Throughout history, salt has been a highly valued commodity. It’s only in recent times – since the invention of the refrigerator and Wegman’s – that we use salt only for the purpose of seasoning. We no longer need salt to prevent our Five Guy’s hamburgers from spoiling. But we do need salt for those fries. But what does this have to do with being worth my weight in salt?
Matthew 5:13 also reminds us that we “are the salt of the earth.”
Does that mean that we’re supposed to flavor the world? Well, yes, but let’s back up and cover a few other meanings before that. In the Bible days, salt had many other uses in life that we are to still emulate in our own lives today.
3 Practical Ways To Be the Salt of the Earth
First up – preservation.
Without salt food would spoil very, very quickly before refrigeration.
It was a pretty simple method, the meat would be rinsed in water and then salt rubbed in to preserve it. Since moisture doesn’t do well with salt it keeps the meat from spoiling. Once ready to use the salt would be washed off.
In this way we too are to act as salt, by preserving those around us from “spoiling,” or in other words keep them from evil and corruption.
How? Teaching, and when necessary even admonishing.
We now live in a world of feelings. I feel this way about X and Y, therefore it must be true. I’m as guilty as the next.
However, instead of “affection” the word “love” has come to mean tolerance and complete acceptance – especially in relation to people’s lifestyles. If we affirm someone’s choices, we love them. If we disagree with them, we hate them.
This it not the truth, though.
If I had a friend with a drug addiction should I be afraid to stand up to them and speak the truth about their harmful choices? Would you be? Or should we just look the other way instead, so as not to offend them?
No and no. We would tell them what they were doing was wrong and we would try in to try to help them. That’s love.
Now that’s an extreme example but the principles still apply.
The fact is we need more truth-tellers in the world -more people willing to use their salt to preserve the lives of those around them.
But we’re afraid to stick up for our beliefs anymore because we’ll likely be called a hater, or bigot.
Meanwhile, we let what other people say affects our ability to spread truth into their lives and possibly pave the wave for the Holy Spirit to do His work. Someone needs to keep speaking truth to the world us it will be taken over by feelings and whims. Are you willing to use your salt to preserve people’s lives around you?
Second, salt heals.
“Like salt in a wound” is a statement meant to portray the sting one feels when salt is sprinkled on an open sore or wound.
But WHY is salt poured on wounds? Because salt forces liquids out of our skin, taking any bad bacteria with it. While the truth may be a little stinging first, it brings healing after.
So while it may be uncomfortable to speak truth into other people’s lives, we do so with the hope that God will bring healing through it.
Yes, family and friends may get mad at you, or avoid you for a while if you speak truth into their lives. Yes, it’s even possible to lose some friendships.
But let’s pretend your friend accidentally cut into his hand and the only thing you had around to stop it from getting infected was salt. You know it is going to hurt the person, but the alternative is far worse. So you pour salt on it. You brace yourself because you know they will squirm and even cry out in pain but also knowing that their life will be saved in the process as well.
Healing can also mean being a listening ear to someone going through a tough time or helping them seek much-needed treatment.
Not only do I encourage you not to be afraid to pour salt on others, but to allow others to pour salt on you as well. Accept admonishment and accept healing.
In 2 Kings 2:21 says “Then he (Elisha) went to the spring and threw salt into it saying, “This is what the Lord says, “I have healed this water. Never again will it cause death or make the land unproductive.”
This was Elisha’s first miracle after taking the reins from Elijah who went straight to heaven in that fiery chariot (What a way to go!) God used a prophet – and salt – to bring healing to a land.
Lastly, we use salt as seasoning.
Just the other day I made asparagus and after pulling them out of the oven I instantly knew they needed more salt. After a little sprinkle, they were perfect – because salt helped bring out the flavor in the asparagus.
We are not only to preserve those around us from falling into evil, to bring healing to their lives, but we are also bringing out their “flavor.”
To have a positive influence on people.
We are to be peacemakers.
To be mediators.
We are to love like Christ.
But – WARNING ALERT – we must make sure we have quality salt to start and must make sure we use it judiciously.
First, let’s talk about the QUALITY of our salt.
Matthew 5:13-16 “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.”
how would one lose their saltiness? By not walking with the Lord and instead, walking in our own wisdom. We can lose our salt by judging other people on principles not found in the Bible. And by being in discord with others around them. By being proud. I’m sure you can fill in a few more yourself…
Our salt is useless if we are not living a godly life ourselves.
Are we trying to pluck pieces of dirt out of other people’s eyes while knocking over the rest of the crowd with a plank in ours?
So examine yourself first before heading into the world to salt it.
Second, too much salt can be a detriment to those around us too.
Deuteronomy 29:23 “The whole land will be a burning waste of salt and sulfur – nothing planted, nothing sprouting, no vegetation growing on it. It will be like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboyim, which the Lord overthrew in fierce anger.”
Too much salt or salt where it shouldn’t literally prevent growth.
So while we aim to live salty lives we need to temper the saltshaker with wisdom and prudence and godly guidance.
What can dumping too much salt look like?
