Thursday, August 20, 2020

What is that smell?


"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in His triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma of life to life, and who is adequate for these things? 2 Corinthians 2:14-16

Stepping outside to my enclosed patio, I can't see any neighbors, but I sure can smell their chicken barbecue simmering on their grill. My stomach growls as my mouth salivates. I lift my nose to the air to take in one more tantalizing breath. I am drawn to the wonderful dream of taking part in it's deliciousness.

Did you realize that you are always giving off an aroma? I'm not talking about your perfume or aftershave. I'm not talking about the odious smells that may be from a good workout. I'm talking about a sweet fragrance of life that is expelled from you every time you are in someones presence. Because you are a believer in Jesus Christ you have the Holy Spirit living within you which is emanating His sweet aroma of life, eternal life that is. Your very presence brings love, joy, hope, peace and patience. 

Interestingly there is a great contrast that appears here.Your very aroma of life can speak death, destruction and the smell of decay to the unbelieving soul. These individuals tend to stay as far away from you as possible. They do not want to recognize their need for the Savior, that they fall short as they compare themselves to a living, holy and glorious God.Your aroma can be extremely repulsive. It can be compared to a dump that has been on the outskirts of my town. Recently this dump started accepting train loads of garbage from New York City. The stench is overwhelming! No wonder people lash out at your beliefs and treat you unkindly, or tend to remain aloof.

There is a great divide when it comes to Jesus Christ. You are either being drawn to Him, or you are turning your back and running from Him. My prayer is that you will recognize your posture here.It can also explain why you have some strained relationships. 2 Corinthians 2:17 explains that when we sincerely look for God, He opens His Word to our understanding;

"For we are not like many peddling the word of God, but as from sincerity, but as from God, we speak in Christ in the sight of God."

The word of God holds all truth. When you take it in through your eyes or ears, God's Word will permeate your heart. You will be drawn to His pleasant aroma of life. You will now grow stronger in His ways and in His gifts. You will have an awesome eternal future ahead.

Take in a deep breath of His Holy Spirit today. Turn from your doubt, distrust and unbelief. Come to the Savior of the world who can do anything and everything. You too will emanate that precious sweet aroma!


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