But thanks be to God, who always leads us in 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 the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. 2 Corinthians 2:14-16
I like the smell of Old Spice. I also think the commercials are hilarious and clever. I don’t really use it. But, that’s another story. When you know God in a personal way, it shows. Actually it smells. That’s what Paul was getting at. He said the knowledge of Him manifests through us as a sweet aroma in every place. People react differently to us (and the aroma of Christ) based on where they are in their obedience, openness or rejection of God. To some, we smell like life and they want to know more. To others, we wreak of death, reminding them that they are separated from God now and will be for eternity. Either way, we should smell like Christ and not be surprised by the reactions.
Am I growing in Christlikeness? Can others smell me coming a mile away?
God as this day begins, I thank you for being very real and present in my life. I pray the vast majority of those I know and meet would be drawn toward You because of the way You are manifested in my speech, conduct and love. I hope someone today says “what smells so good?”
