B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 59

October 3, 2011

Painful Love

My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.     Proverbs 3:11-12

We often view God as a kind and loving entity that is focused upon keeping us happy. It seems to give us a cozy feeling and allows us to place him in a neat little portion of our life. Unfortunately, it is not our world in which he exists. Rather, we are his children in His world.

As with our children, we are loved beyond our wildest imagination. We know that our children will not survive the dangers of life without enforced boundaries. If they disobey us or the laws of society there is a price of punishment that must be exercised. Do we punish our children because we hate them? No! Rather, because we care so much for their well-being that we must enforce the standards of safety and societal relationships.

Likewise, God knows that we can not survive without his boundaries. Why, then, do we complain when God corrects us for our wrong doing? Is He not expressing his endless love for us in protecting us from our own sinful nature? Would we not be frightened if he didn't care and allowed us to ruin our hope of eternal salvation?

As our sons have matured, nothing is more gratifying than to hear my son acknowledge my cautions with appreciation. So should we thank the Lord for his corrections! Rejoice in knowing that you are so loved by our Lord and Savior that he is willing to punish you for your wrong-doing.
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Published on October 03, 2011 01:00

October 2, 2011

Thrashing Temptation

To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;        Proverbs 2:12

I have often thought that as a Christian, I could resist temptation. Over the years, I have come to realize that I can't resist even a slice of cake! We often think that it is by some great human effort that we are able to resist a single temptation. And then we foolishly strut around like a proud rooster telling everyone how strong we are to resist said temptation.

Solomon, in his wisdom, extols the value of wisdom in the heart and knowledge in the soul (Proverbs 2:10) which delivers us from the temptation of evil men described above. Wisdom and knowledge comes from God (Proverbs 2:5-6), not from years with your nose buried in books! But Solomon didn't have Internet access and mass media attacking his morals on a daily basis. How can we ever resist the temptations of today?

Jesus was no stranger to temptation - he endured forty days of temptation after His baptism. He included it as His last request in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13). And acknowledge the weakness of the flesh in his disciples (Matthew 26:41). Jesus recognizes that we are physically unable to resist temptation but spiritually we can overcome.

Paul sums it up so well in 1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Paul provides much needed encouragement for people like me that think no one has ever had to endure my temptations and there is no way out. There is a way out - but how?

 God knows and is willing to show us. But to know, we must seek Him and he will give us the wisdom and knowledge to overcome each and every temptation. Before we were born, Jesus prayed to His Father for our protection from temptation (John 17:15). While our prayers may not be answered, I am most confident that God will answer the prayer of His one and only Son!

Stand fast against temptation today - for you have the promise and prayer of your Savior supporting you!
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Published on October 02, 2011 01:00

October 1, 2011

The Stupidity Factor

Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:   Proverbs 1:14

Solomon describes the enticing invitations provided by sinners in Proverbs 1:10-15. In the verse above, they invite the gullible to join forces with them and gain easy wealth. My father always cautioned me as a teenager that "the stupidity factor increased proportional to the number of boys hanging out with nothing to do". He explained that while one innocent, bored young man may not get in any trouble, put him with his bored friends and the odds of something stupid and wrong occurring increased with the addition of each additional bored teen. Sadly, he was right. And sadly, I proved the theory on more than one occasion!

Aren't we the same today? Rarely will you hear one person alone criticize another. But as the group of on-lookers grows, the critical, demeaning, demoralizing comments grow in proportion. Why is that? We have a tendency to be brave in our comments and actions when the group of supporters increases. We feel embolden to speak out, as long as we are with "friends" who share our view. But have you ever been in a group wandering in the wrong direction (in actions or words) when only one person has the strength to stand up for what is right? Quite a rain on the parade! Words are stopped in their tracks, toes lazily circle making imaginary figures on the floor while each quietly ponders his actions. While someone may be brazen enough to chastise the one challenging their actions, all know within their heart that they have done wrong. Do you have the moral fortitude to stand up? Jesus did make us the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13). Are we providing the proper seasoning to our peers?  We have a purpose that should prevent us from ever being bored (Matthew 28:19-20). Stay focused on your mission and you will  reduce the stupidity factor in your group!
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Published on October 01, 2011 01:00

September 30, 2011

Filthy Rejection

There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.     Proverbs 30:12

We often go through the rituals of approaching God without filling his presence. Afterwards, we wonder why he did not honor our approach to His throne. The words of Agur above may well be an indicator of our problem. David in his repentance for his affair with Bathsheba gives us a clearer understanding in Psalms 51:16-17: For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. Prior to offering sacrifices, God desires a broken and contrite heart. One who recognizes his filthy condition and pleads for cleansing (Psalms 51:7). Once we have confessed our sins, God will forgive us and give us a pure heart. There is nothing we can do ourselves to cleanse our heart - it comes only by God.

Jesus promises us "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." (Matthew 5:8). So, the next time you want to see your Master, cleanse your heart and you will be in his presence!
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Published on September 30, 2011 01:00

September 29, 2011

Smiling Alone

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.                Proverbs 29:18

Has life gotten in a rut for you? Each day seems like a miserable repeat of the day before. There is little joy or expectation when you awake. It reminds me of the movies - dark clouds, blustery wind, bitter cold and pelting rain attacks the hapless hero. A vivid image of how our lives can quickly become without a vision or dream.

