B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 77
March 8, 2011
Just Like Medicine
Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.
Proverbs 8:34
I despise having to take vitamins and supplements. It is not their effect on my body, it is just the regimen that I must follow every day to ensure that I don't forget to take the vitamins! Fortunately, I am not like others whose health relies upon them taking medication day in and day out. Without their daily dose, many people would not be able to function normally.
In chapter eight, Solomon describes wisdom and knowledge. In the verse above, wisdom commends the man that seeks and hears daily. Seeking God isn't a Sunday-only event. We need to seek His guidance daily. And just as important, we need to hear when He speaks. I can't begin to imagine how much better my life would be if I sought His guidance daily and actually listened to what He had to say! Too often, I am in a rush to get my day started that I forget the most important part - seeking God. And if I do seek Him, I tend to not pay attention if His words don't match my preconceived notions of how I am to go about my day. And the results are always predictable - a disaster until I yield to His will.
Perhaps we should view our daily time with God as preventative medicine. If we partake of His words, we will prevent unnecessary pain!
Proverbs 8:34
I despise having to take vitamins and supplements. It is not their effect on my body, it is just the regimen that I must follow every day to ensure that I don't forget to take the vitamins! Fortunately, I am not like others whose health relies upon them taking medication day in and day out. Without their daily dose, many people would not be able to function normally.
In chapter eight, Solomon describes wisdom and knowledge. In the verse above, wisdom commends the man that seeks and hears daily. Seeking God isn't a Sunday-only event. We need to seek His guidance daily. And just as important, we need to hear when He speaks. I can't begin to imagine how much better my life would be if I sought His guidance daily and actually listened to what He had to say! Too often, I am in a rush to get my day started that I forget the most important part - seeking God. And if I do seek Him, I tend to not pay attention if His words don't match my preconceived notions of how I am to go about my day. And the results are always predictable - a disaster until I yield to His will.
Perhaps we should view our daily time with God as preventative medicine. If we partake of His words, we will prevent unnecessary pain!
March 7, 2011
Trouble Around Every Corner
Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)
Proverbs 7:12
We often feel that we know where temptation lurks. And if we stay away from such awful places, we will not be tempted. In Solomon's description above, he captures the essence that temptation doesn't wait for us to come to it, but rather seeks us out.
While we know of places that a Christian shouldn't go, it doesn't protect us from temptation. It comes in the form of the television, Internet, daily conversation and many more mediums that we don't have the ability to completely remove from our lives. At times, it may seem hopeless and that we will never be free from temptation - even Jesus was tempted. But we can follow his example and resist the temptations, even during prayer.
Paul gives us great advice in Ephesians 6:10-12 - Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
While we may not be able to avoid temptation, we have the power through Christ to resist temptation no matter where we encounter it!
Proverbs 7:12
We often feel that we know where temptation lurks. And if we stay away from such awful places, we will not be tempted. In Solomon's description above, he captures the essence that temptation doesn't wait for us to come to it, but rather seeks us out.
While we know of places that a Christian shouldn't go, it doesn't protect us from temptation. It comes in the form of the television, Internet, daily conversation and many more mediums that we don't have the ability to completely remove from our lives. At times, it may seem hopeless and that we will never be free from temptation - even Jesus was tempted. But we can follow his example and resist the temptations, even during prayer.
Paul gives us great advice in Ephesians 6:10-12 - Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
While we may not be able to avoid temptation, we have the power through Christ to resist temptation no matter where we encounter it!
March 6, 2011
A Murderous Tongue
A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
Proverbs 6:17
I find it intriguing that when Solomon lists the seven abominations of the Lord, the lying tongue is perched next to the murderer. While we often perceive the harm done by each are at opposite ends of the spectrum, a little closer look may cause us to re-think our position.
A murderer takes away the life of an innocent individual ruining his family and friends for life. They will never have the opportunity to share with the victim again. They are only left with memories and a question of why it happened to the one they loved. The pain and suffering for such a single act is almost beyond comprehension.
Isn't the same true for many "innocent" lies? They harm individuals who have done nothing wrong and impact their friends and loved ones. While it may not take their life, it will sometimes affect them and their friends for the rest of their life. Again, the pain and suffering is sometimes beyond comprehension.
While we don't always walk around with a weapon capable of murder, we always have the tongue and its lethal capabilities. Unfortunately, we often fail to recognize that we are walking around with a cocked and loaded "weapon" that can wreak disaster on others. I encourage you to ask God for awareness of the capabilities of your tongue. May you always use it for His endorsement vice the lethal options that are readily available.
