B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 81
January 27, 2011
Evil Envy
Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
Proverbs 27:4
Solomon paints a grim picture of both wrath and anger. We have seen first hand the effects of both when they are out of control. Everyone within hearing distance are negatively impacted by the outburst and the physical response that accompanies the loss of control. No matter how nice the person may normally behave, the outburst will be permanently etched in our memory and associated with the individual.
And yet, Solomon supersedes such behavior by envy. While we may be quick to counter that while we may be slightly envious, we have never behaved in such a manner. But have we? Our thoughts and behavior are driven by our emotions. We respond to people based upon our perception of them. If we are envious of their possessions or position, can we honestly say that we treat them as Christ wants us to? Or do we allow our envy to overcome our response to these people? While our response may not be as dramatic as the angry outburst, our actions have the ability to adversely impact those around us.
Can we honestly say that we follow Jesus' second greatest commandment: And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Matthew 22:39? Not if we have envy in our heart. Rid yourself of evil envy and you will have room to share God's love with others.
Proverbs 27:4
Solomon paints a grim picture of both wrath and anger. We have seen first hand the effects of both when they are out of control. Everyone within hearing distance are negatively impacted by the outburst and the physical response that accompanies the loss of control. No matter how nice the person may normally behave, the outburst will be permanently etched in our memory and associated with the individual.
And yet, Solomon supersedes such behavior by envy. While we may be quick to counter that while we may be slightly envious, we have never behaved in such a manner. But have we? Our thoughts and behavior are driven by our emotions. We respond to people based upon our perception of them. If we are envious of their possessions or position, can we honestly say that we treat them as Christ wants us to? Or do we allow our envy to overcome our response to these people? While our response may not be as dramatic as the angry outburst, our actions have the ability to adversely impact those around us.
Can we honestly say that we follow Jesus' second greatest commandment: And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Matthew 22:39? Not if we have envy in our heart. Rid yourself of evil envy and you will have room to share God's love with others.
January 26, 2011
Toilet Paper in the Trousers
Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.
Proverbs 26:26
Nothing is so humiliating as coming out of the bathroom with toilet paper hanging from your trousers! While you are oblivious to the embarrassment, other snicker behind your back (literally). Finally, someone is kind enough to discreetly tell you of your mishap. Depending on how long and how many people have seen your situation, your level of embarrassment escalates. Quite a humbling experience for any one that has had the misfortune of such a mistake!
Solomon warns of even worse humiliation above. Careful scrutiny of the verse depicts a scene in a church where one's wickedness is displayed before all to see. Here is one, among his fellow church-goers, being exposed for what he truly is - wicked. How humiliating to see one that espouses to be a Christian being shown for what he truly is. Scary? Realistic? The answer to both is yes.
While we may be tempted to build a laundry list of "prime candidates" within our own church, perhaps we should turn the search lamp internally. Is there something in your life that would be humiliating is known by your Christian peers? Sadly, God already knows. The only solution is to humble yourself before him and seek His forgiveness.
While fear of humiliation may not be the best motivator for Christian living, it should be a factor in considering our walk with our Savior. Do you have a sheet of "TP" creeping out of your trousers? If so, seek Him today and he will wash away all sin and rid us of the evidence. It is better to have a clear conscience and boldly face forward without the constant looking over our shoulder for the humiliation that may be following us.
Proverbs 26:26
Nothing is so humiliating as coming out of the bathroom with toilet paper hanging from your trousers! While you are oblivious to the embarrassment, other snicker behind your back (literally). Finally, someone is kind enough to discreetly tell you of your mishap. Depending on how long and how many people have seen your situation, your level of embarrassment escalates. Quite a humbling experience for any one that has had the misfortune of such a mistake!
Solomon warns of even worse humiliation above. Careful scrutiny of the verse depicts a scene in a church where one's wickedness is displayed before all to see. Here is one, among his fellow church-goers, being exposed for what he truly is - wicked. How humiliating to see one that espouses to be a Christian being shown for what he truly is. Scary? Realistic? The answer to both is yes.
