B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 71
May 11, 2011
Undying Hope
When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.
Proverbs 11:7
Solomon paints a pretty bleak picture for the non-believer. When he dies, all expectations and hope fade away. What a dismal outlook on life - when you die, all hope fades. What comfort does one have at the loss of a loved one if there is no hope after this life? Is seems extremely unfair to those left living.
For those who have surrendered their life to Christ, they know differently. For Jesus promised in John 14:1-3 - Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 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.
What an undying hope! To know that we have the promise of eternal life with Christ in heaven! As Jesus states in the first verse, our hearts should not be troubled - for we know there is more than just life on earth!
Proverbs 11:7
Solomon paints a pretty bleak picture for the non-believer. When he dies, all expectations and hope fade away. What a dismal outlook on life - when you die, all hope fades. What comfort does one have at the loss of a loved one if there is no hope after this life? Is seems extremely unfair to those left living.
For those who have surrendered their life to Christ, they know differently. For Jesus promised in John 14:1-3 - Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 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.
What an undying hope! To know that we have the promise of eternal life with Christ in heaven! As Jesus states in the first verse, our hearts should not be troubled - for we know there is more than just life on earth!
May 10, 2011
Business Sense
He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
Proverbs 10:4
If there ever was a proverb for the businessman, this would be one of my favorites! In the business market, it is seen repeatedly that a lackadaisical approach to managing the company results in ruin. It is only through diligent effort that one gains wealth.
If it is true for business, how much more so for our spiritual life? For it is truly only through diligence that we grow in stature as a Christian. The ones with a slack-hand approach to their daily life ends up in an abysmal spiritual situation.
How are you managing your daily walk with God? Are you diligent to ensure that your thoughts and deeds reflect your Savior? Or does your whimsical approach to Christianity reflect a lack of commitment? While only God can judge our hearts, our peers can see the fruit of our action. Just as you develop a business plan to grow your business, so should we plan to strengthen our walk with Christ.
Proverbs 10:4
If there ever was a proverb for the businessman, this would be one of my favorites! In the business market, it is seen repeatedly that a lackadaisical approach to managing the company results in ruin. It is only through diligent effort that one gains wealth.
If it is true for business, how much more so for our spiritual life? For it is truly only through diligence that we grow in stature as a Christian. The ones with a slack-hand approach to their daily life ends up in an abysmal spiritual situation.
How are you managing your daily walk with God? Are you diligent to ensure that your thoughts and deeds reflect your Savior? Or does your whimsical approach to Christianity reflect a lack of commitment? While only God can judge our hearts, our peers can see the fruit of our action. Just as you develop a business plan to grow your business, so should we plan to strengthen our walk with Christ.
May 9, 2011
The Art of Preparation
She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.
Proverbs 9:2
When I think of feasts, I think of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, 4th of July and Labor Day meals that challenge our waist lines. We are blessed with an abundance of food that is delectably made and good friends with which to share it. Truly joyous occasions that are remembered for years to come.
These events don't just magically happen - it takes a great amount of preparation and coordination. From menu and guest selections to purchasing and prepping the food, it takes a great deal of effort that is best suited for a team vice an individual. When it all comes together, great times and wonderful memories are made!
However, compare the effort for such an event to that listed in the verse above. Rarely do we slaughter our own food or make our own wine! The effort and time required for such an event grows exponentially! And why would someone do all of this work and then go out and invite complete strangers? It doesn't seem logical! But carefully consider what is being offered - not just a memorable meal, but wisdom and knowledge. And not for a price but for free! Ludicrous? Outlandish? Unorthodox? Perhaps, but is it any different than what Jesus did for us? He freely gave what we could not afford or obtain. He came to earth not as a ruler but a servant. He saved us but didn't save himself. Yes, he portrayed the seem illogical approach as Solomon describes in this chapter as well.
What have we done to lead others to Christ? Have we expended great amounts of energy? Have we been viewed as ludicrous, outlandish or unorthodox? How well have we prepared for the memorable event of strangers? If you are like me, I work feverishly every day. Sadly, it is not in preparation for the glory of total strangers. We should focus more on the art of preparation for others than our personal goals!
Proverbs 9:2
When I think of feasts, I think of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, 4th of July and Labor Day meals that challenge our waist lines. We are blessed with an abundance of food that is delectably made and good friends with which to share it. Truly joyous occasions that are remembered for years to come.
