B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 8
December 19, 2013
Little White Lies
A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.
Proverbs 19:9
We love to see liars punished, except when it is us! No one enjoys being the recipient of a lie - we feel cheated, betrayed and unloved. And we fail to understand the thought process that would allow someone we trust to lie to us. And yet, we do the same to others. However, we justify our actions by categorizing our lies into the "little white lies" area. No one will get hurt and no evil intentions are behind our misleading statements. Simply the truth is not a convenient option at the time.
I have searched the bible multiple times and have yet to locate a distinction in lies. Whether they be malicious or kind is never discussed. Simply, they are wrong. We see numerous incidents throughout the bible where lies manifest themselves into grievous problems. And I have experienced the same in my life.
One lie usually requires another to support it. Before long, we are trapped within the web of lies we have strewn and it eventually comes crashing down with horrific results. Why not resist the temptation initially so that we and others do not suffer? Our results of lying are no better than Peter denying Christ before the rooster crowed. (Matthew 26:69-75) While we may receive forgiveness from Christ, much like Peter, the pain and suffering of others is not removed.
So, as we pause to place our response in the "little white lie" category, let's pause a little longer and remain silent. Words unspoken can not harm others.
Proverbs 19:9
We love to see liars punished, except when it is us! No one enjoys being the recipient of a lie - we feel cheated, betrayed and unloved. And we fail to understand the thought process that would allow someone we trust to lie to us. And yet, we do the same to others. However, we justify our actions by categorizing our lies into the "little white lies" area. No one will get hurt and no evil intentions are behind our misleading statements. Simply the truth is not a convenient option at the time.
I have searched the bible multiple times and have yet to locate a distinction in lies. Whether they be malicious or kind is never discussed. Simply, they are wrong. We see numerous incidents throughout the bible where lies manifest themselves into grievous problems. And I have experienced the same in my life.
One lie usually requires another to support it. Before long, we are trapped within the web of lies we have strewn and it eventually comes crashing down with horrific results. Why not resist the temptation initially so that we and others do not suffer? Our results of lying are no better than Peter denying Christ before the rooster crowed. (Matthew 26:69-75) While we may receive forgiveness from Christ, much like Peter, the pain and suffering of others is not removed.
So, as we pause to place our response in the "little white lie" category, let's pause a little longer and remain silent. Words unspoken can not harm others.
December 18, 2013
Wasted Riches
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
Proverbs 18:9
While the Lord blesses us mightily, we sometimes fail to see it. Perhaps, it is because we are like the two described in the verse above. Solomon points to two methods of minimizing our wealth in blessings - laziness and wasting.
If we are lazy, we mirror the parable given by Jesus of the lazy servant (Matthew 25:14-30). Likewise, what was given by our Lord will be taken away. And the waster can deplete more than is given simply by throwing it away. No matter how much wealth is provided, it is never enough! The bottom line is that we should wisely use what is given to us to increase its worth. Paul describes many of the gifts given to us in Romans 12:4-11. And his exhortation? Do not be slothful with your gifts!
Take time to evaluate the gifts given to you from the Lord. Are you using them wisely to bring credit to our Master? If so, he will reward you upon his return!
Proverbs 18:9
While the Lord blesses us mightily, we sometimes fail to see it. Perhaps, it is because we are like the two described in the verse above. Solomon points to two methods of minimizing our wealth in blessings - laziness and wasting.
If we are lazy, we mirror the parable given by Jesus of the lazy servant (Matthew 25:14-30). Likewise, what was given by our Lord will be taken away. And the waster can deplete more than is given simply by throwing it away. No matter how much wealth is provided, it is never enough! The bottom line is that we should wisely use what is given to us to increase its worth. Paul describes many of the gifts given to us in Romans 12:4-11. And his exhortation? Do not be slothful with your gifts!
Take time to evaluate the gifts given to you from the Lord. Are you using them wisely to bring credit to our Master? If so, he will reward you upon his return!
