relationships (Matthew 5:14-16) Share the Light

(Matthew 5:14-16)

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; 15 nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

We've all heard the phrase about specific people being able to "light up a room" as soon as they enter.  As well, celebrities are referred to as "stars".  Well, these verses do not refer to either of those, especially because it is all about those people and their personal abilities and popularity.  All the accolades, compliments and glory goes to them, and to them alone.

Obviously, in these verses, "light" is used as an allegory or illustration.  Physical light is a brightness that is emitted from a source of energy, either from a lamp, or fire, or it is a light that is reflecting a source of light.  Just so, as believers, we are to reflect God's light that is within us.  Also, just as light overtakes the darkness, salvation and life in Christ has victory over sin, death and darkness.

The only source of spiritual light is the Lord God - who is light!  God's light is pure and brilliant and overcomes the darkness!  His light gently exposes sin, enlightens hearts and minds with truth and its knowledge, which - when accepted into one's heart, soul and life - embeds God's spiritual purity.

Because it is all about having a personal relationship with the Lord, we should desire to follow Him closely because of His love, and because we have chosen to love Him back.  In that moment of being born again, we receive His indwelling Holy Spirit, so that for all eternity He is right there with us to continue lighting our way.  

Since we have God's light within us, we should not be hiding this relationship, or be afraid to share.  Just like having the coolest, nicest friend, whom we love to introduce to others, we should be more than eager to introduce the Lord to all those around us as we have the opportunity.  And as we live in such a way that shines out God's love, there will be people who will notice and ask about it.  And since God is omnipresent, it's not like we can keep Him all to ourselves!  He is everywhere!  Therefore, as we help to illuminate God's truths, people's spiritual eyes can be opened to see and meet Him.

No need to worry.  God will give us the courage, strength and guidance in how we can be effective in shining His light out to the world.  He will continue to enlighten us with His moral and spiritual truth and guidance.  He will light the way for us.  Although, it is still up to us to be obedient and follow where He leads and directs!  In this obedience, we will be like a light on a lampstand so that others can witness how God is working in our lives, and see God's love, truth and His righteous path.  In this obedience, we will be accomplishing good works that glorify the Lord!

relationships (Matthew 5:13) Being Effective in Adding Value

(Matthew 5:13)

13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by people.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

I'm very curious to learn how this will apply to our relationships, with the Lord and/or with others.  So, looking at the definition for "salt":

• it is used to season food, to add flavor
• therefore it was also used to sprinkle onto people's sacrifices.
• it protects food, because it purifies and preserves food, so it will not change
• therefore it is a symbol of lasting accord.
• therefore it was and is used in Asian customs to partake together
• therefore it signifies wisdom and grace exhibited in speech
• THEREFORE: "salt" in this verse is figurative for prudence.

In the sense of salt becoming tasteless, it then would not serve any purpose.  Putting all of this information into context, this would be another way to describe foolishness.  Culturally, the joke was - IF - real salt could lose its saltiness, how can one restore its salty flavor - except to salt it.  

Scientifically, adding real salt doesn't change fake salt, because it was never real salt to begin with.  Now, real salt can SEEM to lose its flavor only because of impurities, additives and/or moisture.  In other words, the real salt is still there, but the things that have been added to it, has dummied down its effectiveness.  The more additives, the less effective.

Now, how does this apply to us and our relationships?  All of us start life as fake, flavorless, worthless salt, therefore hopeless and without purpose.  But with God, all things are possible.  So, when we repent of our sins, and ask Jesus to forgive us and come into our life, He chooses to no longer remember our sins, and He covers us with His righteousness, which purifies us!  And with His indwelling Holy Spirit, He changes us from the inside out, which seasons us with His loving and holy qualities.  He protects and preserves us for all eternity.  He gives us purpose, and with His guidance we gain His wisdom and grace.  And as we walk with, trust in, and rely on Him, He helps us to be prudent, and helps us love others with His love, which is everlasting, unchanging, unconditional and sacrificial!.

Now, just like real salt cannot lose its flavor, a true believer cannot lose their salvation or their purpose.  But just like real salt can appear to lose its flavor, we too can and will stumble and add impurities to our lives.  The more we sin, the less effective we become to the Lord and His kingdom.  

