YOU ARE HERE TO BE THE SALT-SEASONING THAT BRINGS GOD-FLAVORS TO THIS EARTH… Matt 5:13 THE MESSAGE
THE MESSAGE: Matthew 5:13-16
In Your Bible: Matthew 5:13-16
Have you wondered, “Why am I here?” We’ve all thought that in times of questioning, loneliness, trouble, or despair. It’s not a new question!
In the first part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks to the disciples and the crowd. He’s just completed lessons on how to act to be blessed by God. Then he continues with profound directives on how to live with a purpose, using salt and light as vivid examples.
Salt
WHY ARE YOU HERE?
Jesus speaks right to this question, “Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors to this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness?” (THE MESSAGE Matthew 5:13)
He says we should live our lives so people can taste and see godliness in mankind. Wow, Jesus wants believers to be examples, not one flavor but many. Diversity is encouraged but the focus remains a God lifestyle….Kingdom lifestyle….serving God’s purpose.
Diversity of Light
ILLUMINATE–EVERYWHERE
Jesus encourages believers to live out their devotion to God. You are that illuminating light. Let your light shine everywhere you go, that you may illumine creation, so men and women everywhere may see your good actions, may see creation at its fullest, may see your devotion to Me, and may turn and praise your Father in heaven because of it. Matthew 5:16 (The Voice Bible version)
Here is a short list of how to let your light shine:
* Be morally excellent
* Be generous
* Be hospitable
* Do honor and praise the Father
* Don’t keep God a secret
People watch believers–actions speak louder than words.
Application: This is why we are here. Jesus showed us through his compelling words, actions, and compassion that we have a purpose on earth. Be generous with your life, resources, and time. Jesus was.
Prayer: Father, I want to show people who you are……you are not a secret. Let your love shine through me for others to see and then seek you.
Photo-Salt courtesy of Carlos Porto FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Photo-Light Bulb courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net