A Facebook rant meant to tear people of different beliefs down instead of building up would probably be a good example. We want to hit people over the heads with our Bible and holiness hoping it will knock some sense into them.
Hm, and when’s the last time that worked?
There is so much room for Christians to be more loving in our approaches to people – myself included. Instead of condemning certain groups of people we need to speak truth to them while simultaneously loving them.
Instead of condemning people for making what we view as a wrong choice, we need to come alongside them in their struggles and offer truth IN love.
I’d like to use this time to point out that though that we will only pour the right amount of salt without the Holy Spirit’s help and guidance. That’s the key that unlocks this whole saltiness thing.
The good news is the flip side is true too! If we continually walk with God, continually seek His counsel and wisdom then our salt will be quality, useful, and appealing to others.
Are you ready to be worth your weight in salt? I sure am.
If you liked this you might also enjoy: 5 Surprising Characteristics of a Peacemaker
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This is great. And I agree that sometimes, love IS truth telling, even if it stings. God does that aplenty for us in the scriptures. He loves us enough to correct us, like a loving parent.
This was thought provoking. I enjoyed it…have a great day!
This is a truly great post. At service about a month ago, the pastor had said we need to speak in love and truth and it has been an ongoing motto in our home. It’s all about trying to find that perfect amount of salt; not too little that life’s bland, but not too much that it’s spoiled.
Megan – exactly! The right amount and kind of salt. 🙂
I have never thought about how salt can be related to our relationships with others. I really enjoyed all of these examples, and you gave me a lot to think about! Thank you, Sarah Jean!
That was so interesting reading. I have never thought this ”connection” between salt and relationships. Wonderful post, well done!
I love this Sarah! Looking at things in this light definitely puts it all into perspective. Great post!
Thank you, Cara! I appreciate it.
This was a great read – very thorough and I enjoyed the metaphors for bringing more mindfulness into each day <3
-Clarissa @ The View From Here
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this post! Especially this, “We are not only to preserve those around us from falling into evil, to bring healing to their lives, but we are also bring out their “flavor.”
We are to have a positive influence on people.”
You brought this concept to life so well and I am thankful for your wisdom about it!
Thank you for your kind words, Kristin!
Great read and a very unique point of view. Keep up the amazing work!
This is such a great post! I love telling people they are the salt of the earth as a compliment.
xx katie // a touch of teal
I might start using that compliment too – love it!
Very thought provoking!
Great analogically rich blog post! I live my life with this; “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” and teach my kids this too not only through stating but, emulation. Thank you for the wonderful read!
What a beautifully written and well thought out post Sarah. You’ve given me so much to think about here. Thank you.
What a thought provoking post! Thanks for sharing xo, sharon
http://www.stylelullaby.com/lifestyle/sweetspot-labs-freshening-up-2017/
This is a great post. A thought provoking post. Thank you for writing this. xx
Love this! We always hear that we are to be the “salt of the earth” but it’s so nice to be able to dig into that concept some more!
I love this so much and I’m sending it to my 17 year old. This week we had a conversation about what the meaning behind “salt of the earth” was – we couldn’t quite narrow it down so she decided that we’re supposed to be the salt that makes others thirsty for the Lord. I know she’ll enjoy reading this.
Oooh Brandy I wish I had thought of that and put that in! Making others thirsty for the Lord is an awesome point!
This is so deep! I love hearing about all the different uses of salt! We have so much to strive for, but thankfully, God’s grace is so good to us!
Oh, telling the truth is so hard sometimes. I’ve struggled with this in the past, especially after facing some disapproval and criticism from people I love. But I felt better about myself, despite the conflict, and like you mention, Christ calls us to be the salt of the earth. Loved this reminder today! <3
Yes. Yes. Yes. YES! Love this Sarah!!
Wow! I’ve never thought about all the other meanings and applications for salt! Great article! Thanks
I thought, what could this post about? And then I understand. Thank you for this beautiful article.
Wow, what a very interesting read! I need to ponder on this. I like your evaluation of the pros and cons of “salt” in our life and especially applying it spiritually. Thank you!
xo Debbie | http://www.tothineownstylebetrue.com
Thank you for reading, Debbie!
Very insightful, clever post. 🙂 Had never really looked at salt that way. Love the comparisons you drew. Looking forward to looking around your blog and getting to know you better!
That’s so kind Krista – thank you!
I just love your analogies and it’s so true! Very encouraging too!
I’ve always heard the salt of earth phrase, but never really thought much about it until now. This was an interesting read. I love the idea of preserving and bring out the flavor of those around us.
I love this so much! My brother has a salt of the Earth tattoo for these reasons. Such a great reminder of how I should be living my life.
Jessica – that is very cool!
Sarah, this is a brilliant post. I love analogies that help me clearly see the point behind the premise, and this is it! I agree with all of it, today it is hard to gently guide without feeling like you have hurt someone. I work to guide my kids as well as I can using the Bible and it’s words. Using verses and stories to help them understand the area of concern. Not only has this helped me to comprehend this topic better it will help me explain things to them too. Thanks.
Thank you so much for you kind words, Nikki! It really helped me figure out how I want to live my life.