Therefore, so that we can maintain our flavor and value in God's purpose that He has given us, we are to confess our sins as soon as we realize them.  For us to be flavorful and valuable to others, we must embrace our relationship with the Lord, learn from Him, and be equipped by Him, who is our source of all things good!!!  Our prudence, wisdom and grace will be the evidence of our relationship with God.  Another way to put it is, in order to be more godlike, we must grow closer to God!!!

relationships (Matthew 5:10-11) Good and Bad Reasons

(Matthew 5:10-11)

10 “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

There will be an array of reactions to these verses.  I know for myself, there was a time I really didn't appreciate hearing this.  I mean, who wants to be persecuted!?  Yet, in life, for various reasons, many people are picked on, bullied and insulted, and unfairly and unjustly imprisoned, tortured and killed... We live in an unfair, unjust, fallen and broken world that is full of pride, greed, hate and fear!

Another reaction to these verses will be one of unwarranted pride, where a person uses some level of persecution as a badge of honor, in some self-proclaimed proof and justification that what they are doing or saying is truth, right and good.  I will use Mormons as an example, because they do teach their members that if they are persecuted, that only means they are on the right track (even though they are not). 

In general, people are persecuted for various reasons.  One of the reasons is that people do not like to be preached at.  It doesn't even matter what the message is, be it true or false, political opinions, idealisms or propaganda, cult or religious proclamations, or just some personal preferences of someone who is incessantly pressing to get their way.

Reactions will vary.  Some people will react by simply walking away, or changing the channel, although it can lead to groups censoring, "canceling", "silent quitting", black-listing or boycotting.  Some will speak out, or debate, while remaining calm and trying to use reason, until they perhaps become "impassioned" and it turns into a yelling-fest.  Some argue, and even resort to mocking, lying, and name calling.  While others will become enraged and use violence.

This leads to yet another reason why people will be persecuted.  And it's a reason that people wouldn't want to hear, which is to be persecuted because they are jerks and deserve it, even though they think they don't.  And I'll add in here those people who say they are Christians, but are not representing the Lord well;  maybe in just one given situation, or it's their preferred method of being in this world.  One pastor put it another way, "People will hate us just because we are Christians, don't give them more excuses to hate you by being a jerk!"

This brings us to the focus of what these verses are actually talking about.  There will be people who hate us just because we are Christians.  Even if we are just going about our lives, and living out God's will.  I'll use my husband as an example.  When he's at work, he is working unto the Lord!  Focused and intent on doing what is expected, and doing the best that he possibly can.  And at one company, it didn't take long for the coworkers to start referring to him as "Pastor Len", even though he had not said anything about his faith (yet, at that point).  So, how did they know?

There is a saying, attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, "Preach the gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words."  Now, the Bible doesn't exactly say this.  We are told to live in obedience in God's will, and in God's strength, which will be evidence of our faith.  But we are also told to use every opportunity to share the gospel!  Now, it does come down to HOW we are sharing God's word and His message of salvation.  Everything we do and say should always be in God's love, and with His love, wisdom and guidance.  While there will be people drawn to us just to hear about Jesus, there will be those who hate us for it, because they hate Jesus.

Here's the summary and the difference!  Sometimes people are persecuted just because they are suffering the consequences of other people's bad actions.  Sometimes people are persecuted because they are suffering the consequences of their own bad actions.  But when believers are persecuted because of God, God is going to bless and reward those who are faithful in being obedient to His will, practicing His righteousness, and speaking His truth.  Even in the midst of persecution, in staying focused on our relationship with the Lord, we can be confident that He will help us, and work things out for good.

relationships (Matthew 5:9) Peacemaking God's Way

(Matthew 5:9)

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

There are a few points to this message.  The obvious one is that we should not be agitators or instigators, and not be violent, contentious, contrary or critical, although that doesn't mean we are to approve of sin.  But look, even if we claim that we have sincere love and concern, we cannot tell people who are NOT believers, that they HAVE to live and behave as believers.  God doesn't even do this.  Especially because true, biblical Christianity is not about do's and don'ts, but having a loving, personal relationship with the Lord.  What we can do, with God's guidance, is share God's love, truth and salvation message, because He has a much better way for us!

In the same way then, pointing at people or getting in their face to tell them that they ARE going to hell - because... - is something we should not do - BECAUSE - it is something we cannot do!!!  We are not the judge and jury.  We do not know what is in a person's heart and mind.  We need to look at the logs in our own eyes!  Because, even Christians will often choose to drift away from God and live in sin, yet, because of God's grace, they are not going to hell.  So, not only is that tactic very wrong, it is the opposite of peacemaking!  What we can do, with God's wisdom and guidance, is share God's truths, the good news, and how God has worked and is working in our life!

