Bless the City

(Proverbs 11:11 KJV)  By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
As I read through this chapter today I am repeatedly struck by the frequent use of words like “upright” (3477).  Other words from the NASB are “righteous”, “perfect”, “man of understanding”, “faithful spirit”, “gracious woman” and many other expressions that get across an idea that we often resist.  We are expected to be salt in our communities.  You cannot be salt without being salty.  Just as you don’t add ginger when the recipe calls for salt, so you can’t accept the role of being unrighteous and expect to be salt.

So?  You were a sinner.  You have been saved by grace.  You now walk in the light.  You are now salt and need to get around the business of being a blessing to your city.  You are different and God has made you that way.  Serve.  Influence.