Forever Home in the Eternal Family of God

Encouragement for the Family of God by Kenton Cheek

9 September 2025

Reading From II Corinthians 2

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledgeof him everywhere.  For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.”—II Corinthians 2:14-15

If you have been born again by the Spirit of the Living God, then you are part of that joyous, triumphal procession of Christ. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and His is the grandest parade the universe has ever known. As we make our way through life in this present reality we find ourselves in, we are not only to spread His knowledge and wisdom, but do so in a way that exudes love and the all the fruit of the Spirit.

Spending time with a Christian should be a positive, uplifting experience, not a drag or even worse, harmful or hurtful. Followers of Jesus should not only build up the faith of their brothers and sisters, but also reach out in love to those who have not yet chosen to believe and receive Him as their Savior and Lord. Both discipleship and evangelism are vital purposes of the Church.

“Heavenly Father, fill Your children’s hearts to overflowing with love. We want to be Your pleasing aroma in the world around us; not overbearing, but pleasant. Show us how You would have us minister to those inside the fold and outside. May You bring many souls into Your Kingdom through us in Jesus’ strong and mighty Name I pray these things, Amen.”

 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.—Colossians 4:5-6