These events don't just magically happen - it takes a great amount of preparation and coordination. From menu and guest selections to purchasing and prepping the food, it takes a great deal of effort that is best suited for a team vice an individual. When it all comes together, great times and wonderful memories are made!
However, compare the effort for such an event to that listed in the verse above. Rarely do we slaughter our own food or make our own wine! The effort and time required for such an event grows exponentially! And why would someone do all of this work and then go out and invite complete strangers? It doesn't seem logical! But carefully consider what is being offered - not just a memorable meal, but wisdom and knowledge. And not for a price but for free! Ludicrous? Outlandish? Unorthodox? Perhaps, but is it any different than what Jesus did for us? He freely gave what we could not afford or obtain. He came to earth not as a ruler but a servant. He saved us but didn't save himself. Yes, he portrayed the seem illogical approach as Solomon describes in this chapter as well.
What have we done to lead others to Christ? Have we expended great amounts of energy? Have we been viewed as ludicrous, outlandish or unorthodox? How well have we prepared for the memorable event of strangers? If you are like me, I work feverishly every day. Sadly, it is not in preparation for the glory of total strangers. We should focus more on the art of preparation for others than our personal goals!
May 8, 2011
Treasure Chests
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.
Proverbs 8:21
When Solomon speaks of treasures given by wisdom, I get an image of the old pirate's treasure chest overfilled with sparkling gold and silver. The owners of the chest gather around it and gawk at its splendor. And occasionally, in private, they pull out each and every piece to admire and count. Each piece is lovingly lifted out of the chest and viewed with reverence and meticulously maintained.
However, for the Christian, they should have a different treasure chest. Jesus describes our motives in Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Definitely a different twist on where the treasure chest is hidden! Instead of digging a hole in the sand and marking it with an "X" on a map, Jesus directs us to hide it in heaven. And I am sure the nothing, including the devil, is allowed to disturb our treasures! And the items in such a chest have little earthly value - but will last for eternity!
Where is your treasure chest stored? And what have you filled it with? As you talk with God today, ask Him to fill your chest with items of eternal value.
Proverbs 8:21
When Solomon speaks of treasures given by wisdom, I get an image of the old pirate's treasure chest overfilled with sparkling gold and silver. The owners of the chest gather around it and gawk at its splendor. And occasionally, in private, they pull out each and every piece to admire and count. Each piece is lovingly lifted out of the chest and viewed with reverence and meticulously maintained.
However, for the Christian, they should have a different treasure chest. Jesus describes our motives in Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Definitely a different twist on where the treasure chest is hidden! Instead of digging a hole in the sand and marking it with an "X" on a map, Jesus directs us to hide it in heaven. And I am sure the nothing, including the devil, is allowed to disturb our treasures! And the items in such a chest have little earthly value - but will last for eternity!
Where is your treasure chest stored? And what have you filled it with? As you talk with God today, ask Him to fill your chest with items of eternal value.
May 7, 2011
Heartless Obedience
I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows.
Proverbs 7:14
Solomon portrays an evil woman's temptation throughout Chapter 7. In the verse above she brags of being religiously obedient but yet immediately afterwards, she out in the street sinning. We often think of her as the ultimate evil person - going to the temple and then seeking out some innocent man with which to commit adultery.
Yet, how many times have we attended church on Sunday and failed to read our Bible or pray for the remainder of the week? Or worse, completed our morning devotional and cursed the driver in front of us on the way to work. No, we are no different - we claim to be religious and sin immediately afterwards. In both cases, the heart is not in it. We go through the motions of religion without committing the most important part to our actions - our heart. If our heart is not attentive to God's will, our actions are useless, including attending church!
In order to prevent heartless obedience, we must first get our heart right with God. Then our actions will mirror our heart!
Proverbs 7:14
Solomon portrays an evil woman's temptation throughout Chapter 7. In the verse above she brags of being religiously obedient but yet immediately afterwards, she out in the street sinning. We often think of her as the ultimate evil person - going to the temple and then seeking out some innocent man with which to commit adultery.
Yet, how many times have we attended church on Sunday and failed to read our Bible or pray for the remainder of the week? Or worse, completed our morning devotional and cursed the driver in front of us on the way to work. No, we are no different - we claim to be religious and sin immediately afterwards. In both cases, the heart is not in it. We go through the motions of religion without committing the most important part to our actions - our heart. If our heart is not attentive to God's will, our actions are useless, including attending church!
In order to prevent heartless obedience, we must first get our heart right with God. Then our actions will mirror our heart!
May 6, 2011
Trapped!
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.
