B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 55
November 12, 2011
Rooted in Righteousness
A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved. Proverbs 12:3
David starts off Psalms describing the righteous as a tree planted by the water (Psalms 1:3) and Solomon continues the description in the verse above. What is the significance of being rooted? Anyone that has witnessed a windstorm knows that trees not firmly rooted rarely survive the gusts of wind. It is the same in life, we are continuously buffeted by temptations and hardships. If we are not firmly rooted, we will suffer the same fate.
Are you rooted in His Word? Are you unsure of your convictions or not sure where to turn? Dig in the God's Word and he will strengthen your roots to withstand the gusts in life.
David starts off Psalms describing the righteous as a tree planted by the water (Psalms 1:3) and Solomon continues the description in the verse above. What is the significance of being rooted? Anyone that has witnessed a windstorm knows that trees not firmly rooted rarely survive the gusts of wind. It is the same in life, we are continuously buffeted by temptations and hardships. If we are not firmly rooted, we will suffer the same fate.
Are you rooted in His Word? Are you unsure of your convictions or not sure where to turn? Dig in the God's Word and he will strengthen your roots to withstand the gusts in life.
November 11, 2011
The Substitute Recipient
The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead. Proverbs 11:8
Solomon and his father, David, often talks of deliverance from evil and provides numerous descriptions throughout Psalms and Proverbs. But this is the only place where I have found a Substitute Recipient! I definitely want to be on the right side of such a switch!
While it would be nice to think that trouble will never beset us, sadly we know that is not the case. We all know that trouble that Job endured but look closely at the original description of this man (Job 1:1): perfect, upright, feared God and eschewed evil. While I strive to follow God's teachings, I don't think those adjectives aptly describe my performance as a Christian - especially the first one! Should I then complain of my predicament in life?
David pleads for deliverance numerous times throughout Psalms. Another man after God's own heart, David finds himself in situations that causes him to plead for God to deliver him. Of interest, never once does David justify the basis for deliverance upon his human abilities. Rather, he justifies his requests based upon trusting God, following God's word and crying out to Him that hears his prayer. And the Lord will deliver us when we trust, follow and call upon His name.
Do you feel overwhelmed in fighting the challenges of the world? Does there seem to be no end and no way out? Then follow Job and David's example of trusting God, following His will and crying out to the Lord. David promises us in Psalms 34:19 - Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. Trust in His promise to provide a substitute recipient while he blesses you!
Solomon and his father, David, often talks of deliverance from evil and provides numerous descriptions throughout Psalms and Proverbs. But this is the only place where I have found a Substitute Recipient! I definitely want to be on the right side of such a switch!
While it would be nice to think that trouble will never beset us, sadly we know that is not the case. We all know that trouble that Job endured but look closely at the original description of this man (Job 1:1): perfect, upright, feared God and eschewed evil. While I strive to follow God's teachings, I don't think those adjectives aptly describe my performance as a Christian - especially the first one! Should I then complain of my predicament in life?
David pleads for deliverance numerous times throughout Psalms. Another man after God's own heart, David finds himself in situations that causes him to plead for God to deliver him. Of interest, never once does David justify the basis for deliverance upon his human abilities. Rather, he justifies his requests based upon trusting God, following God's word and crying out to Him that hears his prayer. And the Lord will deliver us when we trust, follow and call upon His name.
Do you feel overwhelmed in fighting the challenges of the world? Does there seem to be no end and no way out? Then follow Job and David's example of trusting God, following His will and crying out to the Lord. David promises us in Psalms 34:19 - Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. Trust in His promise to provide a substitute recipient while he blesses you!
November 10, 2011
The Perfect Stain Blocker
Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. Proverbs 10:12
I am often amazed at what women can do with cosmetics. With deft application of bases, blushes, liners and enhancers, women can quickly hide pimples, wrinkles, blotches and a myriad of other facial flaws. When they have completed their application, they appear flawless and radiant! But in the evening, when the face is cleansed of all coverings, the blemishes remain. They may be hidden for a short period of time - but they return.
So are our sins. While we may be able to hide them for a short period of time, they eventually become visible to others and are always visible to God. But His love for us covers all sins. Not one or two major sins, but ALL sins are forgiven when we confess them to Christ.
What a feeling of relief! When we are cleansed by his love, nothing can compare. David sums it up well in Psalms 32:1 - Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Have you been trying to hide your sin by patching over them or taking care of them on your own? Come to our Savior and he will cleanse all stains.
