B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 73
April 19, 2011
Honesty Matters
The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.
Proverbs 19:22
We often pity the poor. However, Solomon ranks the penniless above one who lies. Do we feel the same pity for the liar? Or do we try to justify his actions as simply "stretching the truth" or telling a "little white lie"? Such descriptions are not quite so grotesque as "liar". Negative images are not conjured for the one "who was trying to protect some one's feelings" but they certainly are gruesome for the filthy liar.
Why do we go to such great lengths to defend the liar but not for the poor? Perhaps, it is because we can relate with the liar better than we can the destitute? We have been there and we know how dirty we feel after the first lie. And we know how easy it is to justify the following lies that cover the original lie. As we lie, we become more proficient and less susceptible to the guilt associated with such sin.
I understand that we may not have ever had to go without dinner or new clothes, but we have all skirted the truth. But as Christians, we also know the relief felt when we confess our sins to our Savior. So instead of justifying their actions, shouldn't we share with them the joy of confessing and leaving the sinful nature behind?
So let's exhort our poor friends in their service to God and invite our liars to join us in forgiveness. For truly, honesty matters!
Proverbs 19:22
We often pity the poor. However, Solomon ranks the penniless above one who lies. Do we feel the same pity for the liar? Or do we try to justify his actions as simply "stretching the truth" or telling a "little white lie"? Such descriptions are not quite so grotesque as "liar". Negative images are not conjured for the one "who was trying to protect some one's feelings" but they certainly are gruesome for the filthy liar.
Why do we go to such great lengths to defend the liar but not for the poor? Perhaps, it is because we can relate with the liar better than we can the destitute? We have been there and we know how dirty we feel after the first lie. And we know how easy it is to justify the following lies that cover the original lie. As we lie, we become more proficient and less susceptible to the guilt associated with such sin.
I understand that we may not have ever had to go without dinner or new clothes, but we have all skirted the truth. But as Christians, we also know the relief felt when we confess our sins to our Savior. So instead of justifying their actions, shouldn't we share with them the joy of confessing and leaving the sinful nature behind?
So let's exhort our poor friends in their service to God and invite our liars to join us in forgiveness. For truly, honesty matters!
April 18, 2011
Humble Service
Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 18:12
Too often, we get ahead of ourselves. We recognize that we have done something well and deserve recognition for our efforts. So our chest swells with pride and we quickly become haughty towards others for we know what they don't - that we are concealing un-recognized honor that will soon be bursting forth. Unfortunately, what usually burst forth is embarrassment vice honor. We too often place emphasis on the wrong merits and God is not pleased. As such, we are destroyed with humiliation vice raised in honor. And most importantly, God knows our heart and the attitude in which we performed the wonderful act!
Often, it is the quiet one, without a bone of pride in his body, that is recognized for his contribution. Not because he wanted recognition but because he deserved it. Recognition was not the motivator of his actions. Rather, serving God in the most humble of tasks was his true motivation.
So the next time, you feel that you have been ignored and not recognized for your noble deeds - stop and examine yourself. What was your motivation: recognition or service to God? God already knows the answer. Perhaps, we would be humbled if we knew the answer too.
Proverbs 18:12
Too often, we get ahead of ourselves. We recognize that we have done something well and deserve recognition for our efforts. So our chest swells with pride and we quickly become haughty towards others for we know what they don't - that we are concealing un-recognized honor that will soon be bursting forth. Unfortunately, what usually burst forth is embarrassment vice honor. We too often place emphasis on the wrong merits and God is not pleased. As such, we are destroyed with humiliation vice raised in honor. And most importantly, God knows our heart and the attitude in which we performed the wonderful act!
Often, it is the quiet one, without a bone of pride in his body, that is recognized for his contribution. Not because he wanted recognition but because he deserved it. Recognition was not the motivator of his actions. Rather, serving God in the most humble of tasks was his true motivation.
So the next time, you feel that you have been ignored and not recognized for your noble deeds - stop and examine yourself. What was your motivation: recognition or service to God? God already knows the answer. Perhaps, we would be humbled if we knew the answer too.
