B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 72
May 1, 2011
Justified Mockery
But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;
Proverbs 1:25-26
We are easily angered when someone mocks us. We don't appreciate people laughing at our expense, especially when it was a painful experience for us. We feel foolish and embarrassed that others are enjoying our discomfort.
However, Solomon highlights a simple fact: Wisdom is justified in mocking our calamity, when we don't listen. Nothing is more painful than having to acknowledge someones "I told you so" when we have failed. We ultimately tried to do things on our own and failed. Although God is trying to lead us, we choose not to. And it is only after calamity has struck that we recognize the foolishness of our ways.
While we may be stubborn in doing things our own way, perhaps the recognition of the justified mockery that will surely come, can provide us incentive to follow God's will vice our own. Seek His will and live without mockery! (Psalms 119)
Proverbs 1:25-26
We are easily angered when someone mocks us. We don't appreciate people laughing at our expense, especially when it was a painful experience for us. We feel foolish and embarrassed that others are enjoying our discomfort.
However, Solomon highlights a simple fact: Wisdom is justified in mocking our calamity, when we don't listen. Nothing is more painful than having to acknowledge someones "I told you so" when we have failed. We ultimately tried to do things on our own and failed. Although God is trying to lead us, we choose not to. And it is only after calamity has struck that we recognize the foolishness of our ways.
While we may be stubborn in doing things our own way, perhaps the recognition of the justified mockery that will surely come, can provide us incentive to follow God's will vice our own. Seek His will and live without mockery! (Psalms 119)
April 30, 2011
Self Assessment
Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man. I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.
Proverbs 30:2-3
It is sometimes depressing when we honestly assess our situation. Not what we want to be but what we really are. We often "miss the mark" in our aspirations. While it is not pleasant, it is often necessary in order for us to improve.
Many factors can be the cause of our poor achievements but one factor almost always is the cause for me: I try to do it on my own. While the goal seems simple and easily achievable, I often fail to recognize my own limitations. It is only after honest appraisal that I recognize my need for God's assistance. For it is through Him that I can do all things (Phil 4:13).
Would it not be easier if we recognized this need before we set out on a new quest? Yes, but I often feel that I can do it "on my own". It is only after failure and assessment that I recognize my continual need for His strength and grace. Hopefully, we can become wiser and recognize our need of God's presence in all that we do!
Proverbs 30:2-3
It is sometimes depressing when we honestly assess our situation. Not what we want to be but what we really are. We often "miss the mark" in our aspirations. While it is not pleasant, it is often necessary in order for us to improve.
Many factors can be the cause of our poor achievements but one factor almost always is the cause for me: I try to do it on my own. While the goal seems simple and easily achievable, I often fail to recognize my own limitations. It is only after honest appraisal that I recognize my need for God's assistance. For it is through Him that I can do all things (Phil 4:13).
Would it not be easier if we recognized this need before we set out on a new quest? Yes, but I often feel that I can do it "on my own". It is only after failure and assessment that I recognize my continual need for His strength and grace. Hopefully, we can become wiser and recognize our need of God's presence in all that we do!
April 29, 2011
Safe and Sound
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
Proverbs 29:25
People spend millions of dollars each year in search of security. It is assumed that the stronger your defenses, the more peace and security you will have. You may achieve security against the threats of the world but money can not buy peace of mind. For no matter how strong the defenses, it does nothing for the worry and fear in your mind. You can be the most protected individual and still know fear. The absolute opposite is the slumbering baby - safe and sound. Is it because of high tech defenses? No, it comes from peace of mind.
There is only One who can give peace of mind: 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. (John 14:27) Take note of the last half of Jesus's promise - no fear, no worries. He is the only source of such peace and it is only available for the asking. Simple submission ensures comfort and peace. For through Him, you can sleep safe and sound like a baby. For you, too, will know no fear.
Proverbs 29:25
People spend millions of dollars each year in search of security. It is assumed that the stronger your defenses, the more peace and security you will have. You may achieve security against the threats of the world but money can not buy peace of mind. For no matter how strong the defenses, it does nothing for the worry and fear in your mind. You can be the most protected individual and still know fear. The absolute opposite is the slumbering baby - safe and sound. Is it because of high tech defenses? No, it comes from peace of mind.
There is only One who can give peace of mind: 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. (John 14:27) Take note of the last half of Jesus's promise - no fear, no worries. He is the only source of such peace and it is only available for the asking. Simple submission ensures comfort and peace. For through Him, you can sleep safe and sound like a baby. For you, too, will know no fear.