Think about it.  Trying to debate, argue or convince someone into God's kingdom, will not be received well at all.  This again would be trying to take the place of God, since it is only His Holy Spirit who convicts the hearts of people!  And that is not how God wants us to share His gospel message of truth, hope, peace and love.  Now, this verse isn't talking about sharing the gospel with others.  It is merely telling us that we are to be peacemakers.  No matter what God tells us to do, though, everything is to be done in His agape love (which is unconditional and sacrificial).

Because God is love, He created us with free will.  What is free will if we do not have choices?  And what are choices if we do not have freedom to act upon them?  Therefore, God never forces anyone to love Him back.  And once a person decides to love God and put their faith in Him, He doesn't even force His own children to be obedient!  Of course, He desires that all come to know Him in a real and personal way, and of course, He desires that His children love and trust Him enough to accept and apply all of His omniscient advice (obeying His commandments).

The summary of God's commandments is to love Him, and then love others.  And then, when we run into issues with others, or others come to us to help resolve a situation, we need to start by praying (even if it is in our head)... PRAY for God's love and wisdom!  Also, it certainly helps to know God's word well, because He gives so much advice on how to resolve and reconcile.  In fact, everything we would ever need to know, is in the Bible, and it is all relevant, applicable and effective!  Then as we are obedient to God's will, in His love, strength and wisdom, all to His glory, He will do and accomplish amazing things!  This includes having not just inner spiritual peace, but living in a much more peaceful environment.

relationships (Matthew 5:8) Genuinely Pure in Heart

(Matthew 5:8)

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

As my mom frequently said, "words are important", so, I looked up the word "pure" in the Bible dictionary.  Basically, "PURE" means to be clean, or clear.  Also:

• to be innocent
• to be free from sin
• to be sincerely and genuinely blameless
• to be unstained with the guilt of anything
• to be ethically free from corrupt desire
• to NOT impart any uncleanness
• to be guiltfree from every admixture of what is false

The only way anyone can get to heaven is with a pure heart, because God is holy and cannot have a relationship with sin.  The only way we can have a pure heart is though salvation, which is available only through Jesus Christ.  This is to humbly repent of our sins and accept the Lord Jesus into our hearts.  It is in that moment that Jesus forgives all of our sins (past, present, future), which purifies our hearts, as He covers us with His righteousness, and gives us His indwelling Holy Spirit.

Moving forward, once we are believers (born again as children of God), we are told:

(1 John 3:2-3)  Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope set on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.

One of the illustrations that the Bible uses to help us understand the term "to be clean" is like how a vine is cleansed by pruning, so that it is able to bear fruit.  In our daily walk with the Lord, it is beneficial to confess our sins as we realize them, which prunes away the things that will prevent us from being productive and fruitful, as well as enjoying a close relationship with the Lord.  Being intimately connected to the vine (Jesus, Himself), is to be nourished so that we can grow, as well as have Him be our strength, love, hope, comfort, joy, peace...

(John 15:1-4)  “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself but must remain in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in Me.

Another illustration that the Bible uses to help us understand the term "to be pure" is the act of something being purified by fire.  And the Bible describes God as a consuming fire.  While believers cannot lose our salvation because we have been forgiven of all sin, when we get to heaven, we will be judged and rewarded according to our good works done with pure motives...

(1 Corinthians 3:12-15) Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,  each one’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each one’s work.  If anyone’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward.  If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet only so as through fire.

How exciting the thought is that we will see God face to face one day!  And meanwhile, having Him as our heavenly Father who is always with us, to helps us in all things, allows us to experience Him in mighty ways right now!

relationships (Matthew 5:7) Mercy Has Its Reward

(Matthew 5:7)

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

When we are compassionate, others will tend to show compassion towards us. Even many unbelievers know of the verse,  Treat people the same way you want them to treat you. (Luke 6:31).  And while this definitely helps us to get along with people in general, we will come across those who will not reciprocate. Still, we are to continue to show love, compassion and kindness, no matter what.  I mean, think about the alternative, someone gets in our face, and then we get in their face, and... then what?   By doing that, we will only escalate the situation.

