JUNE 4,  Matthew 5:13

Wherever Jesus went, great multitudes of people followed. It was during this early part of Jesus’ ministry, that He gave what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus teaches us that we must be as salt and light. Why? For today, let’s look at what salt was used for. Salt was used to preserve food and to add flavor. Have you tasted food cooked without salt? It’s really flat and tasteless. But with salt, the dish naturally becomes tasty! In the same way, the lives of those around us are really tasteless because they do not know God. Every day is an aimless routine, an empty chase of results and ambitions that will all pass away. How can you add flavor to their lives? By living differently. Live every day with a strong commitment to God, and with the knowledge of an eternity in heaven. People will see the difference and realise that their life is tasteless without God!

Salt was also used to preserve food like fish or meats. If not they would spoil and decay very quickly. When you live as the salt of the earth, you act as one who slows down the decay of sin around you. Our unsaved friends and loved ones have no reason not to sin. The world’s attractions and sinful lusts all beckon to them, and they follow this path that leads to destruction. When you do not go the same way as them, it makes them feel uncomfortable. For example, they may not swear, or tell dirty jokes when you are around, because they know you will not be happy. With your presence and influence, it slows down their sinful ways.

How did Jesus describe Christians who are no longer ‘salty’? Fill in the blanks below.

_____________ for nothing, to be __________ out, trodden under ___________ of men.

Have you been the salt of the earth, or have you lost your ‘saltiness’ to peer pressure? Before you finish today’s quiet time, think of one way you can be a positive influence for Christ.

Thought: Influence others for Christ!

Prayer: Father in heaven, help me to influence others for Christ. Grant me a heart of faith as I resolve to live differently from the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.