Posted:
Based on “Shine for God” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 7/4-5/09,
Message #2487; Daily Devotional #6 - “Salt and Light”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction):
"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 by men. You are the light of the world. A city 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 men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16)
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): So often we wonder why we were born, or what our purpose is in the earth. Yet these verses tell us exactly what we are here to do: be salt and light. As the children of God we are tasked with impacting the world for Jesus Christ. By the Holy Spirit’s power, we are the voice of reason and Truth in the earth. We are the "neon signs" that point to Christ and His invitation to holiness. By speaking out, praying, witnessing, and invading the darkness with God's Word, the Lord uses us to keep a "lid" on this pot of evil that continually threatens to boil over. We are Satan's worst nightmare and count it a privilege to be a thorn in his side for a change! One Truth that must remain steadfast in this battle is that the Name of Jesus Christ is above all names! No worldly government, state legislation, or national party can eradicate our Lord! His salt will always be salty, and His light will always remain bright. We must never think that the lies of our enemy will trump the Truth of God's Word! We have read the end of the Book and have discovered that we win! Satan is fighting a losing battle, but our victory is assured. One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:9-10)! How blessed we are to be counted among the faithful and to be allowed to shine forth His Light. Plus, it's always wonderful to be on the winning team!
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): These characteristics of Jesus that we carry in the earth are meant to preserve and light our world. Now that the Lord has established His Name and declared His victory, we are privileged to declare His Truth to the lost. As the peacemakers and the reconcilers, we are used by the Holy Spirit to mend, repair, forgive, expose, and restore. Just as the fresh salt air on the ocean's coast invigorates us and the soft lights of home comfort us and light the darkness, so are we as God's instruments. He has positioned each of us exactly where He needs us the most, and where our damage to the dark side can be the most effective. He has brought people into our lives that need to know Him personally, as well as folks who need to be discipled, mentored, and taught. He has supernaturally empowered us to stake His flag into the ground and take a stand for His cause. He has told us, "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." (Matthew 10:16) Equipped with His Spirit and His Word, we are more than conquerors and have been ordained as priests and kings for the cause of Christ (1 Peter 2:9). Thankfully, He is coming back for us soon, but in the meantime there is still much work to be done, and we are definitely up to the task! What are you here for? You are here for the glory of God, sweet saint!
Cultivating (Additional Reading): Exodus 34
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All Bible references are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.