While we may be tempted to build a laundry list of "prime candidates" within our own church, perhaps we should turn the search lamp internally. Is there something in your life that would be humiliating is known by your Christian peers? Sadly, God already knows. The only solution is to humble yourself before him and seek His forgiveness.
While fear of humiliation may not be the best motivator for Christian living, it should be a factor in considering our walk with our Savior. Do you have a sheet of "TP" creeping out of your trousers? If so, seek Him today and he will wash away all sin and rid us of the evidence. It is better to have a clear conscience and boldly face forward without the constant looking over our shoulder for the humiliation that may be following us.
January 25, 2011
The Purification Process
Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.
Proverbs 25:4
When we think of fine jewelry, we always want the best. The purer the silver or gold, the happier we are! No one wants a cubic zirconium ring - for they know, even if others don't, that the ring is a fake. And the sentimental attachment diminishes with impurity.
The same is true with our lives. While we may not enjoy the process, God strives to drive out the impurities in our life so that we may be more appealing to our Saviour. Paul describes it best in 2 Timothy 2:20-22:
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
God does not desire for us to be wooden vessels of dishonor but rather vessels of the purest silver and gold. And the only way we can achieve this feat is to pursue the traits listed by Paul above. As we purify ourselves, we become more valuable to our savior. As we become more valuable, we will be used more to accomplish His will. While the purification process is painful, the gain is much more than can be imagined in this life alone!
Proverbs 25:4
When we think of fine jewelry, we always want the best. The purer the silver or gold, the happier we are! No one wants a cubic zirconium ring - for they know, even if others don't, that the ring is a fake. And the sentimental attachment diminishes with impurity.
The same is true with our lives. While we may not enjoy the process, God strives to drive out the impurities in our life so that we may be more appealing to our Saviour. Paul describes it best in 2 Timothy 2:20-22:
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
God does not desire for us to be wooden vessels of dishonor but rather vessels of the purest silver and gold. And the only way we can achieve this feat is to pursue the traits listed by Paul above. As we purify ourselves, we become more valuable to our savior. As we become more valuable, we will be used more to accomplish His will. While the purification process is painful, the gain is much more than can be imagined in this life alone!
January 24, 2011
Visual Instruction
Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction.
Proverbs 24:32
In the preceding verses, Solomon observed the calamity of others. And he learned from their mistakes. Can we say the same? Or are we too busy telling others of the dramatic events to take notice of any lessons that are applicable to us? The enticement to gossip sometimes overwhelms our ability to visually digest what we have just seen. We are too busy sharing with others to stop and take notice of the real situation.
Notice what Solomon did after seeing the event - "he considered it well". He didn't say that he spread the juicy details or looked down his nose. No, he carefully considered the ramifications and recognized that but by the grace of God, he could have been the victim of such an event. And so could we. We need to carefully consider each situation we behold and ensure that we learn from others mistakes. The visual instruction of their destruction should serve as a grim reminder that we need to be firmly rooted in God's grace and plan for us.
Proverbs 24:32
In the preceding verses, Solomon observed the calamity of others. And he learned from their mistakes. Can we say the same? Or are we too busy telling others of the dramatic events to take notice of any lessons that are applicable to us? The enticement to gossip sometimes overwhelms our ability to visually digest what we have just seen. We are too busy sharing with others to stop and take notice of the real situation.
Notice what Solomon did after seeing the event - "he considered it well". He didn't say that he spread the juicy details or looked down his nose. No, he carefully considered the ramifications and recognized that but by the grace of God, he could have been the victim of such an event. And so could we. We need to carefully consider each situation we behold and ensure that we learn from others mistakes. The visual instruction of their destruction should serve as a grim reminder that we need to be firmly rooted in God's grace and plan for us.
January 23, 2011
Shopping List for Eternal Life
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
Proverbs 23:23
I always prepare a shopping list for groceries. It keeps me focus on what is needed and prevents the spurious purchases. More importantly, if keeps me from returning home without the important items that I needed. Nothing is more frustrating than getting home, only to realize that one item is missing from the dinner ingredients list!
