I like the smell of my roses in the backyard. I like the smell of bacon. Did you know that some people like the smell of gasoline? I guess we have different “tastes” when it comes to aromas. I think we can have one of two reactions to people of faith (Christians). Paul realized that he and the believers in Corinth were so connected through Christ that even when Paul brought hard discipline, they still found him to be a pleasing aroma and he felt that way about them. Why? Because they were ‘being saved’ (sanctified). Those who cause us to grow spiritually are a pleasing aroma of life unto life, even when they offer us correction. But, those still unsaved and without regeneration feel a repulsion toward us. We may remind them that they have not yet found the answer to life and death. We are to them the aroma of death to death… until they are saved! Paul says there is no reason to compromise or try to “peddle/sell” the gospel, simply live it out and every man’s conscience will inform him.
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us reveals the fragrance 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 the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things? For we are not like the many, peddling the word of God, but as from sincerity, but as from God, we speak in Christ in the sight of God. 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 NASB
To whom am I the aroma of life unto life? How sincere am I in my faith when I speak?
God, as this day begins- I again dedicate it all to You. May You use me to reach out and love people in Your name. I pray that I would be an ever increasing aroma of life unto life for all I know. As Maureen and I prepare for some travel, please give us some moments with our grandcuties beforehand. I wonder if the new baby will be delivered soon? Bless Kasey with a delivery that is short and without undue pain.
