Living Victoriously
Read Matthew 5:13-16
“Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
As children of God, we receive eternal life when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Eternal life is defined as knowing God (John 17:3). Our spiritual maturity is measured by our willingness to forsake worldly pursuits and seek God's righteousness. These verses as opening remarks in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), emphasize the role of disciples as they embrace and live out the truth.
The Characteristics of Salt and Light
Salt in ancient time has two purposes: namely as preservatives to keep meat from rotting and as ingredient to add to the flavor of our food. When Jesus declared that His disciples must be the salt of the earth, He is declaring that as the truth is made known to them, they have the responsibility to preserve the truth that they received. Living by the Word of God, prevent our lives from being corrupted by the world.
Light is useful in darkness. It provides visibility and safe passage as bearing point for people seeking the way. Nothing can be hidden when there is light. Light is the Word of God that brings life to all (John 1:4).
Application – Being Salt and Light
When we put the salt and light together, our role as disciples become crystal clear. We have been entrusted with the truth, this truth has set me free from sins and slavery. I cannot just embrace truth within myself, I need to embrace truth as my character, living it up for others, encouraging people around us to seek the truth and be set free. The good works that we do, out of genuine love for others, will show others the transformational power of God.
Pray
Lord, help me to make your Word living and active in me. Let your Word provide a preservative power in my life. Let it not be corrupted, but let it be one that will spring forth stream of living water. We bless you, in Jesus Name.
Matthew 5:13 - 16
13 “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.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.