April 17, 2011
Only By God's Grace
Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.
Proverbs 17:5
As a teenager, I learned a valuable lesson from my Vocational Agriculture Teacher, Mr. Dick. Several boys were making fun of another student that was mentally challenged. Mr. Dick pulled all of the students into his classroom and lectured us strongly about treating others fairly. His closing statement has stuck with me ever since - "But for the grace of God, there goes you".
And Solomon's verse drives the point home even harder. When we mock others, we are mocking our Creator. Who are we to laugh at God's creation? We don't understand His motive or purpose. And He made us as well. Which shows that we could have the same "quirks" as the ones we are mocking.
Solomon goes even further to caution us against enjoying other's calamities unless we, too , want to be punished. To often, I have heard "It serves them right" or "They had it coming". Don't we also? We are all sinners, saved by grace. We are no better than anyone in appearance or behavior. We may have been blessed to receive God's grace, but we were not worthy!
The next time you are tempted to mock or judge others, remember that God could have place you in their situation! Instead of mocking or judging, try thanking God that he spared you from the same experience.
Proverbs 17:5
As a teenager, I learned a valuable lesson from my Vocational Agriculture Teacher, Mr. Dick. Several boys were making fun of another student that was mentally challenged. Mr. Dick pulled all of the students into his classroom and lectured us strongly about treating others fairly. His closing statement has stuck with me ever since - "But for the grace of God, there goes you".
And Solomon's verse drives the point home even harder. When we mock others, we are mocking our Creator. Who are we to laugh at God's creation? We don't understand His motive or purpose. And He made us as well. Which shows that we could have the same "quirks" as the ones we are mocking.
Solomon goes even further to caution us against enjoying other's calamities unless we, too , want to be punished. To often, I have heard "It serves them right" or "They had it coming". Don't we also? We are all sinners, saved by grace. We are no better than anyone in appearance or behavior. We may have been blessed to receive God's grace, but we were not worthy!
The next time you are tempted to mock or judge others, remember that God could have place you in their situation! Instead of mocking or judging, try thanking God that he spared you from the same experience.
April 14, 2011
Birds of the Feather
He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.
Proverbs 14:17
There are some people I just don't enjoy being around. While I am normally a patient man, there are some behaviors that I just don't tolerate. Coincidentally, Solomon put both of them in the same verse. Perhaps, birds of the feather, stick together! Clearly, the two behaviors listed above, short-fused anger and wicked behavior, are not something you would list on your resume. No one enjoys being around someone that unexpectedly explodes over the simplest of issues or someone that is always scheming against others. They are not pleasant and not someone we normally want to confide in.
If we abhor such behavior, how much more so does God. For not only does he see the outward manifestation, but He sees the heart as well. Luckily, people's hearts aren't transparent or we might be shocked by what we see!
We are sometimes judged by others by whom we associate. The old saying of "birds of the feather" has merit. How are those who hang out with us judged based upon our behavior? Do we bring them up or bring them down? Not only should we be uplifting their image, but more importantly we should be uplifting them spiritually. Have you carefully considered what type of friend you are?
Let God strengthen your behavior. Not only for your benefit but for the rest of the flock you associate with!
Proverbs 14:17
There are some people I just don't enjoy being around. While I am normally a patient man, there are some behaviors that I just don't tolerate. Coincidentally, Solomon put both of them in the same verse. Perhaps, birds of the feather, stick together! Clearly, the two behaviors listed above, short-fused anger and wicked behavior, are not something you would list on your resume. No one enjoys being around someone that unexpectedly explodes over the simplest of issues or someone that is always scheming against others. They are not pleasant and not someone we normally want to confide in.
If we abhor such behavior, how much more so does God. For not only does he see the outward manifestation, but He sees the heart as well. Luckily, people's hearts aren't transparent or we might be shocked by what we see!
We are sometimes judged by others by whom we associate. The old saying of "birds of the feather" has merit. How are those who hang out with us judged based upon our behavior? Do we bring them up or bring them down? Not only should we be uplifting their image, but more importantly we should be uplifting them spiritually. Have you carefully considered what type of friend you are?
