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2 Corinthians 2:15 - The Fragrance Of Christ.

2 Corinthians 2:15 (NKJV) For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

INTRODUCTION

Like incense the fragrance of the gospel was to be diffused throughout the world. To those who should accept Christ, the message would be a savor of life unto life; but to those who should persist in unbelief, a savor of death unto death. AA326 [Remnant SB]

COMMENTARY PEARL

   I was typing at my computer one morning when a pungent scent wrinkled my nose. Hurrying from my chair, I reached the kitchen in a few steps and yanked open the oven door. Sure enough, my cherry pie had oozed over the pan. A blob of filling was bubbling on the bottom of the oven.
   I waved a hot pad to disperse the smoke and grabbed a spatula to scrape up the burning mess. Then I opened two windows to create a draft to pull the haze out of the house.
   Someone told me years ago it takes two open windows to pull bad air from a space. If only one is open, most of the air sits still.
   It occurred to me that relationships are similar. Healthy communicating involves two people open to take in what the other is saying. One-way communication doesn't do much except create an environment for stagnancy.
   Relating with Jesus is like any other relationship. When He speaks to me, I take in His words and get to know His heart. When I in turn share my heart with Him, He draws me to Him. Staying open to Jesus casts away any toxicity that clouds my heart. Consistent back-and-forth communication with Him clears the air for me to see more clearly and respond to Him. Openness with Jesus - that's sweeter than cherry pie. Erin Keeley Marshall
   Faith Step: Bake a sweet treat, either homemade or store-bought from the freezer section. Practice back-and-forth communication with Jesus as you breathe in the pleasing aroma. [Mornings With Jesus 2024 Devotional by Guideposts and Zondervan]

CLOSING THOUGHT

Through the Holy Spirit, we can begin to know God's thoughts, talk with him, and expect his answers to our prayers. Are you spending enough time with Christ to have his very mind in you? An intimate relationship with Christ comes only from spending time consistently in his presence and in his Word. [Life Application SB]

SPECIAL MUSICAL SELECTION

There's Something About That Name by Gaither Vocal Band
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdSl9ynS3G4

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Philippians 2:5 - Having the Mind of Jesus.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220312-0934.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/