B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 85
December 12, 2010
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, 2010
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, 2010
Precious Memories
The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.
Proverbs 10:7
On 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
On 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.
December 9, 2010
The Wise Men
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning
Proverbs 9:9
Since it is the Christmas Season and Solomon was speaking of the wise, I thought I would review the wise men who witnessed the birth of our saviour. Of interest, it is only discussed in Matthew 2 and the number three is not addressed except in the types of gifts they brought.
More importantly, was the action of the Magi when they saw the child. Matthew 2:11 states - And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.
Are we as wise as the Magi? Do we fall down and worship him or casually think of him during our church's Christmas presentation? Do we give him our most valuable gifts or simply what is left over in our wallet? When we exchange gifts at Christmas, we prefer our gifts to be close in value. How does your gift compare to that of your Savior? What do you treasure most in your life? Would you be willing to exchange it for the gift of eternal life?
We have been instructed on the proper response to our savior by the Wise Men. We can only become wiser if we heed the instructions. Take time this Christmas to exchange gifts with the One who loves you most. It isn't how much it costs that matters, but rather how much you treasure your gift to your Savior.
Proverbs 9:9
Since it is the Christmas Season and Solomon was speaking of the wise, I thought I would review the wise men who witnessed the birth of our saviour. Of interest, it is only discussed in Matthew 2 and the number three is not addressed except in the types of gifts they brought.
More importantly, was the action of the Magi when they saw the child. Matthew 2:11 states - And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.
Are we as wise as the Magi? Do we fall down and worship him or casually think of him during our church's Christmas presentation? Do we give him our most valuable gifts or simply what is left over in our wallet? When we exchange gifts at Christmas, we prefer our gifts to be close in value. How does your gift compare to that of your Savior? What do you treasure most in your life? Would you be willing to exchange it for the gift of eternal life?
We have been instructed on the proper response to our savior by the Wise Men. We can only become wiser if we heed the instructions. Take time this Christmas to exchange gifts with the One who loves you most. It isn't how much it costs that matters, but rather how much you treasure your gift to your Savior.
December 8, 2010
Love In Action
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
Proverbs 8:17
As a young man, I felt sure that I had fully mastered the art of love. Boy, was I wrong! Likewise, I thought I understood the simple concept of the verse above. However, further reading of Christ's teachings show that I still have much to learn about the verse as well.
Jesus talks of love in a different perspective in John 14:21 and John 14:23. Love is more than just emotions but actions manifested by our demonstrating our willingness to follow his commandments. Jesus stresses that it is more than just knowing his commandments but keeping them as well. It reminds me of the old phrase that "action speaks louder than words". While we may be able to quote the Ten Commandments, do we follow them?
Easier said than done? Yes, by ourselves. But look closely at both verses in John 14. Jesus recognizes the limitations of our own abilities and promises to manifest himself to us. More importantly, in verse 23 Jesus promises that both He and His Father will abide with us. Our commitment to action coupled with the presence of the Holy Trinity within us gives us the strength to overcome any worldly challenge to keeping His commandments.
Demonstrate your love today by taking the first step to follow his commandments. His presence and support will result in a love manifested within you that is beyond compare!
Proverbs 8:17
As a young man, I felt sure that I had fully mastered the art of love. Boy, was I wrong! Likewise, I thought I understood the simple concept of the verse above. However, further reading of Christ's teachings show that I still have much to learn about the verse as well.
Jesus talks of love in a different perspective in John 14:21 and John 14:23. Love is more than just emotions but actions manifested by our demonstrating our willingness to follow his commandments. Jesus stresses that it is more than just knowing his commandments but keeping them as well. It reminds me of the old phrase that "action speaks louder than words". While we may be able to quote the Ten Commandments, do we follow them?
Easier said than done? Yes, by ourselves. But look closely at both verses in John 14. Jesus recognizes the limitations of our own abilities and promises to manifest himself to us. More importantly, in verse 23 Jesus promises that both He and His Father will abide with us. Our commitment to action coupled with the presence of the Holy Trinity within us gives us the strength to overcome any worldly challenge to keeping His commandments.
Demonstrate your love today by taking the first step to follow his commandments. His presence and support will result in a love manifested within you that is beyond compare!
December 7, 2010
Teacher's Pet
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
Proverbs 7:2
When I was going to school, the common joke was those who brought an apple to the teacher were striving to become the teacher's pet. While the teacher did not amass a pile of apples on her desk each day, there were a few of my classmates that brought goodies and gifts on a frequent basis to ensure a higher status in the classroom. The rest of us envied the benefits of such gift-giving. These were the same students who could never do wrong and were given the benefit of doubt on any marginal test answer. At times, the open admiration of the teacher was almost repulsive to the rest of us "hoodlums" that openly disdained such fawning but secretly wished we could enjoy the benefits of a personal relationship with our teachers. There was no debating the fact that certain students were pets or favored in the classroom. But in reality, they should have been - for they strove to seek the approval of the teacher vice openly demonstrating rebellion.
