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For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing...
- 2 Corinthians 2:15
Puritan ministers commonly declared, “Wherever I go, whatever I do, and wherever I visit, I must leave the scent of Christ behind me.”
As a believer, the Bible declares that you are the “aroma,” or the fragrance of Jesus wherever you go.
As you go, you will encounter two types of people, those who know and follow Jesus and those who reject and despise Jesus. There is no in-between.
To those who know and follow Jesus, your scent is heavenly. It is what Paul calls the “fragrance of life to life (2 Cor. 2:16).”
When you meet other followers of Jesus, your fragrance draws them deeper into the abundant life of which they have already attained.
You are a reminder of the goodness, grace, and mercy found in Jesus Christ. Your scent enlivens them— it encourages them to smell as good as you do.
Your spiritual scent also influences those who have rejected the Lord.
When you come in to contact with people who are dead in their sins, you are like perfume at a landfill, what Paul calls the “aroma of death to death” (vs. 16). Your aroma makes them more aware of their stench and deadness, more aware of their sin and need for Christ.
They meet you and “smell” that something is different - something is wrong in their lives.
Wherever you go, this fragrance is emanating from your life because God is the active agent! God is working in and through you to bring forth His heavenly scent. Thanks to God, you “smell” good wherever you go— you “smell” good to whomever you meet. Walk in confidence today, you are covered in the perfume of heaven!
Your prayer today, “God may I be an aroma of life to those who know you and a reminder of death to those who do not. Fill me up Lord with your heavenly scent!”
Press on,
Pastor Harp
As you reflect on 2 Corinthians 2:15, use your Personalized Scripture Journal to consider how your life reflects Christ to others.
Paul describes believers as the “fragrance of Christ.” Fragrance spreads naturally. It does not force itself — it simply fills the space.
Write through these prompts:
· What atmosphere do I create when I enter a room?
· Do my words and actions reflect Christ’s love?
· Where is God inviting me to represent Him more clearly?
· What habits strengthen my closeness with Him?
· How does my personal relationship with God influence others?
After reflecting, write a personal prayer:
Ask God to refine your character.
Invite Him to shape your reactions.
Pray that your life would quietly point others toward Him.
The more time you spend in personal relationship with Christ, the more naturally His presence shows through you. Your journal becomes a place to track that transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 2 Corinthians 2:15 mean?
It teaches that believers represent Christ in the world, like a fragrance that reflects His presence.
Why use the image of fragrance?
Because influence spreads naturally and often subtly.
How can I become the fragrance of Christ?
By staying close to Him through prayer, Scripture, and obedience.
Does this mean I must be perfect?
No. It means growing steadily in relationship and character.
How does journaling help build spiritual influence?
Writing deepens awareness of your attitudes and invites God to refine them.
How does this verse build a personal relationship with God?
It reminds us that influence flows from intimacy. The closer you are to Him, the more clearly others see Him through you.