April 28, 2011
In A Hurry To Failure
He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.
Proverbs 28:22
We have all seen people consumed with the objective to become rich. They allow nothing or no one to stand in their way - they will do whatever is necessary to go over, around or through any obstacle in their path to riches. They are so focused on the single aspect of riches that they fail to see the big picture. They don't see how their addiction to riches is ruining their morals, family life and reputation. Nothing matters except money and everything is left damaged in its wake.
Solomon has a pretty stern warning to those in the verse above - poverty shall come. Not that it may come but it will come. While some may tout that there are such people who are still rich, I would counter how poor they are in peace, strong family ties and reputation. The monetary net worth of an individual is not the only thing that is measured. Jesus warned us of the same situation in Matthew 16:26: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Truly, there is more to life than money.
While it is easy to identify those who are obsessed with money, there are many other obsessions in this world: sex, fame, political power, etc. Is there something that you are obsessed with today? Are you in a hurry to failure? If so, let God become your obsession - the final outcome will be Eternal Life. Not a bad reward and it lasts longer than money!
Proverbs 28:22
We have all seen people consumed with the objective to become rich. They allow nothing or no one to stand in their way - they will do whatever is necessary to go over, around or through any obstacle in their path to riches. They are so focused on the single aspect of riches that they fail to see the big picture. They don't see how their addiction to riches is ruining their morals, family life and reputation. Nothing matters except money and everything is left damaged in its wake.
Solomon has a pretty stern warning to those in the verse above - poverty shall come. Not that it may come but it will come. While some may tout that there are such people who are still rich, I would counter how poor they are in peace, strong family ties and reputation. The monetary net worth of an individual is not the only thing that is measured. Jesus warned us of the same situation in Matthew 16:26: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Truly, there is more to life than money.
While it is easy to identify those who are obsessed with money, there are many other obsessions in this world: sex, fame, political power, etc. Is there something that you are obsessed with today? Are you in a hurry to failure? If so, let God become your obsession - the final outcome will be Eternal Life. Not a bad reward and it lasts longer than money!
April 27, 2011
Gracious Appreciation
The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
Proverbs 27:7
There is nothing more difficult than buying a present for someone that has everything! No matter how creative I may be, it doesn't seem adequate. Likewise, it is difficult for children with everything to be gracious when receiving gifts - if it isn't the latest fashion or rage, they just don't seem to care or appreciate the gift. On the other hand, it is easy to buy gifts for the less fortunate and you can be assured they will demonstrate gracious appreciation when receiving the gift!
Do we not act the same way towards God at times? He has given us the ultimate gift and yet we act like spoiled children when we don't receive our latest wish. I am ashamed to admit that I often take the life of His son for granted. If I fully appreciated the value of His sacrifice, would I be worried with many of the items I place at His feet for solving? For they pale in comparison to what He has already given! I encourage you to join me in stopping for a moment and thinking of the sacrifice on the cross. There was only One who could save him from the pain - His father. And He chose not to - for you and I.
Proverbs 27:7
There is nothing more difficult than buying a present for someone that has everything! No matter how creative I may be, it doesn't seem adequate. Likewise, it is difficult for children with everything to be gracious when receiving gifts - if it isn't the latest fashion or rage, they just don't seem to care or appreciate the gift. On the other hand, it is easy to buy gifts for the less fortunate and you can be assured they will demonstrate gracious appreciation when receiving the gift!
Do we not act the same way towards God at times? He has given us the ultimate gift and yet we act like spoiled children when we don't receive our latest wish. I am ashamed to admit that I often take the life of His son for granted. If I fully appreciated the value of His sacrifice, would I be worried with many of the items I place at His feet for solving? For they pale in comparison to what He has already given! I encourage you to join me in stopping for a moment and thinking of the sacrifice on the cross. There was only One who could save him from the pain - His father. And He chose not to - for you and I.
April 26, 2011
Stomach Relief
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
Proverbs 26:22
I am amazed at the advances in medicine. When we were children, there were very few choices for stomach discomfort and many made you feel worse than the stomach pain! Today, there are multiple choices for relief of the burning sensation of our stomachs. Some even last twenty four hours! How amazing is that?
Unfortunately, there is one stomach discomfort that modern medicine has failed to conquer - the nagging, gnawing pain caused by worry. While the old rhyme states that words can't hurt, they do. When we hear those cutting words spoken, they tend to sink to the pit of our stomach and keep us awake at night. The words do not fade away and neither do the pain caused by them. Solomon so aptly described them above - they don't bounce off and are soon forgotten. Rather, they linger and cause us continual grief. Tossing and turning at night, we re-live the cruel words spoken to us.