Shouldn't we do the same for our spiritual life? Solomon gives us the key ingredients above. Perhaps a list would keep us from being distracted with the glitz and glitter of the worldly items? Perhaps we wouldn't forget a key ingredient like "understanding" as we go through our busy day? More importantly, we wouldn't arrive at Judgement Day short a key ingredient!
Post a list of key ingredients visible all day long so that you are reminded where our constant focus should be! I am certain your day, and life, will go smoother!
Proverbs 23:23
I always prepare a shopping list for groceries. It keeps me focus on what is needed and prevents the spurious purchases. More importantly, if keeps me from returning home without the important items that I needed. Nothing is more frustrating than getting home, only to realize that one item is missing from the dinner ingredients list!
Shouldn't we do the same for our spiritual life? Solomon gives us the key ingredients above. Perhaps a list would keep us from being distracted with the glitz and glitter of the worldly items? Perhaps we wouldn't forget a key ingredient like "understanding" as we go through our busy day? More importantly, we wouldn't arrive at Judgement Day short a key ingredient!
Post a list of key ingredients visible all day long so that you are reminded where our constant focus should be! I am certain your day, and life, will go smoother!
January 22, 2011
Youthful Indiscretion
Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
Proverbs 22:15
Too often, we view this verse in a physical manner. Solomon gives us parents the authority to physically correct our children. And while that may be true, I believe he was giving us guidance as Christians, not just as parents.
As new Christians, Paul refers to us as "babes in Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). As such, we have to grow and mature as Christians. Paul further explains in Hebrews 12:5-7, that the Lord corrects them that he loves. As well Solomon tell us in Proverbs 3:12 the same thing.
So before we get overjoyed in our physical responsibilities as parents, we need to humble ourselves as children of Christ. We should not be surprised when God corrects us for youthful indiscretions. For it is His way to correct us and to help us mature as Christians.
Proverbs 22:15
Too often, we view this verse in a physical manner. Solomon gives us parents the authority to physically correct our children. And while that may be true, I believe he was giving us guidance as Christians, not just as parents.
As new Christians, Paul refers to us as "babes in Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). As such, we have to grow and mature as Christians. Paul further explains in Hebrews 12:5-7, that the Lord corrects them that he loves. As well Solomon tell us in Proverbs 3:12 the same thing.
So before we get overjoyed in our physical responsibilities as parents, we need to humble ourselves as children of Christ. We should not be surprised when God corrects us for youthful indiscretions. For it is His way to correct us and to help us mature as Christians.
January 21, 2011
Rose-Colored Glasses
Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
Proverbs 21:2
It is so easy for us to see faults in others that we fail to see our own mistakes. (Matthew 7:2-5) Perhaps it is because we have on rose-colored glasses when we look at our own behavior. You remember those glasses in the 80's that made everything look rosy? And yes, there was even a country song about it! Unfortunately, we laugh at such a spectacle, but the second half of the verse is very sobering.
No matter how successful we are at explaining away our poor behavior, God knows. He see our actions, but more importantly, he knows our heart. While we may have a fake smile on our face, he knows how we feel in our heart. Would our actions be any different if we knew that those around could see our heart? Would the feigned concern, little white lies and evil thoughts leave our repetoire when we realized that others could see our intentions?
Let's toss the rose-colored sunglasses and see ourselves as we really are - He does. Seek foregiveness from Him and we will no longer have anything to hide!
Proverbs 21:2
It is so easy for us to see faults in others that we fail to see our own mistakes. (Matthew 7:2-5) Perhaps it is because we have on rose-colored glasses when we look at our own behavior. You remember those glasses in the 80's that made everything look rosy? And yes, there was even a country song about it! Unfortunately, we laugh at such a spectacle, but the second half of the verse is very sobering.
