B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 69
June 9, 2011
The Ultimate Insult
A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.Proverbs 9:13
Solomon minces no words in humiliating the foolish woman described above. While the verse seems harsh, I researched the adjective "foolish" in the biblical context - "void of understanding or sound judgement, unwise, imprudent, acting without judgement or discretion". Such a person is simple and knows nothing about a particular thing. So I guess Solomon wasn't off the mark as much as I thought.
Do we fall into the same category when it comes to our relationship with God? Do we make foolish decisions that impacts our spiritual well-being? Have we made poor choices that carry huge consequences? Yes, I am afraid we all have.
However, as Christians, we know the recovery plan for such actions - seek His forgiveness! Only when we fail to do so should we be considered foolish.
Solomon minces no words in humiliating the foolish woman described above. While the verse seems harsh, I researched the adjective "foolish" in the biblical context - "void of understanding or sound judgement, unwise, imprudent, acting without judgement or discretion". Such a person is simple and knows nothing about a particular thing. So I guess Solomon wasn't off the mark as much as I thought.
Do we fall into the same category when it comes to our relationship with God? Do we make foolish decisions that impacts our spiritual well-being? Have we made poor choices that carry huge consequences? Yes, I am afraid we all have.
However, as Christians, we know the recovery plan for such actions - seek His forgiveness! Only when we fail to do so should we be considered foolish.
June 8, 2011
Room Mates
I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.Proverbs 8:12
We often are sometimes challenged with having to determine who we want to room with during periods of our life - summer camps, college and in the military. We often struggle with the decision and try to figure out which characteristics will make the best room mate. Is it someone we get along with well? The recluse that will leave us alone? It is always a tough decision that lends itself to second-guessing.
There is no doubt about the room mates described by Solomon in the verse above. They are naturals - prudence and wisdom go together like peanut butter and jelly. The results of combining them in you life is better than any PB&J sandwich! Wisdom claims that they develop witty inventions but I favor their impact in allowing us to make sound decisions. They result of their habitation in our lives ensures that we follow God's will.
Have you made room in your life to let these room mates in? More importantly, have you made room for Jesus in your life? If so, he will bring along his friends, wisdom and prudence, to stay with you. If not, please invite Christ into your life - it will be the wisest decision you have ever made!
We often are sometimes challenged with having to determine who we want to room with during periods of our life - summer camps, college and in the military. We often struggle with the decision and try to figure out which characteristics will make the best room mate. Is it someone we get along with well? The recluse that will leave us alone? It is always a tough decision that lends itself to second-guessing.
There is no doubt about the room mates described by Solomon in the verse above. They are naturals - prudence and wisdom go together like peanut butter and jelly. The results of combining them in you life is better than any PB&J sandwich! Wisdom claims that they develop witty inventions but I favor their impact in allowing us to make sound decisions. They result of their habitation in our lives ensures that we follow God's will.
Have you made room in your life to let these room mates in? More importantly, have you made room for Jesus in your life? If so, he will bring along his friends, wisdom and prudence, to stay with you. If not, please invite Christ into your life - it will be the wisest decision you have ever made!
June 7, 2011
Poor Intentions
I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.
Proverbs 7:16
We often try to justify someones actions by stating that they "had good intentions". Even though things did not work out as they planned, their intentions were honest and sincere. Solomon defines the opposite in the verse above. Nothing but poor intentions abound in the scenario provide by Solomon in chapter seven.
Taken out of context, the verse above sounds as if the individual should be the next candidate for the home decorating reality show. Good taste, latest style and worldly perspective are admirable characteristics of bedroom decorations, then and now. However, the woman's intention was not for the enjoyment of she and her husband. Rather they were for the enticement of unsuspecting lovers she sought out while her husband was gone. What a horrible motive for decorating the bedroom!
Are we any different today? Many have other than honorable objectives as they do great acts of kindness to the less fortunate or donate the most to the building fund at church. While they are admirable from the outside, God knows our heart. Are our efforts for His glory or our shame?
He knows our heart and we will be paid for our deeds - good or bad.
Proverbs 7:16
We often try to justify someones actions by stating that they "had good intentions". Even though things did not work out as they planned, their intentions were honest and sincere. Solomon defines the opposite in the verse above. Nothing but poor intentions abound in the scenario provide by Solomon in chapter seven.
Taken out of context, the verse above sounds as if the individual should be the next candidate for the home decorating reality show. Good taste, latest style and worldly perspective are admirable characteristics of bedroom decorations, then and now. However, the woman's intention was not for the enjoyment of she and her husband. Rather they were for the enticement of unsuspecting lovers she sought out while her husband was gone. What a horrible motive for decorating the bedroom!
