B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 60
September 23, 2011
The Best Lawyer
Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee. Proverbs 23:10-11
People are cheated on a daily basis. Many are not be able to defend themselves physically, mentally or financially. And those who benefit scoff at the concept of equality in dealing with others. "Let the buyer beware" they laughingly say. However, I would counter that "cheaters beware of the Avenger".
Jesus tells us to turn the other check and forgive multiple times. The verse above provides comfort in knowing that God protects us. While we may be taken advantage of in christian dealings with others, we know that the Mighty One will plead our cause. What a comfort! But I shudder to be on the wrong end of that situation! It causes me to think twice in my dealings with others - am I treating others as Jesus would? If not, will he plead their case with me?
Let's look at our relationship with others today. Do we have the best defense or the worst prosecution lawyer facing us in the relationship? I am defenseless in defending my abuse of others when questioned by Christ. But likewise, my defenseless actions are defended by the best lawyer in the universe!
People are cheated on a daily basis. Many are not be able to defend themselves physically, mentally or financially. And those who benefit scoff at the concept of equality in dealing with others. "Let the buyer beware" they laughingly say. However, I would counter that "cheaters beware of the Avenger".
Jesus tells us to turn the other check and forgive multiple times. The verse above provides comfort in knowing that God protects us. While we may be taken advantage of in christian dealings with others, we know that the Mighty One will plead our cause. What a comfort! But I shudder to be on the wrong end of that situation! It causes me to think twice in my dealings with others - am I treating others as Jesus would? If not, will he plead their case with me?
Let's look at our relationship with others today. Do we have the best defense or the worst prosecution lawyer facing us in the relationship? I am defenseless in defending my abuse of others when questioned by Christ. But likewise, my defenseless actions are defended by the best lawyer in the universe!
September 22, 2011
A Painful Promise
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
I can't imagine the number of parents that have clung to the promise in the verse above. While we strive to teach our children in the way of the Lord, it is hard to allow them to "grow up" and make their own decisions. Whether it be their marriage partner, career or spending habits, we have the tendency to impart the wisdom from our own experience. While the "School of Hard Knocks" may be the best teacher, we definitely don't want our children to make the same mistakes we have made during the course of life. We only want the best for them, including a close relationship with God.
Much like all other aspects of parenting, the best teaching is accomplished through leading by example. Do we share with our children how we spend time each day studying God's word or do we demonstrate a "Sunday Only" approach to Christianity? They will see on a daily basis just how committed we are to living a Christian life.
We must face the fact that as our children grow, they must be allowed to make their own decisions. Much like Christ allows us to make a decision to serve him. While He is able to force us to follow his will, it is by our own choice that we choose to obey. And the same privilege should be afforded to our children. While we don't like it, they must make the decision on their own.
As a Follower of Jesus, let's follow His example: teaching the way to salvation, the keys to a christian life and allowing each to make their own decision. It hurts to allow such freedom but the joy when they reach the decision to follow Christ is well worth the pain!
I can't imagine the number of parents that have clung to the promise in the verse above. While we strive to teach our children in the way of the Lord, it is hard to allow them to "grow up" and make their own decisions. Whether it be their marriage partner, career or spending habits, we have the tendency to impart the wisdom from our own experience. While the "School of Hard Knocks" may be the best teacher, we definitely don't want our children to make the same mistakes we have made during the course of life. We only want the best for them, including a close relationship with God.
Much like all other aspects of parenting, the best teaching is accomplished through leading by example. Do we share with our children how we spend time each day studying God's word or do we demonstrate a "Sunday Only" approach to Christianity? They will see on a daily basis just how committed we are to living a Christian life.
We must face the fact that as our children grow, they must be allowed to make their own decisions. Much like Christ allows us to make a decision to serve him. While He is able to force us to follow his will, it is by our own choice that we choose to obey. And the same privilege should be afforded to our children. While we don't like it, they must make the decision on their own.
As a Follower of Jesus, let's follow His example: teaching the way to salvation, the keys to a christian life and allowing each to make their own decision. It hurts to allow such freedom but the joy when they reach the decision to follow Christ is well worth the pain!