I think back to the anticipation and excitement I had just prior to turning sixteen. I could hardly wait to get out of bed every day - each morning represented one less day until I got my driver's license! We have experienced the same feeling of hope and anticipation with relationships, marriage, careers and our children. Why? Because we had a vision of things to come! In our minds, we could see where these life-changing dreams would take us.

But over the years, the excitement dies, doubt replaces hope and anticipation becomes dread. We recognize that reality does not necessarily reflect our hopes and dreams. We soon look like all of the other people walking the streets with a blank, worried expression. I challenge you to count the people in a crowded airport (or on the street) that are walking alone and smiling. Why? The fire of hope has become a flickering candle as their vision or dream slowly dies within them.

As Christians, we should be one of the few in a crowded place smiling while being alone. Why? Because we have a vision with a promise - In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:2-3).

Are you looking forward to your mansion? Can you imagine the place the creator has prepared just for you? Can you describe the joy of being with your Savior? The anticipation and excitement should be adequate to put a beaming smile on our face even as we trudge through life's daily chores. Hopefully, I can count your smile in the next airport!
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Published on September 29, 2011 01:00

September 28, 2011

Foolish Trust

He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.     Proverbs 28:26

We often think it is cute when we see a toddler trying to do things for themselves. Such independence! But shortly afterwards, we observe the parents chasing after the little one trying to protect it from unforeseen dangers. I imagine our Father in Heaven is much like the parents of the toddler - rushing around to protect us from ourselves and preventing us from encountering unseen dangers.

How often we incorrectly assume that we can handle a situation all by our self? You know the really simple ones that could never go wrong? I mean, we don't have to depend on God for everything - right? Wrong. If we are not allowing God to direct us in every way, we are asking for trouble. David sums it up well in Psalms 20:7-8: Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.

Where do you put your trust? In your own strength or the One that never fails?
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Published on September 28, 2011 01:00

September 27, 2011

Less of Me, More of Others

Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.       Proverbs 27:2

No one enjoys being around the one that has done it all or seen it all. They are the authority on every subject! Their behavior ruins any conversation you attempt by their continuous interruptions based upon their personal experience. They are usually not someone high on your priority list to visit!

While it is easy to disparage others with this disease, it is highly contagious. If we are not careful, we can all succumb to its bitterness. I have caught myself attempting to listen to another pour out his heart only to catch myself interjecting my own experiences during their attempt to share their burdens. What was I missing? God's love. I was too stuck on myself to listen to their issue. I was too busy explaining my own experience to simply listen and show God's love.

Paul describes it best in 1 Cor 13:1 - Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. If we do not show love for others and are simply too hung upon our own experience, we are useless.

Let's focus on showing our love for others by simply listening rather than trying to impress. Most are not looking for a hero, they are simply looking for some one who cares. Jesus cares for us and we should do the same for others.
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Published on September 27, 2011 01:00

September 26, 2011

Contention Ceased

Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.  Proverbs 26:20

Have you had a long-running argument with some one? It seems every time that you meet, a heated exchange of words are soon to follow (or maybe just a cold shoulder at each meeting)? At times we wonder, will it ever end. Either they will not see things our way or simply apologize for their actions. Either way, the animosity remains.

Solomon points out that without fuel, the fire goes out. Likewise with our disagreements. Once we cease to be upset by the individuals actions or opinions, the contentions cease. It doesn't have to end in agreement or forgiveness. Simply, we are no longer bothered by their actions. And how is the best way to interrupt such an argument?

Simply to love them as Christ loves us. He gives us the instruction manual in Mathew 5:38-48:
 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

While the instructions are simple, they are not easy to follow. Unless you have the love of Christ in your heart. Show His love for you by showing others His love.
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Published on September 26, 2011 01:00

September 25, 2011

Concealed Purpose

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.       Proverbs 25:2

As we become more educated, we feel that we must be able to explain everything. But yet, there are so many things we can never explain. It frustrates us when we are unable to justify why or how things occur. Ever wonder why you are in the situation you are in? Can you fully explain it?

Paul captures it best in Romans 11:33 - "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" And Isaiah 55:8 tells us "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD." So it appears that it is hopeless for us to ever understand what God has in store for us or why we are in a situation that boggles our mind.

But Jesus provides us comfort in our confusion. He tells us in Matthew 7:7-8 - Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. What a comfort! Even when our education leaves us confused, God will provide us answers when we seek him.
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Published on September 25, 2011 01:00

September 24, 2011

Preparing for War

For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.   Proverbs 24:6

Solomon gives great advice for developing war plans. If we were Admirals and Generals in the military, we could benefit from this advice. But does it really apply to our daily lives? You bet! Paul clearly defines our daily battles in Ephesians 6:11-18. Alas, we are at war daily with the temptations of the world.

So let's look at the verse in how it applies to us in our daily battle. Who has the ability to provide "wise counsel"? While we may be quick to think of strong christian mentors that help guide us in our christian journey, let's see what Jesus says in John 14:26 - "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." Now that is some one upon who we can trust for wise counsel!! By listening to the Holy Spirit within us, we are led in a manner to win our daily battles.

Likewise, Jesus promises us safety and peace in the following verse of 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." Solomon refers to the multitude of counselors. And I can't think of a better multitude than the Holy Trinity. With the Holy Ghost within us and the Father and Son communing with us, we are assured the peace of God (Philippians 4:7)

So let us prepare ourselves each morning for our daily battle with the enemy by seeking the counsel of the Holy Ghost and seek the peace that only God can provide.
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Published on September 24, 2011 01:00