Are we any different today? Many have other than honorable objectives as they do great acts of kindness to the less fortunate or donate the most to the building fund at church. While they are admirable from the outside, God knows our heart. Are our efforts for His glory or our shame?
He knows our heart and we will be paid for our deeds - good or bad.
June 3, 2011
Confidence Assured
Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.
Proverbs 3:23
In the early days of our marriage, my wife and I would watch the Miss America beauty pageant. My heart cringed when you would see one of the graceful ladies stumble on the steps or the runway. With all of the world watching, you know it had to be gut wrenching to stumble. I often wondered if they would ever compete again. I compared it to a race breaking its leg - they just don't have it in them to compete again.
Solomon's verse above gives us confidence in our efforts when we trust in God. He assures us that he will guide us, protect us and keep us from stumbling. What a promise! When we are challenged with the daily struggles of life, we can be confidently assured that God will keep us safe!
How is your walk today? Are you confidently assured that you will not stumble? Yes, even in high heels!
Proverbs 3:23
In the early days of our marriage, my wife and I would watch the Miss America beauty pageant. My heart cringed when you would see one of the graceful ladies stumble on the steps or the runway. With all of the world watching, you know it had to be gut wrenching to stumble. I often wondered if they would ever compete again. I compared it to a race breaking its leg - they just don't have it in them to compete again.
Solomon's verse above gives us confidence in our efforts when we trust in God. He assures us that he will guide us, protect us and keep us from stumbling. What a promise! When we are challenged with the daily struggles of life, we can be confidently assured that God will keep us safe!
How is your walk today? Are you confidently assured that you will not stumble? Yes, even in high heels!
June 2, 2011
Conditional Promises
My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
Proverbs 2:1
Many "good deals" have fine print. We often think we are getting something that seems too good to be true and we eventually find out we were right - it was too good to be true! Many offers we consider each day have terms and conditions. We must carefully scrutinize each sentence and evaluate the potential impact of each statement on current and future conditions. Sometimes, even with the best of intentions and careful scrutiny, we get bested by the offeror.
Solomon starts out the second chapter of Proverbs with such a conditional promise. However, we are the beneficiary of a gracious and kind God. While he asks for our hearts and souls to be committed to him, the returns are beyond comparison. And when you add in the long-term benefits, there is no doubt we have gotten the better end of the deal!
Why not stop and thank your Savior for giving you such a "good deal"? Not only in this life but the life to come, we are truly blessed by a wonderful Savior and Friend!
Proverbs 2:1
Many "good deals" have fine print. We often think we are getting something that seems too good to be true and we eventually find out we were right - it was too good to be true! Many offers we consider each day have terms and conditions. We must carefully scrutinize each sentence and evaluate the potential impact of each statement on current and future conditions. Sometimes, even with the best of intentions and careful scrutiny, we get bested by the offeror.
Solomon starts out the second chapter of Proverbs with such a conditional promise. However, we are the beneficiary of a gracious and kind God. While he asks for our hearts and souls to be committed to him, the returns are beyond comparison. And when you add in the long-term benefits, there is no doubt we have gotten the better end of the deal!
Why not stop and thank your Savior for giving you such a "good deal"? Not only in this life but the life to come, we are truly blessed by a wonderful Savior and Friend!
June 1, 2011
A Horrific Nightmare
When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:
Proverbs 1:27-28
Alfred Hitchcock was well known for creating horror films that shook people for days. However, I believe Solomon penned the words above to shock us for the rest of our lives. It is the ultimate horrific nightmare.
Look closely at his careful description of the situation - desolating fear, whirlwinds of destruction, distress and anguish fall upon us. And then the ultimate terror - unanswered calls to our Savior. Have you ever lost a little child? Panic instantly wells up within you and is almost impossible to control. Such fear pales in comparison to the recognition that your refusal (verses 25 and 29) to accept Him has resulted in your pleading being ignored. If the Savior chooses not to save you, then who can? Is there any hope?
Sadly, all hope is gone. The situation has degraded to a disaster spinning out of control. Has your life experienced such a disaster? When nothing seems able to stop the mounting casualties of your choices? Then read the last verse of the chapter - unlike Hitchcock, Solomon closes the chapter with the promise beyond comparison: But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. (Proverbs 1:33). The promise of safety - the hope to which we cling during our nightmares. Those who have been bought with a price know the true meaning of "peace within the storm". Remember the famous Psalm 23? David also knew the peace of trusting in God. Will you not trust Him as well? He has promised to rid us of all nightmares!
Proverbs 1:27-28
Alfred Hitchcock was well known for creating horror films that shook people for days. However, I believe Solomon penned the words above to shock us for the rest of our lives. It is the ultimate horrific nightmare.