September 21, 2011
Foolish Justification
There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD. Proverbs 21:30
It is sometimes amusing to listen to people try to deny God. Whether it is to deny His existence or justify why they have not accepted him as Lord of their life, the excuses are almost laughable. No matter how hard they try, the reasoning just does not stack up for a Believer. And Solomon captures it all above - there simply is no basis against God.
So why do people continue to struggle with such a simple concept? They are simply trying too hard! Salvation is not built upon scientific proof or historical accuracy but upon child-like trust. Jesus tells us in Mark 10:15- Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. A child does not try to use logic to make a decision - simply trust. So must we approach God for salvation. The proof comes upon believing in Him. While you may have difficulty verbalizing your emotions and trust - you will know deep down in your heart and soul that he exists.
While we may struggle trying to lead others to Christ. When they have many rebuttals based upon science, public opinion and history - we need to pause from the debate. We are not here to debate or prove but to present a living example of God's love. If we follow His will, He will take care of the rest.
It is sometimes amusing to listen to people try to deny God. Whether it is to deny His existence or justify why they have not accepted him as Lord of their life, the excuses are almost laughable. No matter how hard they try, the reasoning just does not stack up for a Believer. And Solomon captures it all above - there simply is no basis against God.
So why do people continue to struggle with such a simple concept? They are simply trying too hard! Salvation is not built upon scientific proof or historical accuracy but upon child-like trust. Jesus tells us in Mark 10:15- Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. A child does not try to use logic to make a decision - simply trust. So must we approach God for salvation. The proof comes upon believing in Him. While you may have difficulty verbalizing your emotions and trust - you will know deep down in your heart and soul that he exists.
While we may struggle trying to lead others to Christ. When they have many rebuttals based upon science, public opinion and history - we need to pause from the debate. We are not here to debate or prove but to present a living example of God's love. If we follow His will, He will take care of the rest.
September 20, 2011
We Are Never Alone
Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way? Proverbs 20:24
Have you ever felt abandoned? Truly alone? I am talking about the bottom of the pit of despair. No one understands and no one cares. You cry out to God but you feel like your prayers don't get pass the ceiling of the room in which you are trapped. You feel there is no solution for your situation.
Solomon points out the fact that we can not understand our own actions. How can we then understand why we feel abandoned? Let me share some verses that helped me get through such situations. Paul gives us excellent advice in Hebrews 13:5 - Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. It is comforting to know that He will never forsake us - but to be content? Surely, Paul did not anticipate such deplorable conditions as we suffer!
Let's look to our Master for guidance. When the disciples where in the boat in the storm, they feared for their life. It wasn't perceived danger - it was real. Each crashing wave reminded them that they were nearing the end of their life! But yet they had Jesus - literally and physically. And what did he say to his loved ones? "And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm." (Matthew 8:26) Hmm.. faith. What a wonderful concept! Paul tells us the power of faith in Hebrews 11. And David tells us in Psalms 118:6 - The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Do you still fear? Do you still feel alone? Take David's advice: In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears. (Psalms 18:6). Rest assured, he hears our pleas and he will answer.
Have you ever felt abandoned? Truly alone? I am talking about the bottom of the pit of despair. No one understands and no one cares. You cry out to God but you feel like your prayers don't get pass the ceiling of the room in which you are trapped. You feel there is no solution for your situation.
Solomon points out the fact that we can not understand our own actions. How can we then understand why we feel abandoned? Let me share some verses that helped me get through such situations. Paul gives us excellent advice in Hebrews 13:5 - Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. It is comforting to know that He will never forsake us - but to be content? Surely, Paul did not anticipate such deplorable conditions as we suffer!
Let's look to our Master for guidance. When the disciples where in the boat in the storm, they feared for their life. It wasn't perceived danger - it was real. Each crashing wave reminded them that they were nearing the end of their life! But yet they had Jesus - literally and physically. And what did he say to his loved ones? "And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm." (Matthew 8:26) Hmm.. faith. What a wonderful concept! Paul tells us the power of faith in Hebrews 11. And David tells us in Psalms 118:6 - The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Do you still fear? Do you still feel alone? Take David's advice: In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears. (Psalms 18:6). Rest assured, he hears our pleas and he will answer.
