Take a moment to read 2 Corinthians 2:12-17 before reading the devotional below.
Paul’s life is complicated and messy, and he holds it up as a prime example of what it means to follow Jesus. He’s travelling around preaching the good news of Jesus (in an age with no electricity, fast transportation, or internet…), and he’s doing a lot of things all at the same time. He’s listening to the Holy Spirit on where he should go next, he’s eagerly awaiting word about the well-being of the Corinthian church (and other churches as well). He’s writing letters and managing a far-reaching movement.
In this passage we see the contrast of how people felt about Paul (and all Christians). He’s loved by some and hated by others. It turns out, when we follow Jesus we will smell different. To some we smell like a sweet perfume, to others a rotten stench. The only thing that really matters is how we smell to God.
Here’s your freedom for today:
God recognizes your sincerity.
Some who call themselves “Christians” smell awful… and everyone can tell. Even God thinks they stink. They are so far from acting like Jesus that it’s horrible to have his name come out of their mouths. These are the “hucksters” who preach for their own personal gain. All they really want is power or wealth. They might have even convinced themselves that they want power or wealth to do good for God’s kingdom. But it’s really all about themselves. Others are sincere, loving, wanting to genuinely help others find Jesus. Give yourself a little sniff today — how do you smell?