Living Out Our Faith: Being Salt and Light
Introduction
As believers, we’re called to live out our faith in a way that positively impacts those around us. Yeshua taught us that we’re meant to be salt and light in this world (Matthew 5:13-16). But what does it mean to be salt and light, and how can we practically apply these principles in our daily lives?
Scriptural Perspective
Matthew 5:13-14
“Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost its savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world.”
Matthew 5:15-16
“Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Practical Application
1. Be a Positive Influence in Your Community
Yeshua demonstrated the importance of serving others through His actions. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and comforted the sorrowful. In our own lives, we can look for opportunities to serve others, volunteer, or simply be a good neighbor. This can be as simple as offering a helping hand, providing a meal, or listening to someone who needs to talk.
Example from Yeshua’s Life: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) teaches us to show compassion and mercy to those in need, regardless of who they are.
2. Live Out Your Values
As Christians, we’re called to live according to biblical principles. Make sure you’re living out what you say you believe in your daily life. This includes being honest, showing kindness, and practicing forgiveness. Yeshua’s life was a perfect example of integrity and love.
Example from Yeshua’s Life: In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Yeshua taught about living a life that reflects God’s values, emphasizing love, humility, and righteousness.
3. Be Willing to Take Risks
Being salt and light means being willing to step outside our comfort zones and take calculated risks for the sake of spreading the gospel or serving others. Yeshua often stepped into challenging situations to bring hope and healing. We too must be brave in our faith, whether it’s sharing the gospel with a stranger, standing up for justice, or making sacrifices for the sake of others.
Example from Yeshua’s Life: Yeshua’s interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26) shows His willingness to break cultural norms to share the message of salvation.
Conclusion
Living out our faith as salt and light requires intentional effort and a willingness to be different from the world around us. But when we do, we can have a profound impact on those around us and bring glory to Yehovah. Remember that being salt and light is not just about doing good things; it’s also about being a positive influence in your community and living out what you say you believe. By following Yeshua’s example, we can illuminate the world with His love and truth.