Proverbs 6:17
I find it intriguing that when Solomon lists the seven abominations of the Lord, the lying tongue is perched next to the murderer. While we often perceive the harm done by each are at opposite ends of the spectrum, a little closer look may cause us to re-think our position.
A murderer takes away the life of an innocent individual ruining his family and friends for life. They will never have the opportunity to share with the victim again. They are only left with memories and a question of why it happened to the one they loved. The pain and suffering for such a single act is almost beyond comprehension.
Isn't the same true for many "innocent" lies? They harm individuals who have done nothing wrong and impact their friends and loved ones. While it may not take their life, it will sometimes affect them and their friends for the rest of their life. Again, the pain and suffering is sometimes beyond comprehension.
While we don't always walk around with a weapon capable of murder, we always have the tongue and its lethal capabilities. Unfortunately, we often fail to recognize that we are walking around with a cocked and loaded "weapon" that can wreak disaster on others. I encourage you to ask God for awareness of the capabilities of your tongue. May you always use it for His endorsement vice the lethal options that are readily available.
March 5, 2011
Stay Put
Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.
Proverbs 5:15
Solomon is on a roll in this chapter of warning us of wrong choices and the destruction that results out of our poor choices. The advice is simple but effective: stay put and don't seek "other wells". Many of our downfalls occur when our eyes start noticing "other" things that we don't have. Once we see them, our minds dwell on them.
Initially, we know the enticement is wrong but we continue to reason with ourselves. Eventually, we have convinced ourselves that although it may be perceived as wrong, we have justified away any feelings of guilt. Afterwards, we proceed down the slippery slope until we are consumed with the forbidden pleasure. Then, when we come to our sense do we lament our choices.
Solomon's simple advice is the best - never leave what is given to you by God. If you cling to Him and leave the worldly attractions alone, you never have to regret your thoughts and actions. Just stay put in God's grace and pray for his protection against temptation.
Proverbs 5:15
Solomon is on a roll in this chapter of warning us of wrong choices and the destruction that results out of our poor choices. The advice is simple but effective: stay put and don't seek "other wells". Many of our downfalls occur when our eyes start noticing "other" things that we don't have. Once we see them, our minds dwell on them.
Initially, we know the enticement is wrong but we continue to reason with ourselves. Eventually, we have convinced ourselves that although it may be perceived as wrong, we have justified away any feelings of guilt. Afterwards, we proceed down the slippery slope until we are consumed with the forbidden pleasure. Then, when we come to our sense do we lament our choices.
Solomon's simple advice is the best - never leave what is given to you by God. If you cling to Him and leave the worldly attractions alone, you never have to regret your thoughts and actions. Just stay put in God's grace and pray for his protection against temptation.
March 4, 2011
Fleet Feet of Faith
When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.
Proverbs 4:12
I love to take hikes through the woods behind my house. When I am alone in the woods, I feel closer to God. You can't help but recognize His supreme power when you observe his creation up close and personal. Unfortunately, I often get distracted with looking up and around me and forget to watch where I am walking and subsequently stumble. It quickly jars you back to reality that you are trying to walk without paying attention to where you are stepping!
Solomon promises to those who treasure wisdom the assurance that their paths will be straight and smooth. How often do we stumble in life? Just when we think we have everything going our way, we trip and fall. Perhaps it is because we took our eyes off what matters most - God's love and guidance. When we are close to God, we are comforted and content. When we venture out on our own, we stumble. Perhaps, the slips, trips and falls are a familiar reminder that we need to keep our focus on the one who can smooth our way vice trying to go our own way? Through faith, we are assured fleet feet when we stay focus on what truly matters most!
Proverbs 4:12
I love to take hikes through the woods behind my house. When I am alone in the woods, I feel closer to God. You can't help but recognize His supreme power when you observe his creation up close and personal. Unfortunately, I often get distracted with looking up and around me and forget to watch where I am walking and subsequently stumble. It quickly jars you back to reality that you are trying to walk without paying attention to where you are stepping!
Solomon promises to those who treasure wisdom the assurance that their paths will be straight and smooth. How often do we stumble in life? Just when we think we have everything going our way, we trip and fall. Perhaps it is because we took our eyes off what matters most - God's love and guidance. When we are close to God, we are comforted and content. When we venture out on our own, we stumble. Perhaps, the slips, trips and falls are a familiar reminder that we need to keep our focus on the one who can smooth our way vice trying to go our own way? Through faith, we are assured fleet feet when we stay focus on what truly matters most!
