The aroma of a changed-life
But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this? You see, we are not like the many hucksters who preach for personal profit. We preach the word of God with sincerity and with Christ’s authority, knowing that God is watching us. 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
From the text, the Apostle Paul expressed his gratefulness to God for saving him and taking him as His child. Then he used a familiar imagery to his readers on how the Roman soldiers celebrate a major military victory. The commanding general will lead a parade followed by their powerful soldiers and officers in their chariots. Included in the celebration was the burning of fragrances and the smell will fill the entire city. Musicians will play their instruments to the sound of victory music. Those who were not able to see the parade would realize what was taking place by the smell of the fragrance and as they hear the music played from afar. Paul used this analogy to describe the effect and influence of the life of believers to the people around them. This is what God does in the life of those who are resolved to follow Him. His life and the work of the Holy Spirit within permeate their being. Their life becomes an expression of what victory should look like in the life of believer. The most convincing evidence that God is alive and at work is when Christians let the life of Christ manifested in their actions. The Holy Spirit within provides power and strength so that you will desire to please God. What a privilege you have to be called by God that the fragrance of Christ will be manifested to others through the life-changing power because of the forgiveness you received. Your life in Christ becomes an aroma that leads others to seek out the relationship that God alone provides. Let the power of God work in you through the leading of the Holy Spirit so that others will be convinced that God is victorious. Stay true to your commitment to God and let the fragrance of the Lord be manifested through your actions. “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon” (Philippians 4:4-5).
Blessings,
