How to Smell Good to God
by Dr. Paul Chappell
“For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.”
Philippians 4:16–18
Of all our senses, smell is the one that produces the strongest memory and emotional effect. Repeated scientific studies show that an odor triggers more brain activity than sight, sound, touch, or taste. Psychology Today reported a study of a veteran with PTSD: “On one occasion, the smell of diesel from a neighborhood fire instantly conjured the memory of an accident in Vietnam. In his mind he could vividly see the burning vehicle, doors ajar, and billows of fire and smoke. The patient couldn’t save his fellow soldiers that day. The smell of diesel frequently caused him to re-experience the overwhelming feelings of guilt and helplessness that he initially experienced more than thirty years ago.”
The Lord certainly does not need reminders—He never forgets. Yet again and again the Bible speaks of things we do such as our gifts and our prayers being a pleasant smell to God. Using the same metaphor of smell, God spoke to Isaiah of His displeasure in the hypocritical self-righteousness of the Israelites who worshiped idols while claiming to love Him. “Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day” (Isaiah 65:5).
All of our actions, both good and bad create a “smell” which arises to God. If we desire for Him to be pleased with our lives, and we certainly should have that as our goal every day, then we must do the things that He has commanded.
Philippians 4:16–18
Of all our senses, smell is the one that produces the strongest memory and emotional effect. Repeated scientific studies show that an odor triggers more brain activity than sight, sound, touch, or taste. Psychology Today reported a study of a veteran with PTSD: “On one occasion, the smell of diesel from a neighborhood fire instantly conjured the memory of an accident in Vietnam. In his mind he could vividly see the burning vehicle, doors ajar, and billows of fire and smoke. The patient couldn’t save his fellow soldiers that day. The smell of diesel frequently caused him to re-experience the overwhelming feelings of guilt and helplessness that he initially experienced more than thirty years ago.”
The Lord certainly does not need reminders—He never forgets. Yet again and again the Bible speaks of things we do such as our gifts and our prayers being a pleasant smell to God. Using the same metaphor of smell, God spoke to Isaiah of His displeasure in the hypocritical self-righteousness of the Israelites who worshiped idols while claiming to love Him. “Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day” (Isaiah 65:5).
All of our actions, both good and bad create a “smell” which arises to God. If we desire for Him to be pleased with our lives, and we certainly should have that as our goal every day, then we must do the things that He has commanded.
Today’s Growth Principle:
Our gratitude for God’s grace and goodness should lead us to obey and honor Him in all we do.
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