March 3, 2011
Don't Forget Your Roots
Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
Proverbs 3:3
My father cautioned me to "never forget my roots". He wanted to ensure that no matter how successful I was in life, I didn't forget my past. While my youth was not a life of bliss, it was a blessed life. I had parents that cared enough to teach me the proper way to behave and to respect others. Solomon cautions us in a similar manner in the verse above.
It was by God's mercy and the truth of Jesus teachings that we are saved. Not by any of our actions or behaviors - it was freely given to each of us. And we should never forget this. Too often, we "forget" and look down our long, pointy noses at the despicable actions of sinners. But by the grace of God, we would be in the same, if not worse, situation.
Have you forgotten the roots of your salvation? Ask God to renew your memory of the events surrounding your salvation. With a renewed appreciation for God's mercy and truth, we will want to share this wonderful experience with others instead of condemning their behavior. Remember the roots of your salvation and share the mercy and truth with others around you!
Proverbs 3:3
My father cautioned me to "never forget my roots". He wanted to ensure that no matter how successful I was in life, I didn't forget my past. While my youth was not a life of bliss, it was a blessed life. I had parents that cared enough to teach me the proper way to behave and to respect others. Solomon cautions us in a similar manner in the verse above.
It was by God's mercy and the truth of Jesus teachings that we are saved. Not by any of our actions or behaviors - it was freely given to each of us. And we should never forget this. Too often, we "forget" and look down our long, pointy noses at the despicable actions of sinners. But by the grace of God, we would be in the same, if not worse, situation.
Have you forgotten the roots of your salvation? Ask God to renew your memory of the events surrounding your salvation. With a renewed appreciation for God's mercy and truth, we will want to share this wonderful experience with others instead of condemning their behavior. Remember the roots of your salvation and share the mercy and truth with others around you!
March 2, 2011
Strange Satisfaction
Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked;
Proverbs 2:14
Have you ever observed someone who gets satisfaction from performing evil acts? It is a disturbing sight to behold. From abusing animals to child molestation, I can never wrap my head around what motivates people to do such evil things. I am convinced they surely must have "a screw loose" in their thought process. God did not create the many wonders of this world for them to provide entertainment while being abused.
However, Solomon defines these type of people in the verse above as characteristics of evil men. And Paul describes them as well in Romans 1:32. The disturbing part is that both Solomon and Paul point out that these people are aware of righteousness but refuse to follow after it. Pretty scary, isn't it? That you would know the right way to behave but choose not to. How could someone be so strange?
Wasn't it the same with us before we gave our life to God? We knew that we were living in sin and fully knowledgeable but yet we refused to surrender our lives to God. Fortunately, by His grace, we were saved. And we should do the same to others - ensure they are made aware of God's saving grace and his willingness to forgive them of their distorted behavior. We need to be like God and love the individuals soul, not their behavior. Perhaps if we separate our opinion of their soul (and its need for salvation) from their behavior (which we despise and condemn), we can approach them in a manner that will lead them from strange satisfaction to heavenly contentment.
Proverbs 2:14
Have you ever observed someone who gets satisfaction from performing evil acts? It is a disturbing sight to behold. From abusing animals to child molestation, I can never wrap my head around what motivates people to do such evil things. I am convinced they surely must have "a screw loose" in their thought process. God did not create the many wonders of this world for them to provide entertainment while being abused.
However, Solomon defines these type of people in the verse above as characteristics of evil men. And Paul describes them as well in Romans 1:32. The disturbing part is that both Solomon and Paul point out that these people are aware of righteousness but refuse to follow after it. Pretty scary, isn't it? That you would know the right way to behave but choose not to. How could someone be so strange?
Wasn't it the same with us before we gave our life to God? We knew that we were living in sin and fully knowledgeable but yet we refused to surrender our lives to God. Fortunately, by His grace, we were saved. And we should do the same to others - ensure they are made aware of God's saving grace and his willingness to forgive them of their distorted behavior. We need to be like God and love the individuals soul, not their behavior. Perhaps if we separate our opinion of their soul (and its need for salvation) from their behavior (which we despise and condemn), we can approach them in a manner that will lead them from strange satisfaction to heavenly contentment.
March 1, 2011
Blissful Ignorance
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?
Proverbs 1:22
Solomon paints a picture of blissful ignorance. People don"t realize the predicament they are in due to failing to recognize the severity of the situation. It has happened to many of us on several occasions. Afterwards, we regret that we ever made the decision. However, we that have come to know Christ, recognize the foolishness of our previous lifestyle.