Fortunately, there is a remedy. And it is not of modern medicine but ancient teachings. Perhaps, the one man who caused more tongues to wag in his time gives us great advice: I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety. (Psalms 4:8) David made poor choices much like the rest of us and they were broadcast throughout the land. And yet, David highlights the three most elusive items to someone that is suffering the pain of cruel words: peace, sleep and safety. How often have we longed for such blessings!
And the chronicles of David show us how. By recognizing our failures, admitting them to God and seeking His forgiveness, we too can have peace! So the next time the stomach churns, get on your knees instead of reaching for the medication. For truly God can give what no pill can: peace with any situation.
Proverbs 26:22
I am amazed at the advances in medicine. When we were children, there were very few choices for stomach discomfort and many made you feel worse than the stomach pain! Today, there are multiple choices for relief of the burning sensation of our stomachs. Some even last twenty four hours! How amazing is that?
Unfortunately, there is one stomach discomfort that modern medicine has failed to conquer - the nagging, gnawing pain caused by worry. While the old rhyme states that words can't hurt, they do. When we hear those cutting words spoken, they tend to sink to the pit of our stomach and keep us awake at night. The words do not fade away and neither do the pain caused by them. Solomon so aptly described them above - they don't bounce off and are soon forgotten. Rather, they linger and cause us continual grief. Tossing and turning at night, we re-live the cruel words spoken to us.
Fortunately, there is a remedy. And it is not of modern medicine but ancient teachings. Perhaps, the one man who caused more tongues to wag in his time gives us great advice: I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety. (Psalms 4:8) David made poor choices much like the rest of us and they were broadcast throughout the land. And yet, David highlights the three most elusive items to someone that is suffering the pain of cruel words: peace, sleep and safety. How often have we longed for such blessings!
And the chronicles of David show us how. By recognizing our failures, admitting them to God and seeking His forgiveness, we too can have peace! So the next time the stomach churns, get on your knees instead of reaching for the medication. For truly God can give what no pill can: peace with any situation.
April 25, 2011
Proper Pecking Order
For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.
Proverbs 25:7
My Dad always reminded me to ensure that I stayed in the "proper pecking order" and did not try to get ahead of myself. As a young ambitious man, I was sure that I was going to conquer the world and nothing could get in my way. He continued to remind me that I was still just a country boy with very little experience. He encouraged me to do my best but allow others to recognize my abilities and elevate me vice myself. It has been good advice over the years but only recently did I realize that he, too, had read proverbs!
It is so embarrassing for people to think more highly of themselves than others do. It is extremely embarrassing when you find this out in a public situation! And Solomon warned against it in the verse above. While I assume he could have said "Don't let pride get the best of you", it would not have had the same impact. For we can all relate to the example provided above - we have seen it in real life and recognize the humiliation associated with the event.
It serves as a constant reminder for us not to get out of pecking order - for someone will surely put us in our spot!
Proverbs 25:7
My Dad always reminded me to ensure that I stayed in the "proper pecking order" and did not try to get ahead of myself. As a young ambitious man, I was sure that I was going to conquer the world and nothing could get in my way. He continued to remind me that I was still just a country boy with very little experience. He encouraged me to do my best but allow others to recognize my abilities and elevate me vice myself. It has been good advice over the years but only recently did I realize that he, too, had read proverbs!
It is so embarrassing for people to think more highly of themselves than others do. It is extremely embarrassing when you find this out in a public situation! And Solomon warned against it in the verse above. While I assume he could have said "Don't let pride get the best of you", it would not have had the same impact. For we can all relate to the example provided above - we have seen it in real life and recognize the humiliation associated with the event.
It serves as a constant reminder for us not to get out of pecking order - for someone will surely put us in our spot!
April 24, 2011
Misplaced Fear
Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked
Proverbs 24:19
As children, we often worried about the school bully. Unfortunately, I was not familiar with Solomon's verse at that time! I would warily check the playground to try and locate the bully so that I could peacefully play at the opposite end. Such peace was usually short term since the bully made his daily rounds invoking fear in the rest of the kids on the playground.
Many of us continue to drag that fear with us through adult life as well. We are fearful of what others may say or do to us. However, such fear is misplaced. Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:28 - And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
What a concept! We tend to place fear in the wrong place! If we want to fear, place it in the proper perspective and fear only the One who has control over our eternal life.