December 17, 2013
A Wise Fool
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
Proverbs 17:28
Solomon points out that when a fool is silent, he is considered wise and full of understanding. It is only when we open our mouth that we remove all doubt! But the temptation to speak, at times, is overpowering. Whether it be in anger or to gossip, we can't seem to keep our words to ourselves.
It is beyond my ability to determine who is foolish or wise. However, the words that some speak clearly indicate the foolishness of their thoughts. Likewise, if I am still a fool, I consider it wise to keep my words restrained at times. For out of our heart are our thoughts and our words from our thoughts. David describes it best inPsalms 19:14 - Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
If our heart is pure, our words will be acceptable to God. If not, we are but speaking foolishly. Silence the critics by silencing your words. More importantly, gain approval of the One that matters most by speaking only words led by Him.
Proverbs 17:28
Solomon points out that when a fool is silent, he is considered wise and full of understanding. It is only when we open our mouth that we remove all doubt! But the temptation to speak, at times, is overpowering. Whether it be in anger or to gossip, we can't seem to keep our words to ourselves.
It is beyond my ability to determine who is foolish or wise. However, the words that some speak clearly indicate the foolishness of their thoughts. Likewise, if I am still a fool, I consider it wise to keep my words restrained at times. For out of our heart are our thoughts and our words from our thoughts. David describes it best inPsalms 19:14 - Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
If our heart is pure, our words will be acceptable to God. If not, we are but speaking foolishly. Silence the critics by silencing your words. More importantly, gain approval of the One that matters most by speaking only words led by Him.
December 16, 2013
Healthy Sweets
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Proverbs 16:24
I have always loved pure honey. And its health benefits continue to be identified. What a winning combination - something that is sweet and good for you! Solomon compares the benefits of honey to that of pleasant words - sweet to the soul and health to the bones. We can all attest to the benefits of pleasant words - it instantly makes us feel appreciated and our efforts worthwhile. And the cost of kind words? Nothing but taking the effort to notice someone's efforts and voicing our appreciation.
Why, then, are pleasant words so rare? The next time you are in a public area, take note of how many pleasant words are exchanged vice stinging words of criticism. Dare I challenge you to the same poll within your home? We all love receiving kind words, so why do we refrain from sharing such joy with others? It is easily within our ability to spread such a healthy sweet and costs so little. Yet, such words are sometimes scarce from our lips.
I encourage you to join me in resolving to spreading cheer the old fashion way this year - by praising those around us!
Proverbs 16:24
I have always loved pure honey. And its health benefits continue to be identified. What a winning combination - something that is sweet and good for you! Solomon compares the benefits of honey to that of pleasant words - sweet to the soul and health to the bones. We can all attest to the benefits of pleasant words - it instantly makes us feel appreciated and our efforts worthwhile. And the cost of kind words? Nothing but taking the effort to notice someone's efforts and voicing our appreciation.
Why, then, are pleasant words so rare? The next time you are in a public area, take note of how many pleasant words are exchanged vice stinging words of criticism. Dare I challenge you to the same poll within your home? We all love receiving kind words, so why do we refrain from sharing such joy with others? It is easily within our ability to spread such a healthy sweet and costs so little. Yet, such words are sometimes scarce from our lips.
I encourage you to join me in resolving to spreading cheer the old fashion way this year - by praising those around us!
December 15, 2013
The List Of Good And Bad
The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.
Proverbs 15:3
As a child, I grew up listening to the song warning children that Santa Claus knew who was naughty or nice. Quite an intimidating feat for a youngster to comprehend. However, as I have grown and accepted Christ, it pales in comparison to the omniscience of God. He not only can see our behavior but he knows our heart as well. While we may be kind and smiling on the outside, he knows our true feelings. Jeremiah sums it up best: I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve. (Jeremiah 17:10)
Even within my feeble mind, I shudder when I try to balance the good and bad in my life. I quickly recognize that I am not worthy of any gifts based upon my behavior. But then I have received the greatest gift of all time - God's grace. Not that I was worthy, but because he loved me! Paul is much more adept of describing God's gift of grace in Romans 5 & 6. What a gift! What a reason to celebrate and have a holiday! God's gift began with the incarnation of his one and only son on the day we celebrate as Christmas.