Look closely at his careful description of the situation - desolating fear, whirlwinds of destruction, distress and anguish fall upon us. And then the ultimate terror - unanswered calls to our Savior. Have you ever lost a little child? Panic instantly wells up within you and is almost impossible to control. Such fear pales in comparison to the recognition that your refusal (verses 25 and 29) to accept Him has resulted in your pleading being ignored. If the Savior chooses not to save you, then who can? Is there any hope?
Sadly, all hope is gone. The situation has degraded to a disaster spinning out of control. Has your life experienced such a disaster? When nothing seems able to stop the mounting casualties of your choices? Then read the last verse of the chapter - unlike Hitchcock, Solomon closes the chapter with the promise beyond comparison: But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. (Proverbs 1:33). The promise of safety - the hope to which we cling during our nightmares. Those who have been bought with a price know the true meaning of "peace within the storm". Remember the famous Psalm 23? David also knew the peace of trusting in God. Will you not trust Him as well? He has promised to rid us of all nightmares!
May 31, 2011
Marital Bliss
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Proverbs 31:12
As we near the summer, wedding invitations are arriving almost as frequent as sale papers in the mail. As we pick out the wedding presents, get dressed and attend the wedding, we all strive to say something profound to the new bride and groom that will benefit their journey together. Luckily, Solomon has provided such in the verse above. It is the crux of marital bliss.
Look closely at the words chosen to describe the relationship. Evil is not allowed to enter the relationship - ever. Before the husbands jump on his description of the wife, we need to recognize that relationships are built upon reciprocal actions. If the wife only does good, so must the husband. From the last bite of ice cream in the bucket to taking out the garbage, the marriage must be based upon doing good unto the other member.
If we pasted this verse on our bathroom mirror and strove to achieve it each and every day, just imagine what would happen to the divorce rate! Leaving someone that only does good is not comprehendable. Likewise, relationships would strengthen vice deteriorate. Paul challenged the husbands to "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it" Ephesians 5:25 Isn't it easier to give your life for the one who has always done good unto you?
What have you done good to your spouse today? Is it significant enough to be recognized by your spouse? Remember each act is another step towards marital bliss!
Proverbs 31:12
As we near the summer, wedding invitations are arriving almost as frequent as sale papers in the mail. As we pick out the wedding presents, get dressed and attend the wedding, we all strive to say something profound to the new bride and groom that will benefit their journey together. Luckily, Solomon has provided such in the verse above. It is the crux of marital bliss.
Look closely at the words chosen to describe the relationship. Evil is not allowed to enter the relationship - ever. Before the husbands jump on his description of the wife, we need to recognize that relationships are built upon reciprocal actions. If the wife only does good, so must the husband. From the last bite of ice cream in the bucket to taking out the garbage, the marriage must be based upon doing good unto the other member.
If we pasted this verse on our bathroom mirror and strove to achieve it each and every day, just imagine what would happen to the divorce rate! Leaving someone that only does good is not comprehendable. Likewise, relationships would strengthen vice deteriorate. Paul challenged the husbands to "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it" Ephesians 5:25 Isn't it easier to give your life for the one who has always done good unto you?
What have you done good to your spouse today? Is it significant enough to be recognized by your spouse? Remember each act is another step towards marital bliss!
May 26, 2011
Intrinsic Value
Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
Proverbs 26:23
Have you ever bought cheap jewelry? Is was so embarassing as an elementary-school beau when my true love showed me her tarnished arm in front of everyone on the school play ground. She loudly proclaimed how cheap I was and how my lack of sincerity caused her arm to turn green! And my face probably turned green with the realization that the jewelry that I thought was so shiny was so cheap.
It is often the same situation with our relationships with others. It is disturbing to find out what we thought was so flashy was just a covering over true filth below. Are we guilty of the same behavior? Do we loudly proclaim our love of God on Sunday only to verbally dash others on Monday? Don't be linked with those of little worth. Improve yourself from the inside out. And the only way to do so is to seek the Master that can make our heart all new. Then we can shine from the inside out.
Proverbs 26:23
Have you ever bought cheap jewelry? Is was so embarassing as an elementary-school beau when my true love showed me her tarnished arm in front of everyone on the school play ground. She loudly proclaimed how cheap I was and how my lack of sincerity caused her arm to turn green! And my face probably turned green with the realization that the jewelry that I thought was so shiny was so cheap.
It is often the same situation with our relationships with others. It is disturbing to find out what we thought was so flashy was just a covering over true filth below. Are we guilty of the same behavior? Do we loudly proclaim our love of God on Sunday only to verbally dash others on Monday? Don't be linked with those of little worth. Improve yourself from the inside out. And the only way to do so is to seek the Master that can make our heart all new. Then we can shine from the inside out.
