“One Year Bible” New Testament Passage (for Tues., Aug. 28)
II Corinthians 2:12-17
Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. II Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV)
There is an atmosphere that should surround every believer – every follower of the Lord Jesus. It is an atmosphere of triumph. But, this is an interesting and amazing kind of triumph.
The natural man wins by domination and intimidation. He overwhelms the adversary by superior strength. It is a conquest fed by ego and aggressiveness. This is path for advance by the world’s definition of power.
The follower of Jesus exudes a triumph based on surrender! It is a victory birthed out of defeat – the death of Christ on the Cross. We win by LAYING OUR LIVES DOWN! It is not fed by selfish ego, but instead by the love of God.
This is the fragrance of Christ. It is the aroma of the offering laid on the altar. And it is PLEASING to the Father.
You bring an atmosphere with you wherever you go. Do people see your superior personality or unique gifts? Or do they see a person broken by God so that Jesus shines through you? It is an incredible privilege to carry the aroma of Jesus.