September 19, 2011
True Friendhship
Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour. Proverbs 19:4
Who says you can't buy friends? Solomon points out that wealth draws friends like moths to a candle. But are they truly friends? While they may appear to be friendly, what is their motivation? Your wealth or well-being? Such thoughts plant a seed of doubt about people's true intentions.
My wife and I have had our share of financial challenges. But looking in hindsight, we never felt closer to each other than when we teamed together to fight our way out of such challenges. And our friends then? The best we ever had!
It makes me stop and challenge my own personal motivation for friendship with others. Is it for my own personal benefit? Is it the "connections" they have in lofty positions? Or is it simply a matter of showing God's love to others? When Jesus came to the earth, he didn't pursue the rulers of the country or the church. Rather, he focused upon the dregs of society: the poor, the sick, low-income workers and tax collectors. What was his motivation? For His benefit or for their benefit? As Christians, we should be friendly to others, regardless of their station in life. Didn't He do the same to us?
Who says you can't buy friends? Solomon points out that wealth draws friends like moths to a candle. But are they truly friends? While they may appear to be friendly, what is their motivation? Your wealth or well-being? Such thoughts plant a seed of doubt about people's true intentions.
My wife and I have had our share of financial challenges. But looking in hindsight, we never felt closer to each other than when we teamed together to fight our way out of such challenges. And our friends then? The best we ever had!
It makes me stop and challenge my own personal motivation for friendship with others. Is it for my own personal benefit? Is it the "connections" they have in lofty positions? Or is it simply a matter of showing God's love to others? When Jesus came to the earth, he didn't pursue the rulers of the country or the church. Rather, he focused upon the dregs of society: the poor, the sick, low-income workers and tax collectors. What was his motivation? For His benefit or for their benefit? As Christians, we should be friendly to others, regardless of their station in life. Didn't He do the same to us?
September 18, 2011
Tearing Down Walls
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19
When we let our emotions run unchecked, stand by for disaster! We say and do things that result in us doing irrepairable harm to those we love. And no matter how hard we try, we can not erase our actions and words.
Solomon compares it to a strong city and bars on a castle - quite an obstacle to overcome! While we can soften the impact by honest and sincere apologies, the damage is done. We can continue to show our regret, but the memory remains. The best defense is a strong offense - against ever performing such an act in the first place. We need to keep our emotions in check from the onset.
And the best resource for holding our emotions in check? A close walk with God. He will lead and guide us in what we should say and do. But the first part is the hard part - a close walk with God. This only comes by keeping close through prayer and meditation on his word so that we can hear him when he speaks to us.
A close walk with our Father will ensure the bars and walls are never built in the first place. Then our life is not so difficult tearing down the walls we have built by our actions.
When we let our emotions run unchecked, stand by for disaster! We say and do things that result in us doing irrepairable harm to those we love. And no matter how hard we try, we can not erase our actions and words.
Solomon compares it to a strong city and bars on a castle - quite an obstacle to overcome! While we can soften the impact by honest and sincere apologies, the damage is done. We can continue to show our regret, but the memory remains. The best defense is a strong offense - against ever performing such an act in the first place. We need to keep our emotions in check from the onset.
And the best resource for holding our emotions in check? A close walk with God. He will lead and guide us in what we should say and do. But the first part is the hard part - a close walk with God. This only comes by keeping close through prayer and meditation on his word so that we can hear him when he speaks to us.
A close walk with our Father will ensure the bars and walls are never built in the first place. Then our life is not so difficult tearing down the walls we have built by our actions.
September 17, 2011
Blessed Silence
He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Proverbs 17:27
I often suffer from the disease of "diarrhea of the mouth" - continuous babbling when I should be quiet. And nothing good ever comes from it. Solomon tells us above that it is a direct reflection on lack of knowledge. And he is right, again. Likewise, James gives us excellent advise in James 1:19 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
When I stop talking and listen, I learn much, much more. If it is someone that I have just met, I gain a deeper understanding of the individual. If it is a loved one, I will actually understand their feelings and emotions. When I don't keep my mouth shut, I often go off on a half-cocked decision based upon minimal knowledge of the situation. And you can guess the results!