While we need to recognize the severity of our unworthiness, this time of the year is focused on the greatest gift to mankind - God's Son for our sins.
Proverbs 15:3
As a child, I grew up listening to the song warning children that Santa Claus knew who was naughty or nice. Quite an intimidating feat for a youngster to comprehend. However, as I have grown and accepted Christ, it pales in comparison to the omniscience of God. He not only can see our behavior but he knows our heart as well. While we may be kind and smiling on the outside, he knows our true feelings. Jeremiah sums it up best: I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve. (Jeremiah 17:10)
Even within my feeble mind, I shudder when I try to balance the good and bad in my life. I quickly recognize that I am not worthy of any gifts based upon my behavior. But then I have received the greatest gift of all time - God's grace. Not that I was worthy, but because he loved me! Paul is much more adept of describing God's gift of grace in Romans 5 & 6. What a gift! What a reason to celebrate and have a holiday! God's gift began with the incarnation of his one and only son on the day we celebrate as Christmas.
While we need to recognize the severity of our unworthiness, this time of the year is focused on the greatest gift to mankind - God's Son for our sins.
December 14, 2013
Happy Holidays
He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.
Proverbs 14:21
It is the season where we hear and see the phrase "Happy Holidays" almost continuously. But unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be too much happiness amongst the crowds of people rushing around in preparation for Christmas. I believe Solomon has the answer to the dilemma in the verse above.
When we despise or have disdain for our neighbor, we sin. And happiness and sin can not live in the same heart. Whether it is over their ability to give larger gifts, their looks or wealth, we should not despise our neighbor. Happiness is not measured by assets or looks but by the contentment within the soul. I have known many destitute people that were happier than the richest people on earth. Why? Because they had the love of Christ within their heart. One jokingly said that he was happy that he didn't have to worry how to keep his wealth in such a tumultuous economy! What a different perspective than those envious of their neighbor's wealth.
And the second half of the verse clearly hits us between the eyes at Christmas. Often we are more concerned with the parity of the gifts than we are the intentions with which the gift is given. When we give with no expectation of receiving something in return, we are truly giving. Interestingly enough, my heart is usually blessed more when I give with no expectation of reciprocal gifts.
Are your holidays happy? If not, pause to evaluate your heart. Push out the despiteful (vice delightful) feelings in your heart and give to those less fortunate. You too will soon be beaming with the joy coming from the heart! Didn't Jesus give us the ultimate gift with no expectation for a reciprocal gift? That is how we should celebrate his birth, by following his example of joyful giving to others with no exchange gift required!
Proverbs 14:21
It is the season where we hear and see the phrase "Happy Holidays" almost continuously. But unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be too much happiness amongst the crowds of people rushing around in preparation for Christmas. I believe Solomon has the answer to the dilemma in the verse above.
When we despise or have disdain for our neighbor, we sin. And happiness and sin can not live in the same heart. Whether it is over their ability to give larger gifts, their looks or wealth, we should not despise our neighbor. Happiness is not measured by assets or looks but by the contentment within the soul. I have known many destitute people that were happier than the richest people on earth. Why? Because they had the love of Christ within their heart. One jokingly said that he was happy that he didn't have to worry how to keep his wealth in such a tumultuous economy! What a different perspective than those envious of their neighbor's wealth.
And the second half of the verse clearly hits us between the eyes at Christmas. Often we are more concerned with the parity of the gifts than we are the intentions with which the gift is given. When we give with no expectation of receiving something in return, we are truly giving. Interestingly enough, my heart is usually blessed more when I give with no expectation of reciprocal gifts.
Are your holidays happy? If not, pause to evaluate your heart. Push out the despiteful (vice delightful) feelings in your heart and give to those less fortunate. You too will soon be beaming with the joy coming from the heart! Didn't Jesus give us the ultimate gift with no expectation for a reciprocal gift? That is how we should celebrate his birth, by following his example of joyful giving to others with no exchange gift required!