No matter how successful we are at explaining away our poor behavior, God knows. He see our actions, but more importantly, he knows our heart. While we may have a fake smile on our face, he knows how we feel in our heart. Would our actions be any different if we knew that those around could see our heart? Would the feigned concern, little white lies and evil thoughts leave our repetoire when we realized that others could see our intentions?
Let's toss the rose-colored sunglasses and see ourselves as we really are - He does. Seek foregiveness from Him and we will no longer have anything to hide!
January 20, 2011
Perfect Revenge
Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
Proverbs 20:22
What is the normal response when we have been wronged? Recognition turns into anger and anger morphs into plotting revenge. We become obsessed with it - from planning how to exact the perfect revenge, anticipating their response and projecting how satisfied we will feel with their downfall. Sounds familiar, right? Not according to Solomon.
Solomon encourages us to wait on the Lord and we will be saved. I have often imagined the powerful hand of God swooping in out of nowhere to smack my nemesis senseless when wrongfully accuses me of wrong-doing. Or perhaps a flame will erupt in her hair as she knowingly cheats you of your hard-earned money? Sounds like a sensational saving by our Savior - right? Plus, with His miraculous intervention, we can witness to others of His omnipotence at the expense of our enemy! What a wonderful twofer!
Unfortunately (or fortunately) I have not been blessed with such a saving by my Savior. But I have come to recognize that the saving may not be in the form of protecting me from evil doers as much as protecting me from sinning! When I try to exact revenge upon my enemy, I rarely (or never) have a Christian approach to it! It is just too personal to get God involved!!
Jesus's approach was a little different (Matthew 5:43-48). He didn't support getting even, rather He directs us to take the high road and love them. Love them? Yep. I have followed His guidance (on occasions) and shown love vice revenge. While it is difficult to do, it is entertaining to see the bewilderment of the individual when he realizes you are showering him with love vice revenge. No matter how many times he tries to hurt you, when you respond with love you confuse your enemy until he finally realizes he is not dealing with an ordinary foe. Indeed he is dealing with one saved by the Lord!
Isn't it only fitting, that we who have been shown love by the One we previously hated and rejected demonstrate it to others? Jesus waits patiently and with love until we overcome our bewilderment and surrender to Him. What a better revenge to show our enemies than the example shown by our Saviour to us?
Proverbs 20:22
What is the normal response when we have been wronged? Recognition turns into anger and anger morphs into plotting revenge. We become obsessed with it - from planning how to exact the perfect revenge, anticipating their response and projecting how satisfied we will feel with their downfall. Sounds familiar, right? Not according to Solomon.
Solomon encourages us to wait on the Lord and we will be saved. I have often imagined the powerful hand of God swooping in out of nowhere to smack my nemesis senseless when wrongfully accuses me of wrong-doing. Or perhaps a flame will erupt in her hair as she knowingly cheats you of your hard-earned money? Sounds like a sensational saving by our Savior - right? Plus, with His miraculous intervention, we can witness to others of His omnipotence at the expense of our enemy! What a wonderful twofer!
Unfortunately (or fortunately) I have not been blessed with such a saving by my Savior. But I have come to recognize that the saving may not be in the form of protecting me from evil doers as much as protecting me from sinning! When I try to exact revenge upon my enemy, I rarely (or never) have a Christian approach to it! It is just too personal to get God involved!!
Jesus's approach was a little different (Matthew 5:43-48). He didn't support getting even, rather He directs us to take the high road and love them. Love them? Yep. I have followed His guidance (on occasions) and shown love vice revenge. While it is difficult to do, it is entertaining to see the bewilderment of the individual when he realizes you are showering him with love vice revenge. No matter how many times he tries to hurt you, when you respond with love you confuse your enemy until he finally realizes he is not dealing with an ordinary foe. Indeed he is dealing with one saved by the Lord!
Isn't it only fitting, that we who have been shown love by the One we previously hated and rejected demonstrate it to others? Jesus waits patiently and with love until we overcome our bewilderment and surrender to Him. What a better revenge to show our enemies than the example shown by our Saviour to us?
