"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 aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life" (2 Corinthians 2:14-16a, NIV).
We give off smells. Of course, I'm speaking figuratively. Even though, there is a person or two out there that are the real deal, haha, and everyone has someone that comes to mind. However, that isn't want this post is about. =)
The truth is, we give off smells. These smells could be harmful and gross, or delightful and enticing. Our attitudes and how we treat people will determine what kind of aroma we are omitting. As children of God, we need to be a continuation of Christ. We need to be radiating from God, and channeling his attitude and love towards others. The stench we leave is like the damage we leave behind.
Think about it. If you smell awful, it's probably because you've been rolling around in something dirty, or you just haven't bathed in a while. You haven't been taking care of yourself. Everywhere you go, you omit some sort of horrid smell. People are affected by these smells and become automatically disgusted as you walk by. That smell, in a small essence, is a direct result of you. You stink. You spread your stinkiness. People suffer because of it. This can be parallel to your attitude as a person. If you are rude, offensive, or ignore others, what kind of smell do you think people are picking up? Something sweet and intriguing? Probably not. They will be turned off by you.
This isn't just a metaphor used to represent negative behaviors. It can be used to mimic positive, Christ-like behaviors as well. If you are showing love to others, and respecting each other, the chances are people will be more drawn to you. If you encourage and support your fellow peers and are always there to listen and never judge, do you think people are going to be turned off by you? No! It's like finding your favorite smelling perfume/cologne, or a beautiful flower and has a beautiful scent. You are drawn to these things, and often times you can't get enough of them. You take deep breaths and close your eyes as your nose is filled with the amazing fragrance, and it feels up your lungs. You want to soak in it forever.
Imagine if we were the aroma of Christ. Christ was already perfect, he already led the way and showed us how to live. What if we were the left behind scent, though? The living and breathing result of his life. Think of how many more people would be drawn to us if we showed everyone a radical love and undying encouragement? I am aware that one smell does not appeal to all, and some will find it disgusting, but God understood that: "...To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life"
Confession: I stink.
No, I don't mean physically, but spiritually. I gossip. I speak ill of others. If you annoy me, my face tends to show it. I am short with people. I don't always show people the kindness and love they deserve. I know I don't show it to people who don't deserve it. So I stink. I am not the aroma of Christ, although I am quick to claim that I am.
I had never really read that verse, at the top of the blog, and understood it until today. I never paid much attention to it. Now, I understand that attaching the Christ Follower label to my life, should mean I'm omitting something different than the rest of the world. I should be a direct result of Christ, and how I act should represent that.
Based on how people act today, the world is pretty rancid.
Can you imagine what it would be like if we were all the true aroma of Christ?
I doubt I could get enough of it. =)
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