December 13, 2013
Birds Of The Feather
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Proverbs 13:20
The phrase "birds of the feather, will flock together" is credited back to Plato's time. And it is similar to Solomon's discussion above - we tend to hang out with those of similar personalities. I explained to my boys the concept of "guilty by association" in that even if you do no wrong, you will be assumed to have done wrong if you associate with wrongdoers.
So is the same with our spiritual life - Paul warn us of being "unequally yoked" with non-Christians (2 Cor 6:14-18). We need to cultivate our relationships with fellow Christians so that we can encourage each other to follow His will. People do take notice of your friends and tend to judge you similarly. Are you being judged as a Christian? Do you encourage your friends to a closer walk with God? Are you comfortable discussing His Word with your friends? If not, perhaps you need to re-examine your friendships to ensure they are strengthening vice weakening your relationship with your Savior.
While we should not be too concerned with public opinion of our behavior, we must be vigilant in our relationships with others as judged by God.
Proverbs 13:20
The phrase "birds of the feather, will flock together" is credited back to Plato's time. And it is similar to Solomon's discussion above - we tend to hang out with those of similar personalities. I explained to my boys the concept of "guilty by association" in that even if you do no wrong, you will be assumed to have done wrong if you associate with wrongdoers.
So is the same with our spiritual life - Paul warn us of being "unequally yoked" with non-Christians (2 Cor 6:14-18). We need to cultivate our relationships with fellow Christians so that we can encourage each other to follow His will. People do take notice of your friends and tend to judge you similarly. Are you being judged as a Christian? Do you encourage your friends to a closer walk with God? Are you comfortable discussing His Word with your friends? If not, perhaps you need to re-examine your friendships to ensure they are strengthening vice weakening your relationship with your Savior.
While we should not be too concerned with public opinion of our behavior, we must be vigilant in our relationships with others as judged by God.
December 12, 2013
Public Perception
A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.
Proverbs 12:4
Too often, we judge people by what we see in their outward behavior. Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to judge a person's heart - only God can. Let me give you an example: there was a young lady who was engaged. Unfortunately, she became pregnant before the wedding. And rumors were flying that the child was not from the potential bridegroom! What a horrible situation - a young man had offered his heart and his future to a young woman who was willing to trample his love by having a child by another! Many shook their heads and agreed that it was only fitting that the young man cancel the wedding and move on to a more faithful wife. Wouldn't you agree?
But there are a couple of twists to the story. The bridegroom did not break off the engagement and the wife birthed our Savior! Quite a different situation? No, not really. We are too quick to judge others by public perception without focusing on the important part - their salvation. For you see, Mary was a virtuous woman that did bring more glory to her husband than could ever be imagined! Yet, they did not follow public perception but God's guidance.
So today, when you are tempted to judge others, pray for them instead!
Proverbs 12:4
Too often, we judge people by what we see in their outward behavior. Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to judge a person's heart - only God can. Let me give you an example: there was a young lady who was engaged. Unfortunately, she became pregnant before the wedding. And rumors were flying that the child was not from the potential bridegroom! What a horrible situation - a young man had offered his heart and his future to a young woman who was willing to trample his love by having a child by another! Many shook their heads and agreed that it was only fitting that the young man cancel the wedding and move on to a more faithful wife. Wouldn't you agree?
But there are a couple of twists to the story. The bridegroom did not break off the engagement and the wife birthed our Savior! Quite a different situation? No, not really. We are too quick to judge others by public perception without focusing on the important part - their salvation. For you see, Mary was a virtuous woman that did bring more glory to her husband than could ever be imagined! Yet, they did not follow public perception but God's guidance.
So today, when you are tempted to judge others, pray for them instead!
December 11, 2013
Wrestling Pigs
As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.
Proverbs 11:22
The image of a pig running around with jewelry in its nose is quite preposterous. A pig uses its nose to root around in the mud more than to smell - is that where we want to place jewelry? Not really! And it reminds me of the old saying regarding lowering your standards to those of your detractors - "Don't wrestle a pig. You both get muddy and the pig likes it!"