I am often amazed at what women can do with cosmetics. With deft application of bases, blushes, liners and enhancers, women can quickly hide pimples, wrinkles, blotches and a myriad of other facial flaws. When they have completed their application, they appear flawless and radiant! But in the evening, when the face is cleansed of all coverings, the blemishes remain. They may be hidden for a short period of time - but they return.
So are our sins. While we may be able to hide them for a short period of time, they eventually become visible to others and are always visible to God. But His love for us covers all sins. Not one or two major sins, but ALL sins are forgiven when we confess them to Christ.
What a feeling of relief! When we are cleansed by his love, nothing can compare. David sums it up well in Psalms 32:1 - Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Have you been trying to hide your sin by patching over them or taking care of them on your own? Come to our Savior and he will cleanse all stains.
November 9, 2011
Forsaken Winners
Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. Proverbs 9:6
Solomon highlights that we must foresake foolishness in order to gain understanding. We all recognize that, in many cases, we must sacrifice something in order to gain items of higher value: atheletes sacrifice excessive effort exercising to achieve physical prowess, scientists sacrifice hours of research to develop their inventions, etc. Nothing we value is easily obtained without sacrifice.
Likewise, Jesus challenges his followers to forsake earthly treasures for his service. And he promises "And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." (Matthew 19:29)
What have you given up for Christ? As you forsake your goals to follow Him, he will bless you beyond measure!
Solomon highlights that we must foresake foolishness in order to gain understanding. We all recognize that, in many cases, we must sacrifice something in order to gain items of higher value: atheletes sacrifice excessive effort exercising to achieve physical prowess, scientists sacrifice hours of research to develop their inventions, etc. Nothing we value is easily obtained without sacrifice.
Likewise, Jesus challenges his followers to forsake earthly treasures for his service. And he promises "And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." (Matthew 19:29)
What have you given up for Christ? As you forsake your goals to follow Him, he will bless you beyond measure!
November 8, 2011
Immeasureable Treasure
For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Proverbs 8:11
We often are required to complete a financial statement that determines our net worth. But there are some things beyond measure. Solomon declares that wisdom is more valuable than "all things that may be desired". Quite a bold statement from someone who was quite wealthy. When you read of the riches he amassed for the temple, it puts into perspective the value he placed upon wisdom.
How much have you invested in seeking wisdom? Time, effort, prayer and concentration are all sacrifices required to achieve wisdom. Have you invested wisely? It is never too late to start! Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If we prioritize our efforts, the rewards will be immeasurable!
While we may not be as wealthy as Solomon, we can be as richly blessed by simply investing our time and effort seeking after the proper goals that last beyond a lifetime!
We often are required to complete a financial statement that determines our net worth. But there are some things beyond measure. Solomon declares that wisdom is more valuable than "all things that may be desired". Quite a bold statement from someone who was quite wealthy. When you read of the riches he amassed for the temple, it puts into perspective the value he placed upon wisdom.
How much have you invested in seeking wisdom? Time, effort, prayer and concentration are all sacrifices required to achieve wisdom. Have you invested wisely? It is never too late to start! Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If we prioritize our efforts, the rewards will be immeasurable!
While we may not be as wealthy as Solomon, we can be as richly blessed by simply investing our time and effort seeking after the proper goals that last beyond a lifetime!
November 7, 2011
Poetic Justification
He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed. Proverbs 7:20
Solomon spends the majority of this chapter discussing the fall of a foolish young man to an evil woman. In the verse above, she justifies why it is acceptable for him to spend the night with a married woman. While it appears to be obvious that such a justification is foolish, I am reminded of the famous lines of Robert Burns famous poem To a Mouse - "The best laid schemes of mice and men". Doesn't our plans often go astray?
We build great plans based upon our assumptions and justifications only to have them collapse like a house of cards. Is it simply due to random acts of nature? Or are we missing something during the planning process? Often when we plan, our conscious will twinge at some of our actions or intents. But we quickly justify them based upon the fact that "everyone else is doing it". Then we wonder why we fail.
Jesus explains the problem with our plans in Luke 6:47-49. When we come to Christ, hear his words and do them, we will succeed. If we choose not to follow his guidance, our plans are swept away. Is it not poetic justice that when we plan as men (or mice) we fail, but when we follow God's plan, we succeed? God has a plan for each of us from the cradle to the grave. If we will but listen, we will succeed!
Solomon spends the majority of this chapter discussing the fall of a foolish young man to an evil woman. In the verse above, she justifies why it is acceptable for him to spend the night with a married woman. While it appears to be obvious that such a justification is foolish, I am reminded of the famous lines of Robert Burns famous poem To a Mouse - "The best laid schemes of mice and men". Doesn't our plans often go astray?
