SALTED OATS! – Mark 9:50 Devotional
Mark 9:50
“Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.”
Salt is very valuable and across the centuries it has had many uses. It was used to preserve and season foods and for its medicinal qualities. In Roman times the soldiers were paid in salt. That is where the word salary came from. When you hear the expression “he’s not worth his salt” it refers to the payment in salt that was received.
I once heard a preacher use a wonderful illustration. He said something like this: “While it is true that you can lead a horse to water, you can’t make him drink — but you can salt his oats!” I cannot begin to tell you the number of times I have thought of that illustration since first hearing it.
Some of us in Christian ministry wear ourselves out trying to force people to drink when they show no inclination and, in fact, refuse to drink. We heap on guilt or glitter, but there are still no slurping sounds.
What is the answer? SALT THE OATS! Right! How do we do that? It is a good question and deserves careful consideration. Are you salting the oats of those you come in contact with? Are you creating such a desire that people must drink from God’s well that never will run dry? Spend time in God’s Word and experience the thrill that will make you want more and more of Him.
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil