Beatitudes & Salt

One tricky part of this series, the main tricky part of this series, is trying to figure out which stories go first. Early in Luke, we see Jesus being rejected at Nazareth but both Matthew and Mark have quite a bit happen beforehand. Therefore, I’m going to jump into Matthew and see how far we get.

Today’s Reading: Matthew 5:01-16

The Beatitudes

The beatitudes are only spoken of in the book of Matthew. There are nine beatitudes in total.

1. Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of God.
2. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
3. Blessed are the meek (think humble, patient, submissive), for they shall inherit the earth.
4. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.
5. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
6. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
7. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
8. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
9. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:03-12) 

The beatitudes are by no means easy for many to obtain. Poor in spirit. Those who mourn. Those who are patient. Those who seek after righteousness. The merciful. The pure in heart. The peacemakers. Those who are persecuted.

Salt & Light

Yet, the beatitudes paint a picture as to how these can be obtained. We are told by Christ in Matthew 5 verse 13 that we are the salt of the earth. However, if salt should lose its flavor there is no way to season it again. Therefore the salt gets thrown out and trampled underfoot.

Those who are of Christ will clearly reflect the beatitudes. They will be salt and seasoned with the Spirit.

In verse 14, we are told we are also the light of the world. Christ says a city on a hill cannot be hidden.

This means it should be obvious to everyone around us that we are followers of Christ, and especially in trials. As when darkness falls, light is easier to see. Light is never meant to be hidden from others. We are to shine so brightly others desire Christ.

(NKJ) Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven.” 

What To Take Away– The things the world does not enjoy like persecution and hardship, Christians are told to embrace. We are continually encouraged to understand that trials, though difficult, enhance our faith. They push us forward. Struggles allow us to be a light to others. People are fascinated when they see believers standing strong in Christ when everything comes against them. That’s the power of Jesus! That’s the kind of light we need to reflect!

Ponder Below:

How can you show others the light of Christ?

Monthly Scripture – (NIV) Ephesians 3:19, “and to know this love that surpasses knowledge–that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

 Community Prayer Requests | July– Join us in requesting prayer, praying for each other and lifting each other up. 

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