Proverbs 6:2
The verse above reminds me of trapping animals. When an animal is trapped, there is little they can do to escape. So it is with the words we utter - we become trapped with no escape! Whether it is bragging, lying or false promises, they all pin us down with no recourse. No matter which way we go, we will end up hurting ourselves or someone we care about.
After we are in the situation, we often ask ourselves "Why did I say that?". And the answer is simple - we did not guard our words. While it is easier said than done, we must guard against every word we say. Otherwise, we will end up hurting some one. There is a strong temptation for us to speak words we know are not correct. Yet, we feel compelled to do so.
There is consolation in putting your trust in God to lead you in your words and deeds. Paul tells us in 1 Cor 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. There is a way of escape from the temptation - trust your Savior to lead you then you will not become trapped by your words!
Proverbs 6:2
The verse above reminds me of trapping animals. When an animal is trapped, there is little they can do to escape. So it is with the words we utter - we become trapped with no escape! Whether it is bragging, lying or false promises, they all pin us down with no recourse. No matter which way we go, we will end up hurting ourselves or someone we care about.
After we are in the situation, we often ask ourselves "Why did I say that?". And the answer is simple - we did not guard our words. While it is easier said than done, we must guard against every word we say. Otherwise, we will end up hurting some one. There is a strong temptation for us to speak words we know are not correct. Yet, we feel compelled to do so.
There is consolation in putting your trust in God to lead you in your words and deeds. Paul tells us in 1 Cor 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. There is a way of escape from the temptation - trust your Savior to lead you then you will not become trapped by your words!
May 5, 2011
Mine, All Mine!
Let them be only thine own, and not strangers' with thee.
Proverbs 5:17
Taken out of context, the verse above sounds very selfish - not wanting to share with others. However, there are some blessings from God that are delivered personally. My wife is one example that quickly comes to mind. She is a gift from God. Otherwise, she would never stand for my annoying habits, encourage me to reach my full potential and be there to share quality time talking. She is special and unique. She was given to me by God and not to be shared with others.
In this context, the verse is very applicable. God has given us many personalized gifts that we are to share in grateful appreciation with our benefactor only. It is when I thank him for giving me such a loving and supportive wife that I recognize the magnitude of the blessing. He knows all things that are to come and he chose her especially for me so that we could weather the storms of life together. I could have never chosen the proper wife that would be with me through all of the many phases of life we have endured.
As you start your day in prayer, thank him for the many personal blessings that you can claim as "Mine, all mine" with heart-felt appreciation.
Proverbs 5:17
Taken out of context, the verse above sounds very selfish - not wanting to share with others. However, there are some blessings from God that are delivered personally. My wife is one example that quickly comes to mind. She is a gift from God. Otherwise, she would never stand for my annoying habits, encourage me to reach my full potential and be there to share quality time talking. She is special and unique. She was given to me by God and not to be shared with others.
In this context, the verse is very applicable. God has given us many personalized gifts that we are to share in grateful appreciation with our benefactor only. It is when I thank him for giving me such a loving and supportive wife that I recognize the magnitude of the blessing. He knows all things that are to come and he chose her especially for me so that we could weather the storms of life together. I could have never chosen the proper wife that would be with me through all of the many phases of life we have endured.
As you start your day in prayer, thank him for the many personal blessings that you can claim as "Mine, all mine" with heart-felt appreciation.
May 4, 2011
A Crown of Glory
She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.
Proverbs 4:9
When I think of crowns, I think of royalty. However, my perspective is skewed by worldly interpretation. David originally stated in Psalms 8:4-6 - What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: These same concepts are shared in Hebrews 2:7 and James 1:12 - that we are crowned in glory. What an honor to be lifted up to such a lofty position!
But when I consider that the only crown that Jesus wore on earth was a crown of thorns, my heart falters. Who am I to be lifted up by the one who stooped so low? While we enjoy the prestige of being honored, we need to remember the price of such honor. "He who knew no sin" gave up His glorious position in heaven and bore our sins to Calvary so that we may be honored when we follow Him. What a glorious love so humbly presented to us.
So as you wear your crown of righteousness, remember the price paid for such an honor. And never forget His love. In doing so, we can share with others the blessings he has bestowed upon us.
Proverbs 4:9
When I think of crowns, I think of royalty. However, my perspective is skewed by worldly interpretation. David originally stated in Psalms 8:4-6 - What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: These same concepts are shared in Hebrews 2:7 and James 1:12 - that we are crowned in glory. What an honor to be lifted up to such a lofty position!