Isn't the same true with our relationship with Christ? I catch myself babbling about my needs or wants, what I think He needs to do for others and what I need to improve in my life. If I would just stop talking and listen, I would hear what He wants me to do. Why don't we pause in our babbling today and listen closely to God's words - the results will astound us! Only when we are listening, can we truly say "speak, for thy servant heareth" (1 Sam 3:10).
I often suffer from the disease of "diarrhea of the mouth" - continuous babbling when I should be quiet. And nothing good ever comes from it. Solomon tells us above that it is a direct reflection on lack of knowledge. And he is right, again. Likewise, James gives us excellent advise in James 1:19 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
When I stop talking and listen, I learn much, much more. If it is someone that I have just met, I gain a deeper understanding of the individual. If it is a loved one, I will actually understand their feelings and emotions. When I don't keep my mouth shut, I often go off on a half-cocked decision based upon minimal knowledge of the situation. And you can guess the results!
Isn't the same true with our relationship with Christ? I catch myself babbling about my needs or wants, what I think He needs to do for others and what I need to improve in my life. If I would just stop talking and listen, I would hear what He wants me to do. Why don't we pause in our babbling today and listen closely to God's words - the results will astound us! Only when we are listening, can we truly say "speak, for thy servant heareth" (1 Sam 3:10).
September 16, 2011
Enemy Suppression
When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16:7
In the military, much study and analysis is performed on how to suppress your enemy and minimize his impact upon your intended actions. Much is the same in our personal life. We spend numerous hours worrying about our enemies and how to minimize their harm. We devise counter maneuvers and build defenses to overcome the hostile actions of those we distrust.
Solomon points out that we are approaching the situation backwards. Instead of worrying about the enemy, we need to worry about pleasing God. If our relationship is right with God, he will take care of the rest.
How many times have you prepared for your enemy only to find out they did not react in the manner you anticipated? Just think how much more beneficial that time would have been spent pleasing God? Jesus recognized that we worry unnecessarily about all manner of issues, including enemies. But in Matthew 6:33 he states -"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Did he encourage us to worry about our enemies (or food or clothes)? No he encourages us to seek Him.
Seek and trust Him today. He will take care of the rest.
In the military, much study and analysis is performed on how to suppress your enemy and minimize his impact upon your intended actions. Much is the same in our personal life. We spend numerous hours worrying about our enemies and how to minimize their harm. We devise counter maneuvers and build defenses to overcome the hostile actions of those we distrust.
Solomon points out that we are approaching the situation backwards. Instead of worrying about the enemy, we need to worry about pleasing God. If our relationship is right with God, he will take care of the rest.
How many times have you prepared for your enemy only to find out they did not react in the manner you anticipated? Just think how much more beneficial that time would have been spent pleasing God? Jesus recognized that we worry unnecessarily about all manner of issues, including enemies. But in Matthew 6:33 he states -"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Did he encourage us to worry about our enemies (or food or clothes)? No he encourages us to seek Him.
Seek and trust Him today. He will take care of the rest.
September 15, 2011
Time With a Friend
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight. Proverbs 15:8
We often judge our devotion to Christ by how much we give financially. However, Solomon points out quite a contrast above. The Lord prefers our time and focus than a half-hearted financial donation. He doesn't want our surplus cash, he wants our life.
I often compare this to a marriage. If a husband never spends quality time with his wife but merely shows up with gifts, talks with her once a week - is it really a marriage? Is it even a relationship? Ask your wife - she knows the answer! And yet, many feel that a stroke of a check and few hours on Sunday checks the block with our Lord. Doesn't he deserve more?
We are quick to call out when we are in need or desperately want something. But we are also quick to forget Him when things are going well. And this is how we treat someone who gave His son's life so that we may have eternal life?