And we should have the same relationship with God's commandments, as described above by Solomon. When we clearly strive to please God by following his commandments, we will garner His love and support. In a world as troubling as today, what a better relationship to have than to be labeled as the Teacher's Pet. The Teacher created this world, taught us how to follow his commandments and gave us the opportunity to choose if we will follow him. Let the bully's sneer and others envy our relationship with The Teacher for we know that in Him is eternal life!
Proverbs 7:2
When I was going to school, the common joke was those who brought an apple to the teacher were striving to become the teacher's pet. While the teacher did not amass a pile of apples on her desk each day, there were a few of my classmates that brought goodies and gifts on a frequent basis to ensure a higher status in the classroom. The rest of us envied the benefits of such gift-giving. These were the same students who could never do wrong and were given the benefit of doubt on any marginal test answer. At times, the open admiration of the teacher was almost repulsive to the rest of us "hoodlums" that openly disdained such fawning but secretly wished we could enjoy the benefits of a personal relationship with our teachers. There was no debating the fact that certain students were pets or favored in the classroom. But in reality, they should have been - for they strove to seek the approval of the teacher vice openly demonstrating rebellion.
And we should have the same relationship with God's commandments, as described above by Solomon. When we clearly strive to please God by following his commandments, we will garner His love and support. In a world as troubling as today, what a better relationship to have than to be labeled as the Teacher's Pet. The Teacher created this world, taught us how to follow his commandments and gave us the opportunity to choose if we will follow him. Let the bully's sneer and others envy our relationship with The Teacher for we know that in Him is eternal life!
December 6, 2010
A Burning Issue
Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? Proverbs 6:27-28
Solomon poses "burning" questions in the verses above regarding lust in the heart. While the questions are simply answered, the concept of lust is not so easily accepted. Irregardless of the object: a woman, a bass boat or other worldly items, the results are the same. We can not have sin in our heart and not suffer the consequences. We clearly understand the consequences of getting burned physically from his scenarios above but do we practically apply the same principle to our heart? David's lust for Bathsheba cost both of them an enormous price physically, emotionally and spiritually.
So are the price of our lusts. It may start simply as noticing the attraction of another person or thing but will quickly grow out of control. Much like a fire consumes all fuel around it, lust will consume all of the peace within our heart. There is no way for it to co-exist with christian virtues within our heart. The simple but not easy solution is for us to prevent the occurrence.
We are all tempted - even Jesus was tempted by the devil (Luke 4:1-13). And it never ends, as shown in verse 13. Sometimes the attraction may be stronger than our abilities but not beyond the strength of the One who lives within us. Don't get burned by temptation but quench it with the power of Christ.
Solomon poses "burning" questions in the verses above regarding lust in the heart. While the questions are simply answered, the concept of lust is not so easily accepted. Irregardless of the object: a woman, a bass boat or other worldly items, the results are the same. We can not have sin in our heart and not suffer the consequences. We clearly understand the consequences of getting burned physically from his scenarios above but do we practically apply the same principle to our heart? David's lust for Bathsheba cost both of them an enormous price physically, emotionally and spiritually.
So are the price of our lusts. It may start simply as noticing the attraction of another person or thing but will quickly grow out of control. Much like a fire consumes all fuel around it, lust will consume all of the peace within our heart. There is no way for it to co-exist with christian virtues within our heart. The simple but not easy solution is for us to prevent the occurrence.
We are all tempted - even Jesus was tempted by the devil (Luke 4:1-13). And it never ends, as shown in verse 13. Sometimes the attraction may be stronger than our abilities but not beyond the strength of the One who lives within us. Don't get burned by temptation but quench it with the power of Christ.
December 5, 2010
All Tied Up
His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.
Proverbs 5:22
Solomon provides a graphical depiction of how we are tied up by of our sins. It reminds me of the old westerns where the heroine was tied to the railroad track with the old locomotive bearing down feverishly blowing the whistle. At the very last moment, the hero, wearing a white hat, swoops in at the very last moment to save the heroine. Afterwards, the heroine dreamily hugs the hero in appreciation.
Do we feel the same about our salvation? We are bound by our sins until we accept the gift of life by our Savior. Do we share the same grateful appreciation for our new life? As we go through the daily routine of life, we tend to forget the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. As we celebrate His birth, let's remember the purpose of his birth - to break us free from the bonds of our sins. Take time to thank the giver of the ultimate gift this season - our freedom from sin!
