"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us spreads and makes evident everywhere the sweet fragrance of the knowledge of Him. For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which ascends] to God, [discernible both] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the latter one an aroma from death to death [a fatal, offensive odor], but to the other an aroma from life to life [a vital fragrance, living and fresh]. And who is adequate and sufficiently qualified for these things?" (2 Cor. 2:14-16, Amp)
Have you ever noticed how certain fragrances have the ability to change moods, evoke emotions, or bring up memories from the past? We all have our favorite fragrances. I am reminded of special fragrances such as: the freshness after a rain, flowers blooming in early spring, or the fresh scent when cuddling a sweet baby. There are fragrance counters in certain department stores with various scents for various occasions, with varying price tags attached. Some scents are pleasant and some not so much, some can even be offensive to the senses.
With fragrances in mind, may we focus on the sweet fragrance of Christ who leads us in triumph as we grow in more knowledge of Him. As a redeemed child of God, we become a vital fragrance, living and fresh, adequate and sufficient. Commissioned and sent from God to speak His message in Christ in His sight. O, the sweet fragrance we experience in relationship with Him. As we spend time with Him in quiet moments throughout our day and take in the sweet fragrance of Christ; O, how sweet it truly is!
In John 12:3, we see the story of Mary anointing the feet of Jesus with an expensive perfume. Through this humble act of adoration for Him, I am sure He enjoyed the sweet fragrance of her heartfelt act of love.
In Ephesians 5:2 we are reminded of Christ giving Himself up as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
In the Old Testament, the burning of incense or perfume on an alter for God was for Him to smell a pleasing aroma. So, in the same way the sweet incense burned in the tabernacle and temple signifying the presence of God, we bear the fragrance of His very presence. We bear witness of our relationship with God through Jesus' victory on the cross as an aroma unto life for those who have yet to believe. Go today and be a sweet fragrance to others by representing Jesus Christ to those lost and unaware of His vital fragrance.
Father God, may we represent Christ with a sweet fragrance for You. May we permeate the senses of the lost with Your fragrance. Thank You for entrusting us with Christ's victory at the cross. May we bring you honor, glory, and sweet fragrances of our obedience in Christ. In His Name, Amen.
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