We build great plans based upon our assumptions and justifications only to have them collapse like a house of cards. Is it simply due to random acts of nature? Or are we missing something during the planning process? Often when we plan, our conscious will twinge at some of our actions or intents. But we quickly justify them based upon the fact that "everyone else is doing it". Then we wonder why we fail.
Jesus explains the problem with our plans in Luke 6:47-49. When we come to Christ, hear his words and do them, we will succeed. If we choose not to follow his guidance, our plans are swept away. Is it not poetic justice that when we plan as men (or mice) we fail, but when we follow God's plan, we succeed? God has a plan for each of us from the cradle to the grave. If we will but listen, we will succeed!
November 6, 2011
Bug Splatter
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Proverbs 6:6
No one hates bugs in the house more than my wife. With the arrival of a single bug, the warning is sounded and all-out-war commences! Physical, chemical and sound wave weaponry is deployed with a vengeance rarely seen in her normally calm demeanor. I used to think she was frightened by the critters but I have slowly realized it is not fear but a protection of her domain. They may rule the outdoors but nothing comes into the home without her permission!
But even with such theatrics in our home, we need to closely listen to Solomon's advice in gaining wisdom from observing the ant. While we can often quote the fact that they gather food in the time of harvest, we tend to skip over the verse in between the two: "Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler," (Proverbs 6:7). Now that I think about it, I have never observed coronations, elections or debates among the ants before they were mercilessly splattered. We never hear of political boundaries between ants or democratic resolutions to resolve ant brutality. Why? For they all strive to ensure the benefit of the whole colony. They are not concerned with their position within the colony - they simply go about performing their role without the expectation for promotion or recognition.
Wouldn't it be great if we worked together in the same manner at church? We are working toward a common goal. Right? And what benefit is recognition on earth? Shouldn't the goal be recognition by our Master? Could we function without a guide, overseer or ruler? Nope, I am afraid the old "P" word would get in our way. People take pride in their sacrifices (and are happy to boast about them). People take pride in their honors and recognition. People take pride in their positions held within the church. Yes, pride keeps the church from functioning smoothly without a guide.
Perhaps we should squash our pride instead of the bugs? Then we could also be used as an example of selfless sacrifice to a common goal of glorifying our Saviour!
No one hates bugs in the house more than my wife. With the arrival of a single bug, the warning is sounded and all-out-war commences! Physical, chemical and sound wave weaponry is deployed with a vengeance rarely seen in her normally calm demeanor. I used to think she was frightened by the critters but I have slowly realized it is not fear but a protection of her domain. They may rule the outdoors but nothing comes into the home without her permission!
But even with such theatrics in our home, we need to closely listen to Solomon's advice in gaining wisdom from observing the ant. While we can often quote the fact that they gather food in the time of harvest, we tend to skip over the verse in between the two: "Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler," (Proverbs 6:7). Now that I think about it, I have never observed coronations, elections or debates among the ants before they were mercilessly splattered. We never hear of political boundaries between ants or democratic resolutions to resolve ant brutality. Why? For they all strive to ensure the benefit of the whole colony. They are not concerned with their position within the colony - they simply go about performing their role without the expectation for promotion or recognition.
Wouldn't it be great if we worked together in the same manner at church? We are working toward a common goal. Right? And what benefit is recognition on earth? Shouldn't the goal be recognition by our Master? Could we function without a guide, overseer or ruler? Nope, I am afraid the old "P" word would get in our way. People take pride in their sacrifices (and are happy to boast about them). People take pride in their honors and recognition. People take pride in their positions held within the church. Yes, pride keeps the church from functioning smoothly without a guide.
Perhaps we should squash our pride instead of the bugs? Then we could also be used as an example of selfless sacrifice to a common goal of glorifying our Saviour!
November 5, 2011
Escape From Despair
Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: Proverbs 5:9
Solomon paints a dismal picture of the price of a sinful life. At some point, reality strikes and exposes our choices for what they truly are. With a sickening sense of hopelessness, we realize that we have squandered our honor and efforts for the benefit of others who could care less for our well-being. In utter despair, we feel that no one cares and we deserve the punishment and degradation bestowed upon our miserable life.
But a faint glimmer of hope beckons with the realization that Jesus is waiting for us to call upon him. David describes it best in Psalms 71:4-5 - Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. He is able to deliver us from any despair we encounter, if we trust in him.
