February 13, 2008

Retaining The Quality!

As Jesus addressed the concept of the impact and influence we can have in and on the lives of others, among the analogies He used were the characteristics of salt and light. ( Matthew 5:13-16) Most often, when I have considered His teaching regarding us being salt, my focus has rested on the various ways in which salt has its usefulness: add flavor, bring healing, preserve, etc. However, is that the only thing to consider from our Lord’s teaching? Perhaps as we have considered the ways in which we are to BE THE SALT of the earth we have overlooked the question Jesus asked.

Jesus exhorted…
“You are the salt of the earth, BUT IF SALT HAS LOST ITS TASTE, HOW SHALL ITS SALTINESS BE RESTORED? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.” ( Matthew 5:13 ESV)

Not only should we take to heart the various ways in which our spiritual saltiness can influence others, but we need to note Jesus’ question as well. The warning implies the possibility of losing the quality that influences. What good is the life then? What benefit would we be? Could our life not also be described as being “no longer good for anything”? Though salt’s saltiness may not be restored once it is lost, praise God He is able to renew His intended qualities back into our life as we turn to Him in genuine repentance. Nevertheless, we must still take the warning to heart, acknowledging such a point of completely losing our salty influence could be reached if we are not careful. That means we ought to always strive to maintain the qualities of Christianity the Lord has called us to possess so that we may carry on the godly impact and influence this world so desperately needs. Jesus said, “You are the salt.” Let us continue to BE THE SALT to His glory and the benefit of those around us!

Have a great day SUSTAINING OUR SALTY SAVOR!
Carl

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Posted by Carl Hanson at February 13, 2008 5:28 AM | TrackBack