We must use discretion in our choices each day. There are opportunities at home and in the work place where people are just itching for an argument. And many times we are tempted to jump in the argument just to prove our point. However, I have learned to question myself - "What are the benefits of arguing this point?". If you stop and think, without the emotion of the moment, you will realize that you will not sway the other individual's opinion. The only accomplishment of the quarrel is to simply demonstrate that you have a temper too! And you run the risk of saying something that you will later regret. Use discretion and walk away. It takes greater strength to walk away than to lower yourself to their level and argue uselessly.
Jesus did not debate and argue his detractors - even when his life was on the line. We should follow his example of living above the ordinary response to temptation and not wrestle pigs!
Proverbs 11:22
The image of a pig running around with jewelry in its nose is quite preposterous. A pig uses its nose to root around in the mud more than to smell - is that where we want to place jewelry? Not really! And it reminds me of the old saying regarding lowering your standards to those of your detractors - "Don't wrestle a pig. You both get muddy and the pig likes it!"
We must use discretion in our choices each day. There are opportunities at home and in the work place where people are just itching for an argument. And many times we are tempted to jump in the argument just to prove our point. However, I have learned to question myself - "What are the benefits of arguing this point?". If you stop and think, without the emotion of the moment, you will realize that you will not sway the other individual's opinion. The only accomplishment of the quarrel is to simply demonstrate that you have a temper too! And you run the risk of saying something that you will later regret. Use discretion and walk away. It takes greater strength to walk away than to lower yourself to their level and argue uselessly.
Jesus did not debate and argue his detractors - even when his life was on the line. We should follow his example of living above the ordinary response to temptation and not wrestle pigs!
December 10, 2013
Precious Memories
The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.
Proverbs 10:7
One of my favorite hymns while growing up was "Precious Memories". While the tune was a little slow, the words have stuck with me over the years. It is these fond memories of our parents and mentors that help shape our behavior. One favorite memory I have is of our Agricultural Teacher in school. He always displayed genteel manners and lightened any mood with an appropriate joke. His love for each and every one of his students was genuine. Whenever I meet someone who went to my school, the subject invariably ends up discussing him and his wife - both school teachers with a heart for their students.
I have often wondered if any one will remember me, long after I am gone. And Solomon promises above that if we are just in our behavior, our memory will be blessed. While we are often focused on the here and now, we sometimes need to pause and think of the legacy we are leaving with our children and their peers. Will we be remembered as some one who showed the love of God to others? Or simply dismissed as someone who was too wrapped in themselves to share?
As we celebrate the greatest gift to mankind, what gift are you giving to others? Not in presents or performances but in the day-to-day life that you are living? Do you have a Godly focus on others or focused on yourself? Take a moment today to pause and re-live the precious memories others have given you. Then share them with others by creating lasting memories of kindness to others.
Proverbs 10:7
One of my favorite hymns while growing up was "Precious Memories". While the tune was a little slow, the words have stuck with me over the years. It is these fond memories of our parents and mentors that help shape our behavior. One favorite memory I have is of our Agricultural Teacher in school. He always displayed genteel manners and lightened any mood with an appropriate joke. His love for each and every one of his students was genuine. Whenever I meet someone who went to my school, the subject invariably ends up discussing him and his wife - both school teachers with a heart for their students.
I have often wondered if any one will remember me, long after I am gone. And Solomon promises above that if we are just in our behavior, our memory will be blessed. While we are often focused on the here and now, we sometimes need to pause and think of the legacy we are leaving with our children and their peers. Will we be remembered as some one who showed the love of God to others? Or simply dismissed as someone who was too wrapped in themselves to share?
As we celebrate the greatest gift to mankind, what gift are you giving to others? Not in presents or performances but in the day-to-day life that you are living? Do you have a Godly focus on others or focused on yourself? Take a moment today to pause and re-live the precious memories others have given you. Then share them with others by creating lasting memories of kindness to others.