Have you encountered such a time of despair? I encourage you to read Psalms 34. As God's children, He will hear and answer our pleas. I will leave the closing verses for your encouragement:
The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. (Psalms 34:17-22)
Solomon paints a dismal picture of the price of a sinful life. At some point, reality strikes and exposes our choices for what they truly are. With a sickening sense of hopelessness, we realize that we have squandered our honor and efforts for the benefit of others who could care less for our well-being. In utter despair, we feel that no one cares and we deserve the punishment and degradation bestowed upon our miserable life.
But a faint glimmer of hope beckons with the realization that Jesus is waiting for us to call upon him. David describes it best in Psalms 71:4-5 - Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. He is able to deliver us from any despair we encounter, if we trust in him.
Have you encountered such a time of despair? I encourage you to read Psalms 34. As God's children, He will hear and answer our pleas. I will leave the closing verses for your encouragement:
The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. (Psalms 34:17-22)
November 4, 2011
Dangerous Detour
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. Proverbs 4:14-15
Solomon is very explicit in his warning to steer clear of evil men and their wicked ways! Not one or two but four descriptions are used to describe how to stay away from evil. Essentially, he is saying don't even come close to it! But why? If you are Godly person, can't you withstand the temptation?
I think Jesus aptly described our situation in Matthew 26:41 - Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. And he recognized our weakness to temptation by including it in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13). Truly Jesus recognized our weakness to resist temptation and encouraged us to seek protection. Hence, Solomon's stern warning not to allow ourselves to get into the position of temptation.
And James describes the results of such evil temptations in James 1:14-15 - But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
An old saying states, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." And Solomon was trying to prevent our fall into sin. So heed his warning and take the detour around the disaster of temptation!
Solomon is very explicit in his warning to steer clear of evil men and their wicked ways! Not one or two but four descriptions are used to describe how to stay away from evil. Essentially, he is saying don't even come close to it! But why? If you are Godly person, can't you withstand the temptation?
I think Jesus aptly described our situation in Matthew 26:41 - Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. And he recognized our weakness to temptation by including it in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13). Truly Jesus recognized our weakness to resist temptation and encouraged us to seek protection. Hence, Solomon's stern warning not to allow ourselves to get into the position of temptation.
And James describes the results of such evil temptations in James 1:14-15 - But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
An old saying states, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." And Solomon was trying to prevent our fall into sin. So heed his warning and take the detour around the disaster of temptation!
November 3, 2011
Unappreciated Kindness
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. Proverbs 3:27
We are happy when we can do good for those we love. There is no greater sense of satisfaction than when we bask in the appreciation from someone that we have just done a good deed. Their sincere appreciation causes our chest to swell with pride and our steps a little lighter. But what about those who are not appreciative?
It is difficult to share kindness or good deeds with those who are not appreciative - almost as if it is expected of you. No appreciation is shown and they continue in their same old lifestyle without a moment's hesitation to appreciate your deeds. When the next opportunity arises, if is even more difficult for you to share your efforts with them. For you know there will be no appreciation nor a positive response.
But God has set the example for us to follow. When the Israelites repeatedly turned away, he continued to show his love and mercy. Even when they wished to return to captivity, God did not forsake them. Hasn't he done the same for us? Can any of us claim to be without sin? Even after He gave His Son to die for us?
When we hesitate to share goodness with others, we need to compare the value of our gift against that of God. Does it come any where close to giving up you one and only son? I didn't think so. And it causes us to recognize the lack of love for others. We need to recognize where our blessings originate (not from us) and be happy to be used by our Savior to share goodness with others. Regardless of the appreciation.
We are happy when we can do good for those we love. There is no greater sense of satisfaction than when we bask in the appreciation from someone that we have just done a good deed. Their sincere appreciation causes our chest to swell with pride and our steps a little lighter. But what about those who are not appreciative?
It is difficult to share kindness or good deeds with those who are not appreciative - almost as if it is expected of you. No appreciation is shown and they continue in their same old lifestyle without a moment's hesitation to appreciate your deeds. When the next opportunity arises, if is even more difficult for you to share your efforts with them. For you know there will be no appreciation nor a positive response.
But God has set the example for us to follow. When the Israelites repeatedly turned away, he continued to show his love and mercy. Even when they wished to return to captivity, God did not forsake them. Hasn't he done the same for us? Can any of us claim to be without sin? Even after He gave His Son to die for us?
When we hesitate to share goodness with others, we need to compare the value of our gift against that of God. Does it come any where close to giving up you one and only son? I didn't think so. And it causes us to recognize the lack of love for others. We need to recognize where our blessings originate (not from us) and be happy to be used by our Savior to share goodness with others. Regardless of the appreciation.