January 19, 2011
Wisdom Isn't Rocket Science
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
Proverbs 19:20
Solomon gives us instruction on how to become wise. Interestingly, he doesn't mention that we have to prove our wisdom. No profound statements or lofty writings are required to impress others. No, simply hear and receive instruction. Yes to a little more than just hearing - we have to apply the instructions to our lives.
Simply hearing how to build a rocket does not make me a rocket scientist. Likewise, hearing how to be wise is not the same as having wisdom. We have to put into practice what we hear. If I built a "functional" rocket in my back yard, I could be considered a rocket scientist (and one who sleeps on the couch!). Likewise, if we practice making wise decisions, we will be viewed as wise.
Don't confuse pride with performance. Just because I can impress you with my ability to calculate the gravitational force on the moon's surface doesn't mean I am a rocket scientist. I simply remembered the equation from college physics! The same is true with wisdom. Just because I can quote profound statements does't make me wise. But if I behave in a wise manner in my daily activities, I will be accounted as wise.
Aren't we glad wisdom is not rocket science? We simply have to apply the principles given to us in His Word to achieve wisdom. Even a dummy like me can achieve that!
Proverbs 19:20
Solomon gives us instruction on how to become wise. Interestingly, he doesn't mention that we have to prove our wisdom. No profound statements or lofty writings are required to impress others. No, simply hear and receive instruction. Yes to a little more than just hearing - we have to apply the instructions to our lives.
Simply hearing how to build a rocket does not make me a rocket scientist. Likewise, hearing how to be wise is not the same as having wisdom. We have to put into practice what we hear. If I built a "functional" rocket in my back yard, I could be considered a rocket scientist (and one who sleeps on the couch!). Likewise, if we practice making wise decisions, we will be viewed as wise.
Don't confuse pride with performance. Just because I can impress you with my ability to calculate the gravitational force on the moon's surface doesn't mean I am a rocket scientist. I simply remembered the equation from college physics! The same is true with wisdom. Just because I can quote profound statements does't make me wise. But if I behave in a wise manner in my daily activities, I will be accounted as wise.
Aren't we glad wisdom is not rocket science? We simply have to apply the principles given to us in His Word to achieve wisdom. Even a dummy like me can achieve that!
January 18, 2011
Separate and Distinct
Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
Proverbs 18:1
Solomon has captured salvation in one verse! While we recognize Solomon as one of the smartest, it took me quite a while to fully understand his message in one simple verse. Our Savior offers salvation to all who will accept it - but we must desire it. As Solomon points out above, it starts with us taking the first step to desire His love and forgiveness. And the second step is separation - we can't be what we were before and be a new creature. We must forsake our old self and separate our actions from those before (2 Corinthians 6:17). As a result, our "old" friends will not normally accept such "new" behavior (Luke 6:22). While the challenge may seem daunting, when we "seek and intermeddleth" with Him, we are protected by a love greater than anything none on this earth! (Romans 8:37-39)
While we may not be wise or a great orator like Solomon, when we accept Christ's salvation and live our lives according to his will, we will be a separate and distinct witness of His love. What a better witness than each of us living a separate and distinct life for Christ?
Proverbs 18:1
Solomon has captured salvation in one verse! While we recognize Solomon as one of the smartest, it took me quite a while to fully understand his message in one simple verse. Our Savior offers salvation to all who will accept it - but we must desire it. As Solomon points out above, it starts with us taking the first step to desire His love and forgiveness. And the second step is separation - we can't be what we were before and be a new creature. We must forsake our old self and separate our actions from those before (2 Corinthians 6:17). As a result, our "old" friends will not normally accept such "new" behavior (Luke 6:22). While the challenge may seem daunting, when we "seek and intermeddleth" with Him, we are protected by a love greater than anything none on this earth! (Romans 8:37-39)
While we may not be wise or a great orator like Solomon, when we accept Christ's salvation and live our lives according to his will, we will be a separate and distinct witness of His love. What a better witness than each of us living a separate and distinct life for Christ?
