Do Hard Things Challenge 9

In Matthew 5:13-16 we are challenge to be salt and light to this world. It is time for this generation to rise up to this challenge.

What does it mean to be salt?

-to be different/unique (salt is different from the food it is used on...it has a distinct flavor)
-to slow/stop decay (to be an antidote to the decay of sin in this world)

What does it meant to be light?

-Shine out into the darkness
-Reveal darkness-call sin, sin
-Lead others to the source of light, Jesus, and to glorify him

What causes the salt to lose it's saltiness?

-When we ignore our uniqueness in Christ and try to fit into the culture
-When we stop injecting ourselves into culture with the remedy of sin, Jesus

What causes the light to go out?

-Hiding from the darkness instead of shining into it
-focusing on man, which only reflects the light (ex. moon is not a source of light)

We need to be salt and light in practical ways to the people around us on a daily basis. Here are a few ideas of how to be salt and light at home, at school and at work:

1. Serving others (By taking their trash to the cans for them at lunch. By helping at the grocery store by returning people's carts for them).

2. Praying for your friends when they are struggling...right then...right there!

3. Take those jobs that other people don't want and do it without complaining

4. Simple respect

5. Give simple help to your neighbors, even without being asked (take their trash can back, feed their dog, clean their yard, etc.)

6. When you hear about a local ministry that needs help, find out how you can pitch in and then do it!

7. Love the "unlovely" people you see every day

8. Make your Facebook and Myspace page a place that penetrates the darkness with light, not a place that adds to the darkness

9. Stand up for the little guy

10. Ask for forgiveness when you have wronged someone

This week look to intentionally be salt and light to your parents, friends, teachers, co-workers, and that lady at the cash register at food lion.