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September 8 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in the 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. And who is adequate for these things? 2 Corinthians 2:14-16. First century Greek market places had an incense burner at the entrance. The people were required to place some incense on the burning coals to offer a fragrant aroma to the false Greek gods. Of course the believer in the one true God would not do this, and they would be banned from the market. Is it not interesting that our God regards us—our very lives—as a fragrant aroma offered to Him? I often do not think of myself in that manner, but it is a remarkable testimony to the grace of God that He ‘smells’ us in that manner. It can only be the new creation that we have been given that creates that aroma. The world around us reacts in one of two ways. Those who believe in Christ and follow Him will gain new life and encouragement in our presence. Some who reject Christ will only strengthen their grip on death when they regard our presence. We are clearly not adequate for these things, but Christ is totally adequate. Heavenly Father, let us rejoice today in the fragrant aroma that You sense from the followers of Jesus. I pray that we truly smell good. I know that I cannot generate this fragrance. You must be regarding the aroma created by Your Son. As Your word says, “walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” (Ephesians 5:2). Let me marvel at the thought of this as I contemplate the wonders of Your grace. Thank You and Amen.
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