Marinades
I like to do a little cooking from time to time. I enjoy eating, but nearly as much, I enjoy the aromas from cooking, particularly meat. Frequently, to prepare meat for cooking, I’ll marinate it, which of course involves soaking it for extended periods in whatever spices, seasonings, and flavors I want it to absorb. I find it interesting how different the same cut and type of meat can smell during cooking, based upon what it was marinated in.
The same is true of us. II Cor. 2:15 says that “…we are the aroma of Christ to God…” We will naturally be the aroma of whatever we soak ourselves in. If we spend the majority of our time reading or watching racy, violent, or vengeful stories and movies, talking about our neighbors’ faults and failures, scheming to get ahead, and soaking up worldly pleasures, that is the aroma we’ll give off, both to God and to those around us. (Romans 8:5 “…those who live according to the flesh set their minds on things of the flesh…”) But if we immerse ourselves extensively in God’s Word, and pursue actions and entertainment that exemplifies His principles and teachings, then that’s what will soak into us, and that’s the aroma we’ll exude. So, starting today, resolve to marinate in the “fruit of the Spirit.” (Gal. 5:19-23)