Let God strengthen your behavior. Not only for your benefit but for the rest of the flock you associate with!
April 13, 2011
The Rod of Correction
He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Proverbs 13:24
Solomon repeatedly refers to using the rod of correction in raising children. In fact, in Proverbs 22:15
Solomon states - Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him,. Clearly, Solomon believed that punishment was a suitable remedy to disobedience. And as a father, I have justified my corrective actions based upon many of his and Pual's verses regarding children.
However, when the roles are reversed, we hesitate to embrace such a correctional system. While we are Children of God, we don't relish being treated as children. When we do wrong, we feel that we can justify our actions so that no punishment is required. When we pass by the needy and ignore their situation, shouldn't there be repurcussions for our behavior? When we partake of the sins of the world, are we not guilty? Yet, we do not welcome the rod of correction to drive such behavior from us. We prefer a merciful God that only bestows blessing upon us.
Houwever, will it not be a blessing when we meet others in heaven that we have help along our way? And how are we to recognize the proper behavior unless the "foolishness is driven from us"? In our times of correction, let's be thankful that God loves us enough to correct our behavior. While it may not be pleasant, it will improve us as Christians if we receive His guidance.with an understanding and respectful heart.
Proverbs 13:24
Solomon repeatedly refers to using the rod of correction in raising children. In fact, in Proverbs 22:15
Solomon states - Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him,. Clearly, Solomon believed that punishment was a suitable remedy to disobedience. And as a father, I have justified my corrective actions based upon many of his and Pual's verses regarding children.
However, when the roles are reversed, we hesitate to embrace such a correctional system. While we are Children of God, we don't relish being treated as children. When we do wrong, we feel that we can justify our actions so that no punishment is required. When we pass by the needy and ignore their situation, shouldn't there be repurcussions for our behavior? When we partake of the sins of the world, are we not guilty? Yet, we do not welcome the rod of correction to drive such behavior from us. We prefer a merciful God that only bestows blessing upon us.
Houwever, will it not be a blessing when we meet others in heaven that we have help along our way? And how are we to recognize the proper behavior unless the "foolishness is driven from us"? In our times of correction, let's be thankful that God loves us enough to correct our behavior. While it may not be pleasant, it will improve us as Christians if we receive His guidance.with an understanding and respectful heart.
April 12, 2011
A Love - Hate Relationship
Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.
Proverbs 12:1
We often think of love-hate relationships as a contradictory situation. However, Solomon lists a clear demarcation between two opposite emotions. Likewise, he highlights the results of such relationships - knowledgeable or brutish. As we start our day, which side of the fence do we choose?
We are in control of our emotions and our behavior reflects our emotions. How do we accept correction from others? Are we defensive, aloof and snooty or are we appreciative, reflective and humble? If we truly love instruction, we will show our appreciation to those who instruct us - even those we personally dislike!
While we all enjoy being viewed as knowledgeable, we are too often too lazy to put forth the effort to gain wisdom and knowledge by being corrected by others with an humble heart. It is too easy to blow off the comment and continue on our merry way with a flippant response. Which results in us being label as brutes.
Join me in resolving to be visibly appreciative of correction. It is a process that we often love to hate since we think we are perfect as we are! There was only One without sin who walked on earth - and we know it wasn't either of us! However, we draw closer to perfection when we gain knowledge via a humble spirit.
Proverbs 12:1
We often think of love-hate relationships as a contradictory situation. However, Solomon lists a clear demarcation between two opposite emotions. Likewise, he highlights the results of such relationships - knowledgeable or brutish. As we start our day, which side of the fence do we choose?
We are in control of our emotions and our behavior reflects our emotions. How do we accept correction from others? Are we defensive, aloof and snooty or are we appreciative, reflective and humble? If we truly love instruction, we will show our appreciation to those who instruct us - even those we personally dislike!
While we all enjoy being viewed as knowledgeable, we are too often too lazy to put forth the effort to gain wisdom and knowledge by being corrected by others with an humble heart. It is too easy to blow off the comment and continue on our merry way with a flippant response. Which results in us being label as brutes.
