Why I Want to be Like Salt
In a fun Christian gathering I attended, each person had to take a turn to answer this question: “If you had to choose to be one thing in this world, what do you want to be, and why?”
I thought it was an interesting question. Actually I wasn’t sure what I would respond, which is why I was glad my turn came almost toward the end. Well, someone answered he wanted to be “money,” another said “a pen” (perhaps to be an instrument in communicating truth?), while others came up with other creative, funny, wonderful ideas.
After pondering about it, I decided that I wish to be like salt! Why? Because salt has certain characteristic traits found in the kind of person I want to become.
First, salt causes a thirst. I’d like my conversation to cause others to thirst for more of God. I want to help others realize their need for the Living Water of Life — Who is Jesus Christ. I’m reminded Jesus once said, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty forever.” (John 4:13-14) Many have tried to find fulfillment and quench their “thirst” by turning to alcohol, drugs, money, fame, etc., though they only last but for a season. Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?” Therefore, I need to continually remind myself never to “water down” (compromise) my message, so that it may not lose its “saltiness” and impact.
Secondly, salt seasons food and makes things taste good. When I cook without salt, the dish tastes bland and appeals less to the appetite. The Bible tells us, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” (Colossians 4:6) The first time I read this verse, I wasn’t sure what it means. But now I realize that when I share a message of God’s love to others or answer questions about my faith, I want to be able to communicate the Christian faith in a way that would be palatable to them — in a winsome, consistent, truthful, and reasonable way. My conversation should be “seasoned with salt” so that it not only causes others to thirst for more of God, but also contains an ingredient that makes an otherwise bland, solemn conversation about faith come alive.
Thirdly, I want to be like salt because it is a preservative. Salt can be used as a means to preserve food from spoiling. I hope my conversation can be used as a preservative to encourage others in times of trial, solidify them in their faith, and encourage them to persevere in “running the race” of life.
Fourthly, salt can also be used to melt ice. This is why some people may pour salt over the snow on their driveway. I want to be able to touch and inspire the hearts of others. I hope that God may use my words to soften the cold stony hearts of those who have hardened themselves toward Him, so that He may then mold their hearts and lives for Him.
Last but not least, salt has an ability to construct or hold things together. I didn’t know this at the time of the fellowship, but I learned only recently that salt can be used in everything imaginable. Did you know that salt is even used in the concrete they pour to pave streets? It keeps the cement from crumbling and cracking. Likewise, I know that my words should be constructive, not destructive.
Wow, talk about a multi-purpose ingredient! I have so much to learn and am in a lifelong process of learning to be like all the above — to be the “salt of the earth.” Meanwhile, I don’t think I could ever look at salt the same way again, though. 
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?” —Matthew 5:13
May 5th, 2007 at 1:08 am | Permalink
This essay has made me think of myself Jessica, I think I’m not much of a salt. My theme often about brokenness, I think candle would be more like it
I’ll make a writing on that for my reflection. Thanks for giving me this idea 
May 6th, 2007 at 5:10 pm | Permalink
A candle is a good one!
When you finish, please let me know. I’d love to read it. It sounds really interesting. Candle and salt make a good combination, like “salt and light”. 
August 23rd, 2007 at 8:59 am | Permalink
Your website is truely amazing. I not only found your “SALT”, but i’ve noticed that I’m not the only male as well. You not only opened my eyes to the physical aspects of salt, but you have magnified the Word now that you look at what Jesus taught to those crowds and His disciples. When we look at salt today we don’t think of all the attributes and benefits of it like the people of Christs’ time had looked at it. Now that we compare the salt to what He wants us to be….it blows my mind. Your writing has been a blesssing.
Thanks Blessica,
Jamar
August 29th, 2007 at 12:18 pm | Permalink
Jamar, thanks for visiting by my blog. And thanks so much for your kind words of encouragement! I really appreciate your kind note & thoughts. May God continue to bless you.
August 6th, 2008 at 9:43 pm | Permalink
I love this essay about salt!! Wow. You think well.
August 9th, 2008 at 12:16 am | Permalink
Hi Gabe,
Thanks for taking the time to write. I’m glad if my essay can be edifying. I still have much to learn in my journey and learning to be the “salt of the world.” Thank God for His patience and grace.
Have a wonderful day of worship this Sunday!
September 3rd, 2008 at 7:19 am | Permalink
Hi Jessica,
I was searching the net for some lectures on the Westminster Confession and I came across your site. well done, very nice page. It is encouraging to see young people serious about their faith, dear sister in Christ.
Warmly in Christ,
Bob Hackett
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
~1 Timothy 6:12
September 5th, 2008 at 7:30 pm | Permalink
Hello Pastor Hackett,
It’s very nice to hear from you. I’m glad you stumbled upon my humble abode on the net!
I visited your church’s website, The Shelter Reformed Church. I thought it’s wonderful that your church also sings from the Book of Psalms. Unfortunately, it seems like psalm singing is becoming less common in many churches today.
I hope you find what you were looking for on the Westminster Confession lectures. Coincidentally I’ve been trying to finish listening to a sermon series on the Westminster Larger Catechism by Dr. Joe Morecraft. That reminds me that I need to get back on that again soon.
Thank you again for taking the time to comment and for your kind words of encouragement. May God continue to bless you and all that you do for Him.
March 11th, 2009 at 2:36 am | Permalink
Hi Jessica, I have learn from my senior pastor about “salt” and allow me to share with you:
One of the old uses of salt was as a healing antiseptic. So, by inference, it means : “you are the antiseptic of the world; you bring about healing.”
Salt was also used as a wage in ancient times. Thus, the old saying “a man worth his salt” You are definitely a lady worth your salt.
Regards
Kelvin