Matthew 5:13-16, New International Version

“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. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Life can be, at times, difficult and discouraging. Perhaps we think about how we can’t go on anymore; we have the urge to give in and quit. We can get tired because everything just seems like it is too much. But my friends, I want to encourage you with the words that come from the mouth and heart of our Savior to keep going!

In Matthew 5:13 (NIV) Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?” Jesus is calling us to be the Salt of the earth. But if we quit because it becomes too much, how would we be good for anything? I don’t think it is coincidence that these words came from Jesus right after He taught the people the Beatitudes.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 5:3, NIV)

We must recognize our need for God. There is something empty within us that needs filled. The only thing that can fill that place is Jesus.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4, NIV)

Some relationships may come to an end because of differences or what not. These things are bound to happen when we follow Christ because not everyone is ready at once to follow Christ. We grieve, we mourn what we have lost, and the Lord will comfort.

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5, NIV) 

We are not able to do everything in our own strength. If we surrender to Christ, He will be our strength when we are weak, which will be exemplified in our lives through our walk with Him.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6, NIV)

Don’t stop hungering and thirsting for truth. It is the truth that sets us free! Jesus is the truth, the way, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him.  Surrender to Christ, and He will fill you!

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (Matthew 5:7, NIV) 

Everyone needs compassion. Growing up, my mother taught me to treat others as you want to be treated. Even Jesus said, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12, NIV) If you want mercy and compassion, you must give mercy and compassion.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8, NIV) 

When Jesus first started His ministry on earth, He said, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is near.” (Matthew 4:17) We must repent from our sins and turn to God! He is the only answer to all of life’s problems. The blood of Jesus will cleanse us of all unrighteousness, making us pure and holy.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NIV)

Peacemakers share the word of God knowing the power it has in any situation— that it will bring the freedom, healing, and salvation that is needed.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10, NIV) 

Trials will come; life will be hard at times. Nobody gets away from this unscathed.  But we do have a Savior that is with us always. Through every experience, every situation, He is with us. We are not alone. He told us, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20, NIV)

All of these things Jesus taught us in the Beatitudes produce salt…they produce light.

“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. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16, NIV)

Don’t let the enemy steal your saltiness. Don’t let him snuff out your light! When things get tough, call on Jesus. Remember He said, blessed are those who are poor in spirit. We recognize our need for Him. We reach out to Him, and He will be our ever-present help in time of need. Thank you, Jesus!