Even the world understands this concept, that the goal of a great company, business, or even church is to be effective.  Not everyone is going to like it, or even use it, but what they cannot say about a great business that keeps thriving is that it is not effective.  Nor can they say that about an individual, family, or church who is very influential towards those they serve and love…

So when Jesus addresses that we are “salt” as Christians, He gives us a distinct identity and purpose.  The purpose of salt is to be effective.  That people don’t look at salt and determine it’s value by how many people like it!  It is useful whether you like it or not!  It’s effectiveness has nothing to do with the opinions of people.

This is the challenge for us as Christians.  We as “salt” can lose focus on our purpose, because we are trying to be “liked” more than being effective.  But being liked is something that changes depending on who you are around!  So to root us in not chasing approval, Jesus says we are salt, which some people don’t like and will not like, but they can’t take away it’s effect!

So as Christians, ask yourself how much energy and time do you spend on trying to be liked by people who can change at any moment?  Also what influence has become stronger in your life, God’s Word and His love, or what people think and their idea of love?  Because only God’s Word makes us truly distinct, effective, and purposeful in a world that needs us to be such things.

In His Love, Ld