As Christians, we are called to live in a way that reflects the love and goodness of God. The Bible speaks of a fragrance—a sweet aroma that emanates from the life of a believer who is walking in obedience to the Lord. This fragrance is not a literal scent, but a spiritual one. It's the testimony of a life transformed by grace, the presence of Christ shining through every action, word, and attitude.
In 2 Corinthians 2:14-15, the apostle Paul writes:
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." (NIV)
Paul likens our lives as Christians to a fragrance—one that spreads the knowledge of Christ wherever we go. This fragrance is not just for the benefit of those who already know Christ, but also for those who have yet to experience His love and grace. It is the aroma of salvation, a reflection of God's beauty and holiness that others can sense, even if they don't fully understand it.
What Is the Fragrance of the Lord?
The fragrance of the Lord is the manifestation of His love, peace, joy, kindness, patience, and faithfulness in our lives. It is the way we live out our faith in tangible ways that others can notice. Just as a pleasant aroma lingers in the air and leaves an impression on those around us, so too should our actions, words, and attitudes leave an impression of Christ wherever we go.
This fragrance is not something we create on our own; it is the fruit of the Holy Spirit working in us. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul lists the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These virtues are the scent of Christ in us. When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, we become vessels through which God's love and grace flow, and that fragrance touches everyone we encounter.
Are We Releasing the Fragrance?
The key question for us as believers is whether we are allowing this fragrance to be released into the world. Are we living in a way that reflects the heart of Christ? Are our actions, even in the mundane moments of life, releasing the aroma of His presence?
One of the challenges we face as Christians is the temptation to let our circumstances or emotions cloud the fragrance of Christ. In moments of frustration, hurt, or impatience, we can easily forget to embody the kindness and love that are part of God’s fragrance. But even in those moments, God is calling us to be a living testimony of His grace.
The fragrance of the Lord is also a challenge to us to be intentional about how we represent Christ. It’s not about being perfect, but about striving to be more like Him each day. We can ask ourselves: Are we showing the love of God to those around us? Are we living in peace, even in stressful situations? Are we reflecting His joy in times of sorrow?
Spreading the Aroma to the World
When we live with the fragrance of Christ, it has the power to draw others to Him. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16:
"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Our good deeds—acts of love, service, and kindness—can act as a sweet fragrance to a broken world. When people experience the love of Christ through us, they may be drawn to Him in ways they never expected. As we embody the fragrance of the Lord, we become ambassadors for Christ, spreading His love wherever we go.
Conclusion
The fragrance of the Lord is not just something we receive; it is something we must actively release into the world. As Christians, we are called to let His love and presence shine through us, leaving a lasting impact on those around us. Let us examine our lives, ensuring that we are spreading the sweet aroma of Christ in all that we do. May our lives be a fragrant offering to God, and may others experience His goodness through us.
Dr. Phil Spears Visit us at www.thechurchofgodsa.com
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