God doesn't want our surplus wealth (that he bestowed upon us initially). He doesn't want token effort at the church. He desires a relationship. And a relationship is built upon sharing. And the best way to share with our Lord? Through frequent and effective prayer and studying of His word.
Won't you be a friend to our Lord today and give him what he desires most? Time spent together in prayer. He will be delighted!
We often judge our devotion to Christ by how much we give financially. However, Solomon points out quite a contrast above. The Lord prefers our time and focus than a half-hearted financial donation. He doesn't want our surplus cash, he wants our life.
I often compare this to a marriage. If a husband never spends quality time with his wife but merely shows up with gifts, talks with her once a week - is it really a marriage? Is it even a relationship? Ask your wife - she knows the answer! And yet, many feel that a stroke of a check and few hours on Sunday checks the block with our Lord. Doesn't he deserve more?
We are quick to call out when we are in need or desperately want something. But we are also quick to forget Him when things are going well. And this is how we treat someone who gave His son's life so that we may have eternal life?
God doesn't want our surplus wealth (that he bestowed upon us initially). He doesn't want token effort at the church. He desires a relationship. And a relationship is built upon sharing. And the best way to share with our Lord? Through frequent and effective prayer and studying of His word.
Won't you be a friend to our Lord today and give him what he desires most? Time spent together in prayer. He will be delighted!
September 14, 2011
Secrets of the Heart
The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy. Proverbs 14:10
Not even our closest friend or loved one knows what is in our heart. We may think we know how someone feels based on their behavior and response. But we don't truly know and some are great actors! And I admit that I am also guilty of putting a smile on my face and kindness in my voice even when my heart is heavy.
Why do we try to hide our feelings? Because we are macho? Because we don't believe others are genuine in their concern? That they just won't understand? Because we are embarrassed to admit our faults? These and many more reasons cause us to pause in revealing how we truly feel. And it only causes us to walk around with pent up feelings and emotions that are just seething to be released.
There is One that knows our heart and he cares for us. David experienced the challenges of life more dramatically than I and spoke these words in Psalms 55:22 - Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. And he promised us in Psalms 147:3 - He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. What encouraging words for us that are suffering from a heavy heart.
When you feel that no one understands or cares, He cares for you. When we don't understand why things are happening - He understands and cares for us. When we are so broken inside, that words can't describe our pain - He cares for us. Remember the Beatitudes? (Matthew 5:3-12) Jesus described our hearts well: those poor in spirit, the meek, those that mourn, and those persecuted. All of these sound like some one with a heavy heart. And what did Jesus promise? Restoration of the heart. If he made our hearts, he can surely fix them.
I will leave you today with words from the expert: David. I encourage you to read Psalms 25. David clearly relates to all of us suffering from a heavy heart. Let us put our trust in the one that can heal our broken heart!
Not even our closest friend or loved one knows what is in our heart. We may think we know how someone feels based on their behavior and response. But we don't truly know and some are great actors! And I admit that I am also guilty of putting a smile on my face and kindness in my voice even when my heart is heavy.
Why do we try to hide our feelings? Because we are macho? Because we don't believe others are genuine in their concern? That they just won't understand? Because we are embarrassed to admit our faults? These and many more reasons cause us to pause in revealing how we truly feel. And it only causes us to walk around with pent up feelings and emotions that are just seething to be released.
There is One that knows our heart and he cares for us. David experienced the challenges of life more dramatically than I and spoke these words in Psalms 55:22 - Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. And he promised us in Psalms 147:3 - He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. What encouraging words for us that are suffering from a heavy heart.
When you feel that no one understands or cares, He cares for you. When we don't understand why things are happening - He understands and cares for us. When we are so broken inside, that words can't describe our pain - He cares for us. Remember the Beatitudes? (Matthew 5:3-12) Jesus described our hearts well: those poor in spirit, the meek, those that mourn, and those persecuted. All of these sound like some one with a heavy heart. And what did Jesus promise? Restoration of the heart. If he made our hearts, he can surely fix them.
I will leave you today with words from the expert: David. I encourage you to read Psalms 25. David clearly relates to all of us suffering from a heavy heart. Let us put our trust in the one that can heal our broken heart!
