Numbers 29:2 As an aroma pleasing to the LORD….
The word aroma has a positive connotation. When I think of aromas, I think of the yeasty scent of bread baking, the spicy scent of cinnamon and apples, the sweet floral scent of spring. The word odor has a negative connotation: body odor, nasty socks, flatulence, poop. Both aromas and odors are pervasive. They are not easily contained to a specified area.
Numbers 29:8 Present as an aroma pleasing to the LORD….
If our actions were scents, I can easily divide several into odors and aromas, negative and positive. Ephesians 4:31 and 1 Peter 2:1 give a long list of offensive odors: bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy. Meanwhile, Galatians 5:22-23 and Colossians 3:12-13 provide an extensive list of pleasing aromas: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, compassion, humility, meekness, forgiveness.
Numbers 29:13 Present as an aroma pleasing to the LORD….
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this reminder that our actions carry with them a scent that reaches all the way to You. Help us to always act in such a way that provides an aroma pleasing to You and not an offensive odor. Help us to root out and eliminate offensive odors from our behavior. Draw us closer to You. Amen.
Numbers 29:36 Present as an aroma pleasing to the LORD….
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.