29th October 2025

A Pleasing Aroma

For we are to God the fragrance of Christ

among those who are being saved

and among those who are perishing.

2 Corinthians 2:15

Today's Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17.

In today's text, 2 Corinthians 2:15, the Apostle Paul is using imagery of a Roman victory parade to describe the ministry of the Gospel. Taking a closer look, we are told . . .

“We are to God the fragrance of Christ.” Paul is saying that believers—especially those spreading the Gospel—are like a sweet-smelling aroma to God. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were often described as a “pleasing aroma” to God. Paul uses this to say that the life and work of believers reflects Christ and pleases God.

“Among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” The Gospel message goes out to everyone, both: those who accept it (being saved), and those who reject it (perishing). The fragrance is the same, but how it's received differs depending on the heart of the hearer. Paul may have been alluding to a Roman triumph parade, where: Victorious generals paraded captives through the streets. Incense was burned along the route, symbolising victory and power. To Romans, it smelled like victory, but to the captives, it was the smell of defeat and death. Likewise, the message of Christ is: Life to some, Judgment to others.

As Christians live and share the Gospel, they “carry the fragrance of Christ.” It’s not our job to change the reaction people have—only to remain faithful in carrying that fragrance. The life of every Christian believer should reflect Christ in such a way that His presence is noticed everywhere we go.

Prayer: Dear Lord God, let my life be a sweet fragrance of Christ to everyone I encounter, drawing hearts to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

28th October 2025

Divine Recall

I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed the pillar

and where you made a vow to Me. . .

Genesis 31:13

Today's Bible Reading: Genesis 31:1-21.

Have you ever found yourself far from where you once met God? Jacob had encountered God powerfully at Bethel—he had seen heaven open and heard God's promise over his life. But now, years later, he was in a foreign land, surrounded by strife and uncertainty. In the middle of it all, God reminded him: “I am the God of Bethel.”

God was calling Jacob back—not just geographically, but spiritually. Back to where faith began. Back to where promises were made. Back to relationship.

Maybe you have wandered, too. Life pulls us away, distractions pile up, and the voice of God can feel distant. But like Jacob, you are not forgotten. The same God who met you before is still calling your name.

And if you have never known Him, God is still saying, “Come.” If you hear His call today, Jesus Christ made a way back to God through the cross. He calls you to arise and leave behind the land of sin, shame, and striving—And come (to return) to the One who created you, loves you, and paid the price for your salvation.

Will you answer His call today?

Prayer:   Lord God of Bethel, bring me back to You. I believe Jesus died for my sins and rose again. I turn from my old life and follow You. In Christ's name. Amen.

27th October 2025

Friendship

There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

Today's Bible Reading: John 15:9-17.

Friendship is one of life’s greatest treasures. Everyone, regardless of background or belief, agrees on its value. Just like fire, water, or air, friendship is essential to a fulfilling life. A person may live in isolated pride, but without friendship, life becomes hollow—more of an existence than true living. Joy and hope tend to wither where no genuine connection is found.

But while true friendship brings comfort, false friendship can bring deep pain. The closer someone is to us, the more it hurts when they prove unfaithful. Trust that is broken often leaves the deepest wounds. That’s why faithfulness is the foundation of any real friendship. We cannot rejoice in a relationship unless we know someone will stand by us through life’s storms.

Solomon, after experiencing the emptiness of worldly pleasures, wrote of a different kind of friend—“one who sticks closer than a brother” This isn’t someone found in fleeting pleasures or shallow circles. It’s a friend who never fails.

Ultimately, this friend is the Lord Jesus. He is faithful when others fail, near when others abandon, and constant even in our darkest moments. Earthly friendships may falter, but Christ remains steadfast. To know Him is to never be truly alone.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for being the Friend who never leaves me. Help me reflect Your faithfulness in my friendships today. In Jesus' name. Amen.