Carefully look back on the events that lead up to you recognizing the sinful ways of your life. Most of them involve action by others to assist you in recognizing your error. Whether is be a personal conversation, an invitation to church, placement of tracts or Bibles, or funded media presentations. Each of these activities require action from an individual to support God's call upon your heart. The big question is what have you done since your conversion to aid others? Are you giving of yourself to help others? The Great Commission of Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20 does not direct us to simply receive his salvation but to share with others.
What have you done today to turn others away from blissful ignorance?
Proverbs 1:22
Solomon paints a picture of blissful ignorance. People don"t realize the predicament they are in due to failing to recognize the severity of the situation. It has happened to many of us on several occasions. Afterwards, we regret that we ever made the decision. However, we that have come to know Christ, recognize the foolishness of our previous lifestyle.
Carefully look back on the events that lead up to you recognizing the sinful ways of your life. Most of them involve action by others to assist you in recognizing your error. Whether is be a personal conversation, an invitation to church, placement of tracts or Bibles, or funded media presentations. Each of these activities require action from an individual to support God's call upon your heart. The big question is what have you done since your conversion to aid others? Are you giving of yourself to help others? The Great Commission of Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20 does not direct us to simply receive his salvation but to share with others.
What have you done today to turn others away from blissful ignorance?
February 28, 2011
Partial Blindness
He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
Proverbs 28:27
While we may have 20/20 vision, we are often partially blind. We choose to only see what we want not what is visible. While we may easily see a homeless person begging for money or a couple struggling through the early stages leading to divorce, what do we really see? Solomon alludes to us "hiding our eyes" in the verse above and I agree. We only choose to "see" what we want to see.
Do we see the need? Or are we too busy to give of our time or money? Hence we only see another despondent person without hope for tomorrow and we appease our conscience by simply writing another check to an appropriate charity. God doesn't only ask for our money - He wants all of us. This includes our heart, time, experience and comforting words. Many times, money will not suffice but a listening ear that is backed by a compassionate heart is more appreciated.
Ask God to show you how to respond when you actually "see" the struggles of others.
Proverbs 28:27
While we may have 20/20 vision, we are often partially blind. We choose to only see what we want not what is visible. While we may easily see a homeless person begging for money or a couple struggling through the early stages leading to divorce, what do we really see? Solomon alludes to us "hiding our eyes" in the verse above and I agree. We only choose to "see" what we want to see.
Do we see the need? Or are we too busy to give of our time or money? Hence we only see another despondent person without hope for tomorrow and we appease our conscience by simply writing another check to an appropriate charity. God doesn't only ask for our money - He wants all of us. This includes our heart, time, experience and comforting words. Many times, money will not suffice but a listening ear that is backed by a compassionate heart is more appreciated.
Ask God to show you how to respond when you actually "see" the struggles of others.
February 27, 2011
Danger Ahead
A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished.
Proverbs 27:12
While teaching our children to drive, I stress looking ahead - what posted signs do you see and what obstacles lay ahead that can come into your path. While there may not be anything directly in their path, vehicles, children playing or changing red lights can quickly change their driving path and present obstacles.
The same is true with our spiritual life. While we may be enjoying a closeness with God, there are many obstacles ahead that can quickly change our relationship with our Savior. We need to be able to recognize these challenges and respond accordingly. Solomon gives us great advice in the verse above - when we see evil, we need to hide our self in God's love and protection.
While many of the challenges are easily recognizable, many are not. It is hard for us to discern the subtle snares that lay ahead. It is only through a closeness with God that we are able to recognize them and respond accordingly before it is too late. Jesus promised us the Holy Ghost would "teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26). Let God's Holy Spirit warn you of the dangers ahead so that you can avoid them and remain in His loving grace.
Proverbs 27:12
While teaching our children to drive, I stress looking ahead - what posted signs do you see and what obstacles lay ahead that can come into your path. While there may not be anything directly in their path, vehicles, children playing or changing red lights can quickly change their driving path and present obstacles.
The same is true with our spiritual life. While we may be enjoying a closeness with God, there are many obstacles ahead that can quickly change our relationship with our Savior. We need to be able to recognize these challenges and respond accordingly. Solomon gives us great advice in the verse above - when we see evil, we need to hide our self in God's love and protection.
While many of the challenges are easily recognizable, many are not. It is hard for us to discern the subtle snares that lay ahead. It is only through a closeness with God that we are able to recognize them and respond accordingly before it is too late. Jesus promised us the Holy Ghost would "teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26). Let God's Holy Spirit warn you of the dangers ahead so that you can avoid them and remain in His loving grace.
