verse. Our Savior offers salvation to all who will accept it - but we must desire it. As Solomon points out above, it starts with us taking the first step to desire His love and forgiveness. And the second step is separation - we can't be what we were before and be a new creature. We must forsake our old self and separate our actions from those before (2 Corinthians 6:17). As a result, our "old" friends will not normally accept such "new" behavior (Luke 6:22). While the challenge may seem daunting, when we "seek and intermeddleth" with Him, we are protected by a love greater than anything known on this earth! (Romans 8:37-39)
While we may not be wise or a great orator like Solomon, when we accept Christ's salvation and live our lives according to his will, we will be a separate and distinct witness of His love. What a better witness than each of us living a separate and distinct life for Christ?
January 17, 2014
Dry Bread
Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.
Proverbs 17:1
When I think of a "dry morsel", I imagine a piece of steak, tough as leather, that provides no satisfaction to the dining experience. However, Solomon is alluding to the atmosphere vice the food being served. Have you ever tried to enjoy a dinner when the tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife vice the steak? No matter how delicious the meal, how wonderful the presentation or the level of service - a meal served with strife and anxiety is not palatable. And it doesn't just affect those in contention but everyone at the table.
Paul tells us to not let the sun go down on our anger (Ephesians 4:26). Perhaps we should modify this rule to our feelings about others and agree not to sit down to dinner with strife amongst us? It will make the driest of bread seem delicious as long as there is laughter and love being served with it.
Proverbs 17:1
When I think of a "dry morsel", I imagine a piece of steak, tough as leather, that provides no satisfaction to the dining experience. However, Solomon is alluding to the atmosphere vice the food being served. Have you ever tried to enjoy a dinner when the tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife vice the steak? No matter how delicious the meal, how wonderful the presentation or the level of service - a meal served with strife and anxiety is not palatable. And it doesn't just affect those in contention but everyone at the table.
Paul tells us to not let the sun go down on our anger (Ephesians 4:26). Perhaps we should modify this rule to our feelings about others and agree not to sit down to dinner with strife amongst us? It will make the driest of bread seem delicious as long as there is laughter and love being served with it.
January 16, 2014
Dastardly Deeds
The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.
Proverbs 16:4
Some people are so evil that I often wonder why God doesn't strike them down. Some of the more despicable acts are flashed across the news and we can only shake our head in sadness that such dastardly deeds would be done by one human against another. While I will never understand what motivates someone to do such horrific acts against another, I often wonder what God thinks of our actions.
Solomon's verse above provides solace amidst the turmoil. God is still in control. While we may never understand why some things are allowed to occur, we can rest assured that God is aware and is in control. I have resigned myself to the fact that I can't understand my own thought process at times, why should I expect to be able to explain others?
We gain peace in the storm when we commit ourselves to God and allow Him to lead us vice us trying to judge others.
Proverbs 16:4
Some people are so evil that I often wonder why God doesn't strike them down. Some of the more despicable acts are flashed across the news and we can only shake our head in sadness that such dastardly deeds would be done by one human against another. While I will never understand what motivates someone to do such horrific acts against another, I often wonder what God thinks of our actions.
Solomon's verse above provides solace amidst the turmoil. God is still in control. While we may never understand why some things are allowed to occur, we can rest assured that God is aware and is in control. I have resigned myself to the fact that I can't understand my own thought process at times, why should I expect to be able to explain others?
We gain peace in the storm when we commit ourselves to God and allow Him to lead us vice us trying to judge others.
January 15, 2014
Foolish Folly
Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.
Proverbs 15:21
While silliness in toddlers is amusing, it is not amusing in adults. Nothing is more disturbing than watching adults behave in a childish manner. It is hard to accept such behavior due to the frustrations and anger that follows to those around. Unfortunately, the childish adults fail to recognize the error of their ways and just assume that frustrations directed towards them is not their fault. They seem to be oblivious of the consequences of their actions.
Solomon cautions us to behave in a proper manner since we are a reflection of Jesus to those around us. When we behave in a manner that is "uprightly" we reflect His love within us and have a positive influence on those around us.
Join me in keeping guard on our behavior so that we are viewed as a positive influence to those around us vice fools wrapped in their own folly.
Proverbs 15:21
While silliness in toddlers is amusing, it is not amusing in adults. Nothing is more disturbing than watching adults behave in a childish manner. It is hard to accept such behavior due to the frustrations and anger that follows to those around. Unfortunately, the childish adults fail to recognize the error of their ways and just assume that frustrations directed towards them is not their fault. They seem to be oblivious of the consequences of their actions.
Solomon cautions us to behave in a proper manner since we are a reflection of Jesus to those around us. When we behave in a manner that is "uprightly" we reflect His love within us and have a positive influence on those around us.
Join me in keeping guard on our behavior so that we are viewed as a positive influence to those around us vice fools wrapped in their own folly.
January 14, 2014
The Fountain of Youth
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
Proverbs 14:27
It is rumored that Ponce de Leon discovered Florida while searching for the Fountain of Youth. While he never found the restorative powers of the Fountain of Youth, he did discover something that continues to be a favorite destination of many people.
Many today mirror the tale - we are in constant search of an elusive goal but yet find treasures that we never sought. Sadly, we are focused on the insignificant rather than focusing on what is important. Solomon tries to refocus our attention on what is important in the verse above. Simply, put God first. If we seek Him, he will enlighten us to become better Christians. As a result, our attention will be on the items with an eternal value vice the fleeting fancies of this world.
Find the fountain of life, as promised by Jesus in John 4:14 - But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
Have you found your fountain?
Proverbs 14:27
It is rumored that Ponce de Leon discovered Florida while searching for the Fountain of Youth. While he never found the restorative powers of the Fountain of Youth, he did discover something that continues to be a favorite destination of many people.
