What does it Mean to Live Out my Faith?

Thank God It's Friday (TGIF!). 

Before traveling to Kampong Cham for Pchum Benh holiday tomorrow, I want to share my devotion for today. It's about Matthew 5:13-16, what it means to be salt and light, and how we can live this out practically in our homes, workplaces, and communities. I am trying to reflect and answer the three questions I will share in my discipleship session tonight based on CCF Sunday’s message discussion questions 👉4Ws: Be an Influencer for Christ

As a pastor’s wife here in Cambodia, I often think about what it means to live out my faith in a way that impacts those around me. Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:13-16—about being the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world"—challenge us to ask ourselves how our lives reflect Christ, especially to our family, friends, and neighbors who don’t yet know Him. In a country like Cambodia, where Buddhist beliefs deeply influence the culture, how can we as Christians make a difference?

1. What Does It Mean to Be Salt and Light?

Salt of the Earth:
When Jesus calls us the "salt of the earth," He’s telling us that we are here to make a difference. Just like salt adds flavor to food, we are meant to add goodness to the world around us. Think about a simple dish like bor bor (rice porridge) that we eat in Cambodia. Without salt, it’s bland and tasteless. But just a pinch of salt makes all the difference. In the same way, our lives as Christians should bring out the best in our families, friendships, and communities. We are called to live in a way that shows God’s love, goodness, and truth.

Light of the World:

Light is essential in Cambodia, especially at night when many areas don’t have reliable electricity. A small flashlight can brighten a dark path, helping us see clearly and avoid danger. When Jesus calls us to be the "light of the world," He is asking us to reflect His light—His love, truth, and grace—in a world that is often filled with darkness. We are not the source of the light, but we carry Jesus’ light to those who are searching for hope and truth.

2. How Do We Become Effective Salt and Light?

Staying Close to God:
Just as salt can lose its flavor and a light can go out if the battery dies, we cannot be effective salt and light unless we stay connected to God. It’s important that we spend time in prayer, reading the Bible, and listening to the Holy Spirit so that we can grow in our relationship with God. Here in Cambodia, life can be busy, but we need to prioritize time with God, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. This is where our strength comes from, and this is how we can continue to reflect Christ in our daily lives.

Living a Christlike Life:

Our daily actions matter. How we speak, how we respond to challenges, and how we treat others all reflect whether we are truly following Jesus. When someone speaks harshly to us, do we respond with kindness? When we face difficulties, do we show patience and trust in God? Our neighbors, friends, and family members notice how we live, and when we demonstrate Christlike love, it opens doors for us to share our faith.

For example, when my son with autism has challenging days, I have learned to respond with patience and prayer. It’s not always easy, but it’s in those moments that I’m reminded to lean on God’s strength. This example of faith in the midst of challenges can be a testimony to others, showing them the peace and love that only Christ can offer.

Serving with Compassion:
In Cambodia, people are deeply connected to their communities, and relationships matter. One way we can be salt and light is by serving others with a heart of compassion. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, offering a kind word, or sharing a meal with someone in need, these acts of kindness can reflect God’s love. Jesus was known for serving others, and as His followers, we are called to do the same. Simple acts, like giving food to a street vendor struggling with health or offering to pray for a sick friend, can make a big difference.

3. How Do We Lose Our Saltiness or Light?

Compromise and Blending In:
We lose our effectiveness as salt and light when we begin to compromise our values. It’s easy to go along with what others are doing, especially in a culture where we want to be accepted. But Jesus calls us to be different. For example, in Cambodia, it’s common during Pchum Benh to offer food and gifts to ancestors. While it’s important to respect the culture, as Christians, we are called to gently stand firm in our belief that salvation comes only through Jesus. When we compromise our faith to fit in, we lose the very "saltiness" that makes us different.

Hiding Our Faith:

Another way we lose our light is by hiding it. Sometimes we might feel afraid to talk about Jesus, especially in a country where Christianity is the minority. We may feel it’s easier to keep quiet about our faith to avoid awkwardness or conflict. But Jesus calls us to let our light shine. This doesn’t mean we have to preach loudly on street corners—it can be as simple as sharing with a friend why we have peace during hard times or inviting a coworker to church. When we hide our light, we miss opportunities to lead others to Christ.

Practical Ways to Be Salt and Light in Cambodia

a. In the Family: In Cambodian culture, family is central. As wives and mothers, we can set an example by showing Christlike love to our husbands and children. Pray together as a family and encourage one another to grow in faith. If your spouse or children don’t yet know Christ, continue to love and pray for them, trusting that God is working in their hearts.

b. At Work: Whether you are running a small business, teaching at the university, or working in an office, being honest and respectful at work is a powerful way to reflect Christ. People notice integrity, and when we do our jobs with excellence and treat others kindly, we stand out positively. This can lead to opportunities to share why we live the way we do.

c. In Friendships: Building genuine friendships with both Christians and non-Christians is important. In Cambodia, relationships are built on trust and time spent together. Don’t be afraid to share your faith as part of your life’s story but do so with gentleness and respect. You don’t have to force conversations about Jesus, but when a friend is going through a difficult time, you can offer to pray for them or share how God has helped you.

d. In the Community: Cambodia is full of opportunities to serve. Whether it’s volunteering at a local school, helping out at your church, or offering assistance to neighbors, your service can be a light in the darkness. People are drawn to acts of kindness, and these moments often open doors to share the gospel.

Similar Posts I have written under Marketplace:

👉Why does PPC exist?

👉Being Grateful

👉 Pray, Care, & Share

My last thoughts:

Being salt and light in Cambodia means living in such a way that others are drawn to the love, peace, and hope we have in Christ. It’s about being intentional in our actions and words, showing Christ’s love in practical ways, and being bold in sharing our faith. As we reflect on Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:13-16, let’s commit to being salt and light in our families, workplaces, and communities. And let’s trust that as we live out our faith, God will use our lives to point others to the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Let’s keep praying that through our everyday actions, others will see the light of Jesus shining brightly and be drawn to Him.

Happy Pchum Benh!

the Hourngs in Cambodia 💓😍👪