Daily Dose 8-28-11

2 Corinthians 2:14-15 But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.

So, what’s your scent? Are those whose hearts are being drawn to Christ attracted to you? Do they find in you something of what they seek in Christ? From the other perspective, are those who are offended by Christ or warrior against Him comfortable with you? As Christians, we should bring extreme reactions from the extreme people of faith. Too often, Christians may try to water down their Christ scent to those in the world in order to fit in and not face rejection. That attempt does two things: our aroma becomes as offensive to God as those who initially denied His son and put Him on the cross; and, we lose our influence to those among the world who may be trying to find Christ in us. How do we strengthen our Christ scent? Spending time with God in His Word and through Christ in prayer is like bathing in expensive perfume that leaves us with a presence that can’t be ignored!

Father, When I read about lives recorded in scripture, they were polarizing. People were either drawn to and encouraged by them because of their stance for You or Jesus, or they were hostile and offended. I am fearful I have become too accommodating at times. Prick my heart to take stand for You that emits the aroma of Christ. May I never water down that sweet scent of hope and salvation for others to follow! I love You! Amen