Salt of the earth

Salt of the earth

Scripture:

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

Matthew 5:13

Observation:

Continuing our journey along the Lord’s great Sermon of the Mount, we see the famous references to the followers of Jesus as the salt of the earth.

First, Jesus likens us to the salt of the earth. What are the main functions of salt? There are many, but three in particular stand out in application. Firstly is the use of salt for preservation. Just like salt preserves and prolongs the life of food, we too as followers of Jesus are meant to preserve God’s standard of righteousness in a fallen world. If we become like the world, what good are we? We need to maintain our distinctiveness for that is our calling.

Secondly, salt is used in healing. The healing properties of salt have been well known for ages. Almost everyone knows a great way to cure a sore throat is to gargle with salt water. We too as followers of Jesus are meant to be bringers of healing to the sick and fallen world around us.

Finally, salt brings taste. The pleasures of the world only satisfy for a short time, leaving behind a sad emptiness once they are gone. It is only in knowing the Lord that we can know lasting peace and fulfillment in life. O taste and see that the Lord is good! Those of us who have Christ with us, also bring taste to the fallen world, of whom many weary souls are attracted to us because of the Lord, who is with us.

Application:-

Remember that we are the salt of the earth. We are called to preserve righteousness wherever we go, in the workplace, at school, at home. We are also called to be healers. The Lord promised that certain signs would accompany those who believe. As we believe, we will lay our hands on the sick and bring the healing of God to many. Remember too that we also bring taste. Pray and strive to let our lives be fragrant offerings to God that we may bring good testimony to all around us by our godly conduct.

Prayer:

We praise You, Lord Jesus, for the great words that You teach us. Help us O Lord fulfill our purpose to be the salt of the earth. Help us preserve Your righteousness and teachings clearly in our lives. Empower us and give us more faith, that we might lay hands on the sick and bring healing according to Your word. Let Your Spirit dwell so deeply in us that we will be fragrant living sacrifices for Your sake, bringing the smell of life to the many who need You. Blessed be Your name O Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.