Proverbs 5:22
Solomon provides a graphical depiction of how we are tied up by of our sins. It reminds me of the old westerns where the heroine was tied to the railroad track with the old locomotive bearing down feverishly blowing the whistle. At the very last moment, the hero, wearing a white hat, swoops in at the very last moment to save the heroine. Afterwards, the heroine dreamily hugs the hero in appreciation.
Do we feel the same about our salvation? We are bound by our sins until we accept the gift of life by our Savior. Do we share the same grateful appreciation for our new life? As we go through the daily routine of life, we tend to forget the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. As we celebrate His birth, let's remember the purpose of his birth - to break us free from the bonds of our sins. Take time to thank the giver of the ultimate gift this season - our freedom from sin!
December 4, 2010
A Broken Heart
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Proverbs 4:23
A broken heart is almost unbearable. You feel sickened as if someone has wretched a knife through your chest. It is difficult to breathe and your appetite is gone. Truly a miserable place to be.
While the holiday season clamors around us, there are those who are among us with a broken heart. While they may try to hide their emptiness, they can not rid themselves of the gut wretching pain they face daily. Whether it is due to the loss of a loved one by death, divorce or other enticements, they can not share the holiday mood due to the vast sense of loss within.
Solomon cautions us to guard our heart. And we should be very careful with whom or what we share our heart. We must be judicious in the sharing of such a valuable treasure. But even with such caution, we still suffer loss at one time or another. And the pain is unbearable. David reminds us in Psalms 34:18 - The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. What a comfort to know there is someone who know our sense of loss - didn't he watch His son die on the cross for our sins? And He is always available to listen to our sorrows. While the pain may not be completely gone, I experience relief when I share my sorrow with my Master.
Shouldn't we mirror our Savior's love to others? What a better time of the year to share something other than brightly wrapped gifts - our time and compassion with those of a broken heart. Simply stop the hectic pace and allow them to share can such a wonderful blessing! The financial cost is cheap but the rewards can be everlasting!
Proverbs 4:23
A broken heart is almost unbearable. You feel sickened as if someone has wretched a knife through your chest. It is difficult to breathe and your appetite is gone. Truly a miserable place to be.
While the holiday season clamors around us, there are those who are among us with a broken heart. While they may try to hide their emptiness, they can not rid themselves of the gut wretching pain they face daily. Whether it is due to the loss of a loved one by death, divorce or other enticements, they can not share the holiday mood due to the vast sense of loss within.
Solomon cautions us to guard our heart. And we should be very careful with whom or what we share our heart. We must be judicious in the sharing of such a valuable treasure. But even with such caution, we still suffer loss at one time or another. And the pain is unbearable. David reminds us in Psalms 34:18 - The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. What a comfort to know there is someone who know our sense of loss - didn't he watch His son die on the cross for our sins? And He is always available to listen to our sorrows. While the pain may not be completely gone, I experience relief when I share my sorrow with my Master.
Shouldn't we mirror our Savior's love to others? What a better time of the year to share something other than brightly wrapped gifts - our time and compassion with those of a broken heart. Simply stop the hectic pace and allow them to share can such a wonderful blessing! The financial cost is cheap but the rewards can be everlasting!
December 3, 2010
The Perfect Christmas Present
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.
Proverbs 3:13
As the holiday rush settles in, we are continuously plagued with finding "the perfect gift" for everyone. Will they like it? Will it fit? Did we forget someone? The questions seem to never end as we stress over making sure everyone on our list has a wonderful gift.
Solomon defines the perfect gift and the results above - happiness is assured to those who find wisdom and understanding. He values it above silver and gold in the following verse. Luckily, there is no price tag, no size or weight restrictions and the inventory is endless. But there is a cost - we must put forth the effort to seek God. It can't be purchased on-line or in a department store - God has the monopoly on the inventory. Yet, he is willing to freely share it with those who seek Him.
What a better gift to give someone you love than the experience of them getting to know Jesus as their personal savior? Share his love and elevate his message above the commercial themes. If you really want to celebrate the season in a way like never before, celebrate it with someone who has just found their Savior!
Proverbs 3:13
As the holiday rush settles in, we are continuously plagued with finding "the perfect gift" for everyone. Will they like it? Will it fit? Did we forget someone? The questions seem to never end as we stress over making sure everyone on our list has a wonderful gift.
Solomon defines the perfect gift and the results above - happiness is assured to those who find wisdom and understanding. He values it above silver and gold in the following verse. Luckily, there is no price tag, no size or weight restrictions and the inventory is endless. But there is a cost - we must put forth the effort to seek God. It can't be purchased on-line or in a department store - God has the monopoly on the inventory. Yet, he is willing to freely share it with those who seek Him.
What a better gift to give someone you love than the experience of them getting to know Jesus as their personal savior? Share his love and elevate his message above the commercial themes. If you really want to celebrate the season in a way like never before, celebrate it with someone who has just found their Savior!