Many today mirror the tale - we are in constant search of an elusive goal but yet find treasures that we never sought. Sadly, we are focused on the insignificant rather than focusing on what is important. Solomon tries to refocus our attention on what is important in the verse above. Simply, put God first. If we seek Him, he will enlighten us to become better Christians. As a result, our attention will be on the items with an eternal value vice the fleeting fancies of this world.
Find the fountain of life, as promised by Jesus in John 4:14 - But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
Have you found your fountain?
January 13, 2014
Wise Investments
A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.
Proverbs 13:22
We struggle daily to ensure that we manage our assetts wisely. Many continue to worry if they have saved and invested enough to ever truly retire without forsaking their standard of living. For the fortunate, they will be able to provide an inheritance for their children. If truly fortunate, some may be left for their grandchildren.
Solomon alludes to the blessing of leaving an inheritance to grandchildren. However, I am not convinced he is solely referring to financial blessings. One of the greatest gifts I received from my father and have passed on to my children has no monetary value. It can't be sold, traded or mortgaged but I value it above any other gift from my father - his reputation as a honest and just man. While I respected him while he was living, it was not until people came to pay their respect did I fully understand the positive impact he had on so many people. More than a gift, it was a legacy to pass down to my children and their children.
Too often, we get so focused on monetary gains that we fail to see the cost to our reputation. Regardless of our financial worth, what is the value of our reputation? By seeking God first, we will build a reputation beyond rebuke. And the rest will take care of itself as promised by Jesus in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Proverbs 13:22
We struggle daily to ensure that we manage our assetts wisely. Many continue to worry if they have saved and invested enough to ever truly retire without forsaking their standard of living. For the fortunate, they will be able to provide an inheritance for their children. If truly fortunate, some may be left for their grandchildren.
Solomon alludes to the blessing of leaving an inheritance to grandchildren. However, I am not convinced he is solely referring to financial blessings. One of the greatest gifts I received from my father and have passed on to my children has no monetary value. It can't be sold, traded or mortgaged but I value it above any other gift from my father - his reputation as a honest and just man. While I respected him while he was living, it was not until people came to pay their respect did I fully understand the positive impact he had on so many people. More than a gift, it was a legacy to pass down to my children and their children.
Too often, we get so focused on monetary gains that we fail to see the cost to our reputation. Regardless of our financial worth, what is the value of our reputation? By seeking God first, we will build a reputation beyond rebuke. And the rest will take care of itself as promised by Jesus in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
January 12, 2014
Loose Lips
Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
Proverbs 12:22
The World War II slogan of "Loose Lips Might Sink Ships" was intended to protect our sailors by preventing information from reaching the enemy. Solomon provides a stern warning to us on failing to watch our lips above. While the war campaign slogan had an immediate impact upon the lives of our sailors, Solomon's warning has a much farther reaching impact - the lying lips will have an impact upon where we spend eternity.
We can not have a heart of gold and lips spewing out lies. It is like having salt water and pure water in the same glass - the pure water becomes salty. As we pursue a closer walk with God, let's ensure that we keep a close watch on what we say. Our lying lips will hinder our ability to show the love of God to others.
Proverbs 12:22
The World War II slogan of "Loose Lips Might Sink Ships" was intended to protect our sailors by preventing information from reaching the enemy. Solomon provides a stern warning to us on failing to watch our lips above. While the war campaign slogan had an immediate impact upon the lives of our sailors, Solomon's warning has a much farther reaching impact - the lying lips will have an impact upon where we spend eternity.
We can not have a heart of gold and lips spewing out lies. It is like having salt water and pure water in the same glass - the pure water becomes salty. As we pursue a closer walk with God, let's ensure that we keep a close watch on what we say. Our lying lips will hinder our ability to show the love of God to others.
January 11, 2014
Rewards Program
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
Proverbs 11:30
Many credit cards have creative ways to reward you for your purchases. The more you spend, the more rewards you receive. I think there may be some logic lost in that process. However, it is not a new thing – the Bible has its own rewards program.
James 5:20 tells us, Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins. What greater reward can we receive? To save a soul from eternal death, just one, is unfathomable. When we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us, he will use us to lead others to Christ. And you get the bonus of knowing that a multitude of sins are forgiven! Can your credit card do that?
Perhaps, the question should be: “What is in yourheart?” It will bear fruit. With the right heart, the rewards are immeasurable.
Proverbs 11:30
Many credit cards have creative ways to reward you for your purchases. The more you spend, the more rewards you receive. I think there may be some logic lost in that process. However, it is not a new thing – the Bible has its own rewards program.
James 5:20 tells us, Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins. What greater reward can we receive? To save a soul from eternal death, just one, is unfathomable. When we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us, he will use us to lead others to Christ. And you get the bonus of knowing that a multitude of sins are forgiven! Can your credit card do that?
Perhaps, the question should be: “What is in yourheart?” It will bear fruit. With the right heart, the rewards are immeasurable.
January 10, 2014
Foolish Lies
He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.
Proverbs 10:18
This is one of those verses that just reeks havoc with our behavior. We often try to hide our true feelings by being nice to those we hate. Likewise, we gossip and slander those worthy of our contempt. The sad thing is that we thing no one knows our true feelings.
David warns us in Psalms 12:2-3: They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:
Even if our enemies don’t know our intentions, God does. So who are we really fooling with foolish lies?
Proverbs 10:18
This is one of those verses that just reeks havoc with our behavior. We often try to hide our true feelings by being nice to those we hate. Likewise, we gossip and slander those worthy of our contempt. The sad thing is that we thing no one knows our true feelings.
David warns us in Psalms 12:2-3: They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:
Even if our enemies don’t know our intentions, God does. So who are we really fooling with foolish lies?