Join me in resolving to be visibly appreciative of correction. It is a process that we often love to hate since we think we are perfect as we are! There was only One without sin who walked on earth - and we know it wasn't either of us! However, we draw closer to perfection when we gain knowledge via a humble spirit.
April 11, 2011
Soul Food
The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.
Proverbs 11:17
We are bombarded daily with advertisements for heart-healthy foods. The commercials tout the improvements in health and reduced risk of heart attack simply by consuming their wonderful food or supplements. I often wonder what ever happened to all of the old food that was so "bad" for you? Did they stop making it? No, it is still on the shelves of our grocery store - it is just packaged and marketed differently. Take chocolate, for example, - who knew it could be so bad for you as a kid, now only to hear that it is actually good for you!
Perhaps, we should market soul food in the same manner. Not the soul food that I thoroughly enjoy eating on the road during my weekly travels, but the food that is good for your soul. Solomon highlights one of the key ingredients above - mercy. What a small, potent food for our soul! Whenever we have mercy on another, our own soul can't help but smile! For in doing so, we are emulating the One who had mercy on us.
Yes, mercy is a key ingredient to a healthy soul. I often wonder if we marketed such key ingredients like the other food that we eat? Would the markets consume the commidity in large quantities?
What does your diet consist of? Is your soul becoming healthier? Or do the daily binges on hatred, envy and deceit cause it to wither away? Perhaps, you should go on a diet and wean yourself of the nasty eating habits of the world? The One who had mercy on us can give you the best ingredients for a healthy heart!
Proverbs 11:17
We are bombarded daily with advertisements for heart-healthy foods. The commercials tout the improvements in health and reduced risk of heart attack simply by consuming their wonderful food or supplements. I often wonder what ever happened to all of the old food that was so "bad" for you? Did they stop making it? No, it is still on the shelves of our grocery store - it is just packaged and marketed differently. Take chocolate, for example, - who knew it could be so bad for you as a kid, now only to hear that it is actually good for you!
Perhaps, we should market soul food in the same manner. Not the soul food that I thoroughly enjoy eating on the road during my weekly travels, but the food that is good for your soul. Solomon highlights one of the key ingredients above - mercy. What a small, potent food for our soul! Whenever we have mercy on another, our own soul can't help but smile! For in doing so, we are emulating the One who had mercy on us.
Yes, mercy is a key ingredient to a healthy soul. I often wonder if we marketed such key ingredients like the other food that we eat? Would the markets consume the commidity in large quantities?
What does your diet consist of? Is your soul becoming healthier? Or do the daily binges on hatred, envy and deceit cause it to wither away? Perhaps, you should go on a diet and wean yourself of the nasty eating habits of the world? The One who had mercy on us can give you the best ingredients for a healthy heart!
April 10, 2011
Misplaced Trust
The wealth of the rich is their fortified city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor.
Proverbs 10:15
Too often, we place our trust in the wrong places - people, government, riches or physical capabilities. Unfortunately, each of these will let us down and leave us feeling dejected. Solomon addresses placing our trust in our own wealth. The rich sometime rely on wealth as protection against the world.
David provided some great advice in Psalm 52:6-7: The righteous also shall see, and fear, and shall laugh at him: Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness. Sadly, the rich become the laughing stock of the wise when they misplace their trust in their riches. They fail to realize that the riches are not truly theirs and that they will only last a short period in comparison to eternity. And not a single penny will aid you in getting to heaven!
Paul further expounds upon the foolish trust of the wealthy in 1 Timothy 6:17: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; Ahh, the truth! Our riches are given to us by God but not that we should trust them but trust Him!
Where is your trust placed today? Who will save you in the end? There is only one right answer. The One who gave His life for us.
Proverbs 10:15
Too often, we place our trust in the wrong places - people, government, riches or physical capabilities. Unfortunately, each of these will let us down and leave us feeling dejected. Solomon addresses placing our trust in our own wealth. The rich sometime rely on wealth as protection against the world.