Proverbs 24:19
As children, we often worried about the school bully. Unfortunately, I was not familiar with Solomon's verse at that time! I would warily check the playground to try and locate the bully so that I could peacefully play at the opposite end. Such peace was usually short term since the bully made his daily rounds invoking fear in the rest of the kids on the playground.
Many of us continue to drag that fear with us through adult life as well. We are fearful of what others may say or do to us. However, such fear is misplaced. Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:28 - And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
What a concept! We tend to place fear in the wrong place! If we want to fear, place it in the proper perspective and fear only the One who has control over our eternal life.
April 23, 2011
Distasteful Choices
They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.
Proverbs 23:35
My heart often breaks when I see people that repeatedly make bad choices. I often wonder why they can not see the error of their ways. Do they not learn from their previous lessons learned? Must they make the same mistake twice? It seems as if the make the same choice hoping for a different outcome. Solomon describes the same situation above regarding the alcoholic.
I have often struggled with how to deal with such an individual. While their choices continue to be wrong and the results continue to be devestating, they sometimes make honest promises to do better. Unfortunately, the promises don't last and they are once again at the wrong end of a poor decision. Should I just write them off? Give up hope and throw in the towel? Quite trying to support and encourage them? It sometimes seems like the best choice with the least amount of frustration!
Fortunately, God never gave up on us. No matter how far we strayed in sin, he still loved us. He did not love our actions, but he loved us enough to send his Son to the cross for our sins. Even when I promise to do better and fail to follow through, God loves me but not my actions.
Perhaps we should follow his example and love the individual and not their actions. God did it for us - shouldn't do it for others?
Proverbs 23:35
My heart often breaks when I see people that repeatedly make bad choices. I often wonder why they can not see the error of their ways. Do they not learn from their previous lessons learned? Must they make the same mistake twice? It seems as if the make the same choice hoping for a different outcome. Solomon describes the same situation above regarding the alcoholic.
I have often struggled with how to deal with such an individual. While their choices continue to be wrong and the results continue to be devestating, they sometimes make honest promises to do better. Unfortunately, the promises don't last and they are once again at the wrong end of a poor decision. Should I just write them off? Give up hope and throw in the towel? Quite trying to support and encourage them? It sometimes seems like the best choice with the least amount of frustration!
Fortunately, God never gave up on us. No matter how far we strayed in sin, he still loved us. He did not love our actions, but he loved us enough to send his Son to the cross for our sins. Even when I promise to do better and fail to follow through, God loves me but not my actions.
Perhaps we should follow his example and love the individual and not their actions. God did it for us - shouldn't do it for others?
April 20, 2011
Buzzard Breath
Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.
Proverbs 20:17
It was not until marriage that I realized that my wife's breath was not minty fresh when we awoke each morning! In fact, my morning breath has been called buzzard breath (while I have never kissed a buzzard!). For those who are analytical, you are quick to say "How could you have been so naive? Your breath is rough in the morning, shouldn't everyone else's breath be the same?" I would happily answer - NOPE!
For you see, while we were dating, I never imagined anything negative about my wife. It was only when the reality of marriage forced me to acknowledge what everyone else knows did I make the startling discovery! Was it because I was blind in love? Chose not to accept reality? Yes, both are correct.
But does this differ from our willingness to be led astray from God's teachings? No - for if we thought it through, we would know it is wrong. However, during the blindness, we can't see the reality. It is only after that we get the mouth full of gravel!
There is only one source that can open our eyes to the true nastiness of temptation - the same who opened the blind mans eyes in the New Testament! When we are in constant communication with our Savior, we are no longer deceived by the world's temptations. As such, we will no longer be surprised by buzzard's breath!
Proverbs 20:17
It was not until marriage that I realized that my wife's breath was not minty fresh when we awoke each morning! In fact, my morning breath has been called buzzard breath (while I have never kissed a buzzard!). For those who are analytical, you are quick to say "How could you have been so naive? Your breath is rough in the morning, shouldn't everyone else's breath be the same?" I would happily answer - NOPE!
For you see, while we were dating, I never imagined anything negative about my wife. It was only when the reality of marriage forced me to acknowledge what everyone else knows did I make the startling discovery! Was it because I was blind in love? Chose not to accept reality? Yes, both are correct.
But does this differ from our willingness to be led astray from God's teachings? No - for if we thought it through, we would know it is wrong. However, during the blindness, we can't see the reality. It is only after that we get the mouth full of gravel!
There is only one source that can open our eyes to the true nastiness of temptation - the same who opened the blind mans eyes in the New Testament! When we are in constant communication with our Savior, we are no longer deceived by the world's temptations. As such, we will no longer be surprised by buzzard's breath!
