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We think of salt as seasoning, and also a melting and water-softening agent. But until recent times, its primary use was to preserve. That made it a metaphor for permanence. The term translated "everlasting covenant" in Numbers 18:19 and 2 Chronicles 13:5, is literally "covenant of salt." "Season all your grain offerings with salt," God told his chosen people (in Leviticus 2:13), "to remind you of God's eternal covenant."

Matthew 5:13-16

1. What is the value of seasoning that has no flavor? What is implied here about the value of Christians who make no effort to affect the world around them?
   
   
2. What are some ways Christians can affect their society positively, bringing out its best flavor?
   
   
3. What warning does Jesus' remark about flavorless salt being thrown out carry for Christians who simply blend in with their culture?
   
   
4. What qualities of Jesus' disciples make them a source of light in their communities?
   
   
5. What are some ways in which Christians hide their light?
   
   
6. How can our good deeds lead not to smugness but to praise for our heavenly Father?
   
   

Ask God for courage to stand out from the crowd coupled with a selfless caring that makes the faith you live attractively compelling.

Matthew 5:13-16

13 You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.

14 You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Copyright © 2009 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Since you've called me to be salt and light, I'm not free to just blend in. Empower me to make a positive impact where you've placed me.

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