Body Odor and Me

Just go with me here.  This is going to sound odd, but there is a point.  

Many years ago, I realized I no longer created body odor.  So, after experimenting sans deodorant, I stopped using it.  A couple of years ago, my body odor was back in full force.  I thought that was weird but began using deodorant again.  I tried many brands.  None of them worked.  

I was so confused.  

I would be toweling off after my shower and could already smell myself.  I tried scrubbing at the sink before I dressed.  Nothing worked.  

The other day as I was drying off, I became aware that I was odor free.  As I analyzed my situation, I spotted my “help I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” device laying on the counter.  I purchased it a couple of years ago.  It is waterproof so can be worn in the shower.  For some reason that day I did not have it on.  

See where I’m going with this?  I didn’t have body odor.  It was the wet cord holding the device around my neck.  

Life is just like that. 

There may be something in our life that is giving off a bad odor.  As a Christ-follower, I desire to release a pleasing fragrance.  But to consistently do that, I need to be aware of my words, actions and behavior.  

Recently, I was caught up short when a friend and I were discussing shows we watched on television.  When I mentioned one that was in my list to record every week, she said, “Wow, I’m surprised you watch that.”  

Her words echoed in my head. 

After that, I watched each show with different eyes…that of a non-believer who was aware a believer would view it.  

I was shocked.  

My list of programs to record has been purged.  In fact, I don’t watch much television at all.  It’s not easy to find a decent show.  Hopefully the scent that is emitted from me is pleasing to even the non-believer.  

“Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God….” 2 Corinthians 2:15 (NLT)