David provided some great advice in Psalm 52:6-7: The righteous also shall see, and fear, and shall laugh at him: Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness. Sadly, the rich become the laughing stock of the wise when they misplace their trust in their riches. They fail to realize that the riches are not truly theirs and that they will only last a short period in comparison to eternity. And not a single penny will aid you in getting to heaven!
Paul further expounds upon the foolish trust of the wealthy in 1 Timothy 6:17: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; Ahh, the truth! Our riches are given to us by God but not that we should trust them but trust Him!
Where is your trust placed today? Who will save you in the end? There is only one right answer. The One who gave His life for us.
April 9, 2011
Foolish Advice
Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.
Proverbs 9:16-17
Solomon devotes this chapter to the comparison of seeking wisdom versus chasing after worldly attractions. In the versus above, he highlights "worldly" advice - stealing, secrecy and lust. Yet to the foolish chasing the world, it makes sense.
Sadly, we have the same type of advice in today's world: its all about me, money and possessions are everything, looks are most important and instant gratification. They all appear founded in tradition and "everyone" is doing it. But is it wise? Not if God is not involved.
Do you seek advice from the right source? It is simple to ensure you are heeding the proper advice - does it glorify God or you? We try to make our decisions difficult rather than simplifying them. We can use multiple explanations why we should heed, but does the Spirit of God encourage you to do so? Otherwise, it is just foolish advice.
Proverbs 9:16-17
Solomon devotes this chapter to the comparison of seeking wisdom versus chasing after worldly attractions. In the versus above, he highlights "worldly" advice - stealing, secrecy and lust. Yet to the foolish chasing the world, it makes sense.
Sadly, we have the same type of advice in today's world: its all about me, money and possessions are everything, looks are most important and instant gratification. They all appear founded in tradition and "everyone" is doing it. But is it wise? Not if God is not involved.
Do you seek advice from the right source? It is simple to ensure you are heeding the proper advice - does it glorify God or you? We try to make our decisions difficult rather than simplifying them. We can use multiple explanations why we should heed, but does the Spirit of God encourage you to do so? Otherwise, it is just foolish advice.
April 8, 2011
Wisdom For Dummies
O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.
Proverbs 8:5
I used to think Solomon was talking of oxymoron - simple who are wise and fools with understanding. Surely, he got his terminology mixed up, right? No, he was simply preceding our Saviour's discussion that wisdom and understanding is not contingent upon a formal education. Rather, it is gained through the heart vice the brain. Confusing? Let's let Jesus explain.
Jesus explains in Matthew 13:14-15, "And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." And in John 6:63, Jesus states "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."
The condition of the heart is the heart of the matter! Unless our heart is submissive, we profit nothing by hearing His word. However, if our heart is made right with God, he describes the benefits of seeing, hearing and understanding with your heart. And these words are the spirit and life to those who heed.
Nowhere did Jesus predicate the requirement of being educated or talented. The only pre-requisite He lists is the condition of the heart. Even dummies can be wise if their heart is right with God!
Is your heart ready to receive His words today? When He speaks, will you hear? If not, prepare your heart to become educated in wisdom!
Proverbs 8:5
I used to think Solomon was talking of oxymoron - simple who are wise and fools with understanding. Surely, he got his terminology mixed up, right? No, he was simply preceding our Saviour's discussion that wisdom and understanding is not contingent upon a formal education. Rather, it is gained through the heart vice the brain. Confusing? Let's let Jesus explain.
Jesus explains in Matthew 13:14-15, "And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." And in John 6:63, Jesus states "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."
The condition of the heart is the heart of the matter! Unless our heart is submissive, we profit nothing by hearing His word. However, if our heart is made right with God, he describes the benefits of seeing, hearing and understanding with your heart. And these words are the spirit and life to those who heed.
Nowhere did Jesus predicate the requirement of being educated or talented. The only pre-requisite He lists is the condition of the heart. Even dummies can be wise if their heart is right with God!
Is your heart ready to receive His words today? When He speaks, will you hear? If not, prepare your heart to become educated in wisdom!