As believers, we are called to go the extra mile, because we are representatives (ambassadors) of Christ.  God loves all people, therefore we are to love all people.  And with Christ in us, in every situation, we should be asking and allowing Him to use us to His glory, to share His love with even the unlovable, to shine His light out into a dark world that is without hope.  So, when we are obedient in God's will, in His love and strength, as our verse above says, we receive mercy... God's mercy!  And so much more!

I've done some cross-referencing here, because God really can lay it all out very clearly for us, without the need for us to explain anything!  Except that we can share experiences and testify where and how these truths worked when we applied them.  Because I know from experience that when I obey God's word, it will always work!  GOD always works!!! 

(Romans 8:28). And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.   

(Ephesians 4:31-32)  All bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and slander must be removed from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

(Romans 12:17-21)  Never repay evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all people. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.”  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

(Proverbs 25:21-22)

     If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;

     And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;
22 For you will heap burning coals on his head,
     And the Lord will reward you.

relationships (Matthew 5:6) Finding True Satisfaction

(Matthew 5:6)

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

We were created with souls that can only be filled by the Lord God, but because we are all born into sin, our souls are empty, unless and until we humbly accept Jesus into our lives as our Lord, God, King and Savior.  But until that point, we will feel that void in our souls, and TRY to fill it with something else, be it religion, good works, money, success, sports, a life of leisure, sex, food, drinks, drugs, fame... everything and anything...

Meanwhile, when God created us, He also gave each of us a conscience.  This means that we'll have some innate sense of what is right and wrong, and what it might mean to be good.  We can even understand the terms of having integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, and correct thinking, feeling, and acting, and seeing the need for justice and fairness.  Many people strive to be as good as possible, thinking that they can earn their way up to some sort of higher state, be it heaven, nirvana, utopia, or somehow being reincarnated into a better being... And while we can be quite good in our own efforts, nobody can be "good enough" in order to be approved by God.

Because God is holy, He cannot have a relationship with sin.  To be a child of God means we have to have His very nature, which is holiness, which is perfection and RIGHTEOUSNESS.  It doesn't matter how hard we try, in our own efforts, we could never achieve perfection.  It is impossible.  But with God - it is possible.  And  BECAUSE God loves us and desires to have a personal relationship with us - THIS is why He created us in the first place - He came in flesh to accomplish His work on the cross, to provide the way.  Salvation through Jesus is the only way we can be reconciled to God.  To be right with God requires God to do it for us.

This requires us to recognize that we are sinners in need of a Savior.  In this, we will recognize our spiritual hunger and thirst, and our need to fill that void in our souls with Truth.  When we truly search for Truth, we will find it... that being Jesus.  When we humbly repent of our sins and accept Him into our life, He forgives us of all our sins (past, present and future), and at the same time, covers us with His righteousness!  In this, our soul is immediately filled with His indwelling Holy Spirit who seals us for eternity, and changes us from the inside out, and this is how we are made complete.  In this we are satisfied!  This is how a person is born again, to have God's very nature within us, and become a legitimate child of God!

And once we become a child of God, our loving heavenly Father gives us purpose and directions, and equips us to carry out His will and whatever it is that He asks us to do in order to help build His kingdom of love and hope.  All the while, it is all about having a personal relationship with Him!  When He asks us to do something, He doesn't want us to go off on our own to try to do it, He wants to do everything WITH us, FOR us, IN us, and THROUGH us.

It sounds so simple!  But, while we cannot lose our salvation, we will still struggle with sin.  This is why God desires that we continue to hunger and thirst after His righteousness!  You know, like when we eat the most delicious food, and it tastes so amazing, that we just want to keep eating, even though we already feel full.  It's the same way with the Lord, but more so... and - truly - we could never get to a point where we say, okay, I'm way too full to have more.  Remember, the Lord God is sovereign, eternal, omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent... all things are possible with God.  Our imaginations and brains cannot even come close to comprehending!

Therefore, in our daily walk, we should strive to crave more of His word, more of His Holy Spirit's guidance, help and strength, more and constant conversations with Him, more desire to trust, obey, worship, embrace and serve Him, in His will, and applying His love and righteousness!  This is how we can experience God in an intimate relationship.  This is how we are acceptable to God and gain His approval.  It is all about the condition of our hearts, which hunger and thirst after the heart of the Lord Jesus.  It is only in Him that we will truly and fully be satisfied!