May 25, 2011
Trusting Others
Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
Proverbs 25:19
I have never had a broken tooth but I have had sprained ankles, a broken right foot and a broken left leg. Each were painful, to varying degrees, but they were all cumbersome. Have you tried hobbling on crutches? If so, be careful of wet tile floors! (A different story for another day). You can not get anywhere in a hurry. Even with an electric scooter (tried it once in the grocery store with a broken leg - rather starve than try it again), maneuvering can be difficult. For one who is always on the go, it was so frustrating to be hampered from the most basic functions in life!
The same can be said of our frustrations when our trust in an individual is betrayed. We are frustrated at the outcome, angered at our judgement in trusting the individual and farther behind than we had hoped. Just as important, our doubt of others grows each time we are betrayed. It becomes harder to trust others with tasks or private, personal matters. Perhaps, we should just give up on trusting anyone?
Let's flip the scenario, how many times have you let down God? For me, it is more than I want to count! And yet, He still loves us and forgives us. Should we do the same to others? In fact, Jesus told us to forgive "seven times seventy" - has anyone truly let you down that many times? So let's bandage our broken leg and our emotions, and hobble forward. Our forgiveness of other's failures will allow the love of God to show through us to others.
Proverbs 25:19
I have never had a broken tooth but I have had sprained ankles, a broken right foot and a broken left leg. Each were painful, to varying degrees, but they were all cumbersome. Have you tried hobbling on crutches? If so, be careful of wet tile floors! (A different story for another day). You can not get anywhere in a hurry. Even with an electric scooter (tried it once in the grocery store with a broken leg - rather starve than try it again), maneuvering can be difficult. For one who is always on the go, it was so frustrating to be hampered from the most basic functions in life!
The same can be said of our frustrations when our trust in an individual is betrayed. We are frustrated at the outcome, angered at our judgement in trusting the individual and farther behind than we had hoped. Just as important, our doubt of others grows each time we are betrayed. It becomes harder to trust others with tasks or private, personal matters. Perhaps, we should just give up on trusting anyone?
Let's flip the scenario, how many times have you let down God? For me, it is more than I want to count! And yet, He still loves us and forgives us. Should we do the same to others? In fact, Jesus told us to forgive "seven times seventy" - has anyone truly let you down that many times? So let's bandage our broken leg and our emotions, and hobble forward. Our forgiveness of other's failures will allow the love of God to show through us to others.
May 24, 2011
Stay Away!
Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.
Proverbs 24:1
When we were children, our parents warned us of evil people who sought to do harm to little children. As we grew, our parents warned us against "hanging with the wrong crowd". As we matured, our parents warned against doing business with "shady characters". It seems to be a trend, doesn't it? And Solomon jumps on the band wagon warning us not to envy or be with evil men. Yet, some still do. Why?
Some times we are naive and unaware of the hidden dangers associated with people we assume are of good character. Not until it is too late do some recognize the dangers. Other times, we are simply attracted to the evil like moths to a flame. They tend to be popular, have the latest gadgets, wealthy and politically connected. What more could you want in a friend? We often reason that they are not perfect, but then again no else is perfect either. Right? Wrong?
As my Dad always said, "Everything has a price associated with it.". So it is with becoming friends with evil. While we may gain instant fame, wealth and friends, the price tag associated is huge. You may not have to pay cash, but you will pay in morals, character, peace and your relationship with God. Yes, you may still go to church, pay tithes and visit the elderly but the relationship with God slowly deteriorates.
Our master stated it best in Matthew 6:24 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. No, we can't have our cake and eat it too. Nor can we have the spoils of a evil life and keep our relationship with God.
So, our parents warnings still ring true: Stay away from evil!
Proverbs 24:1
When we were children, our parents warned us of evil people who sought to do harm to little children. As we grew, our parents warned us against "hanging with the wrong crowd". As we matured, our parents warned against doing business with "shady characters". It seems to be a trend, doesn't it? And Solomon jumps on the band wagon warning us not to envy or be with evil men. Yet, some still do. Why?
Some times we are naive and unaware of the hidden dangers associated with people we assume are of good character. Not until it is too late do some recognize the dangers. Other times, we are simply attracted to the evil like moths to a flame. They tend to be popular, have the latest gadgets, wealthy and politically connected. What more could you want in a friend? We often reason that they are not perfect, but then again no else is perfect either. Right? Wrong?
As my Dad always said, "Everything has a price associated with it.". So it is with becoming friends with evil. While we may gain instant fame, wealth and friends, the price tag associated is huge. You may not have to pay cash, but you will pay in morals, character, peace and your relationship with God. Yes, you may still go to church, pay tithes and visit the elderly but the relationship with God slowly deteriorates.
Our master stated it best in Matthew 6:24 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. No, we can't have our cake and eat it too. Nor can we have the spoils of a evil life and keep our relationship with God.
So, our parents warnings still ring true: Stay away from evil!