But when I consider that the only crown that Jesus wore on earth was a crown of thorns, my heart falters. Who am I to be lifted up by the one who stooped so low? While we enjoy the prestige of being honored, we need to remember the price of such honor. "He who knew no sin" gave up His glorious position in heaven and bore our sins to Calvary so that we may be honored when we follow Him. What a glorious love so humbly presented to us.
So as you wear your crown of righteousness, remember the price paid for such an honor. And never forget His love. In doing so, we can share with others the blessings he has bestowed upon us.
May 3, 2011
Finding Favor
So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
Proverbs 3:4
What a blessed promise Solomon provides in the verse above! Stop for a moment and think of the magnitude of this promise - to find favor in the sight of God. Not just to be tolerated or accepted by God, but to be favored! We enjoyed the sensation of being recognized by our teachers in elementary school. It made my chest swell and my steps to be lighter. Such a sensation pales in comparison to being favored by God.
What action proceeds such a promise? Proverbs 3:3 tasks us with simply being honest and merciful. Not a huge task for such a gigantic promise, right? Not if we are walking daily with God but I challenge you to find yourself merciful when you are cut off by the antagonistic driver. Or when your children disobey your principal rules. Or when you are openly mocked by others. Not such an easy task anymore? Not unless you are in close communion with God. With His guidance and strength, we can overcome these challenges!
Perhaps, Solomon could be have abbreviated the requirements to simply - being one with God. When we are close to Him, we can communicate freely and draw on his strength. And we then enjoy being in His favor. What a blessing to enjoy now while we await our time with Him in heaven!
Are you favored? If not, draw close to your Savior and He will make you one of his favorites!
Proverbs 3:4
What a blessed promise Solomon provides in the verse above! Stop for a moment and think of the magnitude of this promise - to find favor in the sight of God. Not just to be tolerated or accepted by God, but to be favored! We enjoyed the sensation of being recognized by our teachers in elementary school. It made my chest swell and my steps to be lighter. Such a sensation pales in comparison to being favored by God.
What action proceeds such a promise? Proverbs 3:3 tasks us with simply being honest and merciful. Not a huge task for such a gigantic promise, right? Not if we are walking daily with God but I challenge you to find yourself merciful when you are cut off by the antagonistic driver. Or when your children disobey your principal rules. Or when you are openly mocked by others. Not such an easy task anymore? Not unless you are in close communion with God. With His guidance and strength, we can overcome these challenges!
Perhaps, Solomon could be have abbreviated the requirements to simply - being one with God. When we are close to Him, we can communicate freely and draw on his strength. And we then enjoy being in His favor. What a blessing to enjoy now while we await our time with Him in heaven!
Are you favored? If not, draw close to your Savior and He will make you one of his favorites!
May 2, 2011
When The Light Comes On
Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.
Proverbs 2:9
We have all had an "aha" moment when the light bulb finally comes on. A feeling of relief comes over us as we see things in a new light. Such is the same when we accept Christ as our Savior. We no longer are stumbling in darkness but His light of enlightenment shines upon us. While we do not instantly understand everything about the Bible, we are now equipped to seek out His truths.
We often struggle to convince our lost friends of God's eternal truths. Unfortunately, the light bulb is not on. And they argue and challenge even the simplest of concepts. However, we need to recognize their "blindness" and seek to show them the basis plan of salvation. Once they have accepted Christ, then their "eyes will be opened" to His amazing grace.
Has the light come on for you? Do you see God's plan for your life? Does your attitude reflect the compassion and enlightenment that comes with knowing your Master? If so, others will seek to know the source of your contentment in times of struggle and then you can lead them to the Master electrician!
Proverbs 2:9
We have all had an "aha" moment when the light bulb finally comes on. A feeling of relief comes over us as we see things in a new light. Such is the same when we accept Christ as our Savior. We no longer are stumbling in darkness but His light of enlightenment shines upon us. While we do not instantly understand everything about the Bible, we are now equipped to seek out His truths.
We often struggle to convince our lost friends of God's eternal truths. Unfortunately, the light bulb is not on. And they argue and challenge even the simplest of concepts. However, we need to recognize their "blindness" and seek to show them the basis plan of salvation. Once they have accepted Christ, then their "eyes will be opened" to His amazing grace.
Has the light come on for you? Do you see God's plan for your life? Does your attitude reflect the compassion and enlightenment that comes with knowing your Master? If so, others will seek to know the source of your contentment in times of struggle and then you can lead them to the Master electrician!
