There was this charismatic and energetic assistant Pastor who was very good in leading the Church in congregational prayers. He was loved by all. This young man was caught in the act of sexual immorality. After proper investigation, it was discovered that that was his first time indulging in such an act.
Before the incidents, his ministry was greatly appreciated and celebrated for he was also a good Bible study teacher. Sadly, after the incident, he lost his respect in the Church. That is the consequence of a Christian losing his saltiness.
It is common knowledge that we the followers of Jesus Christ are the salt of the earth. However, not many Christians are aware of the fact that they can lose their saltiness, like the young Pastor.
Our Lord Jesus Christ clearly stated the fact that a salt can actually lose its saltiness. “Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?” Luke 14:34. Hence, the Lord encourages us to, “Have salt in yourselves.” Mark 9:50.
In my journey in the faith, I have seen Christians with amazing ministry, who were once cherished by everyone. Their lives and testimonies drew many to the Lord. However, in the process of time, they misbehaved and did things that turned the heart of people against them. Such singular carelessness caused them to lose their saltiness and tarnished their image.
There are a lot of things that can cause a Christian to lose his saltiness. Some of which are a lying tongue, wrong approach to offences, living a hypocritical life, sexual perversion, wrong attitude to money and poor interpersonal relationship skill. These things can make people turn their backs against the faith. Nobody should reject the gospel because of your manner of living.
One of the wonderful things that happened to me right from when I gave my life to Christ were the amazing brethren, whose lives have greatly influenced and motivated me to stay on the path of righteousness. These brethren were the salt that the Lord used to preserve me in the way of the Lord. For salt is a preservative agent.
The indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the believers, coupled with all the investments of God, are what makes the believers the salt of the earth. We are expected to bring the flavour of the salt in our lives to everyone and everywhere we find ourselves. Our salt is a preservative agent in the midst of the corruption in our world. Hence, we are supposed to positively influence everyone who comes across.
As beautiful as this experience is, it is important to note that a Christian can lose his saltiness. A little folly, careless talk, sinful habits, and a double standard life can make one lose the flavour of his salt.
For the story of the assistant pastor, I believed that God forgave him, but it was difficult for men to forgive or even forget about the issue and trust him again. This is what happens when a Christian loses their saltiness. The effectiveness of his ministry was lost in that congregation. Even though his ministry can still be restored, it will take time for his image to be redeemed.
To destroy is very easy, but it is very difficult to build back what has been destroyed. A man can destroy overnight what took many years to build. This is why you have to be very careful about losing your salt. You must get rid of every little fox that is capable of spoiling your vine. (Song of Solomon 2:15).
"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.”
Proverbs 22:1.
I remember the story of a once renowned man of God who was greatly loved and revered by Christians in many nations of the world. He lost his respect and honour because of a sexual scandal that came up. The scandal didn’t just affect the church that he pastored; it also affected the demand for his ministry. Even his books and messages, which were in hot demand, were no longer valued.
The Effect Of Losing Your Saltiness
The effect of losing your salt is enormous. The Lord Jesus said, “…if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” Matthew 5:13
Here are some consequences of losing your salt:
i. Your ministry and testimony will be rejected.
ii. You won’t be able to influence anyone positively.
iii. People’s hearts towards you will be closed.
iv. Your reputation and integrity will be at stake
v. It will be difficult for men to trust you again.
vi. People will begin to see you from a bad light.
Like I said early, God would definitely forgive you if you repent, but it may be difficult for men to forgive and accept your ministry again. It will take time, grace and God’s mercy for the heart of men to be open to your ministry.
How To Maintain The Flavour Of Your Salt
1. Live with wisdom. Think before you act.
2. Always think of your integrity and the many years it took you to build your reputation.
3. Continuously crucify the flesh while you live by the Spirit.
4. Cultivate the habit of drawing strength from God on a daily basis through prayers to face each day.
“Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”
1 Corinthians 10:12,
Meditate on this.
©Gavin Aleogho
