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What IS That Smell?

As Christians, we know that sin in and of itself is deceptive. The biggest deception is the belief that the sin, whatever it may be, is undetectable and affects only the person committing the sin. A phrase from the book of Isaiah comes to mind, "Instead of fragrance, there will be a stench..." (Isaiah 3:24) Today, this phrase and the following analogy collided in my mind. Ponder this...

Smoking. Scripture tells us, "For the wages of sin is death." (Romans 6:23). The initial attraction for smoking should certainly be outweighed by the deadly side effects--respiratory failure, lung cancer and heart disease to name a few. No matter your sex, race or creed, whether you are rich or poor, or if you practice an alternative lifestyle, the same risks and side effects apply.

Under the weight and anxiety of sin, or the attempt to conceal a particular sin, breathing can feel like a difficult task. I often associate sin with cancer as it permeates, it kills. Obviously, transgressions bind up your spiritual heart as it becomes diseased. We know one cannot truly live spiritually with a sick, weak, and weary heart. As with smoking, everyone suffers the same consequence regardless of beliefs, race, gender, sexual preference, or social status.

As sin cannot be forever hidden, a smoker cannot mask the odor of smoking, though they do try. Breath mints, perfume or cologne, hand lotions, etc. are good intentioned, but ill-fated tactics. The smoke gets in your hair, on your skin, on your clothes even in the fabrics of your furniture and car seats. The nicotine stays on your breath and stains your teeth. The occasional cigarette may be easier to hide, but a habitual smoker smells like smoke. And so it is with habitual sin. You may be able to hide it for a while, but eventually the stench rises to the top and you begin to reek. Often times, those closest to you, can detect it right away. Selfishness, arrogance and pride, perversion, envy and jealousy are a few that come to mind.

Lastly, think about second-hand smoke. People who live with smokers are at a higher risk of heart disease and cancer. Infants are at a greater risk of ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and even SIDS. Your sin does not affect you solely. It has an effect on those around you and also those who are watching you--your spouse or significant other, your children, your siblings, those who look up to you, even your colleagues. When your kids are affected, the aftermath can affect their teachers, coaches, bus drivers, and school counselors.

When I think of smoking, I think of ashes. When I think of ashes, I think of death and destruction, such as it is with sin. Now, consider a person who has decided to quit smoking. They solicit the help of doctors and they often rely heavily on the support of family and friends and sometimes support groups are an option. I'm sure many pray, pray, pray for help to end the battle before it is too late. Those very same idyllic mechanisms can be implemented in your fight to conquer the unrighteousness in your life. The Great Physician is always on call and He is not only the prescription, but The Cure. Surround yourself with those strong in faith and who consistently and without fail will pray for you--not those who will condone the sin or make excuses for you. Tough love and accountability is the key in both situations. If possible, find someone who has overcome the very thing you are struggling to overcome.

One of my favorite stories of The Old Testament is the story of the three Hebrew children who were cast into the fiery furnace. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego found redemption in the midst of the fire. According to Daniel 3:27, their hair was not singed, their clothes not scorched, nor did they smell like smoke. This is the very same hope we have because of Christ. No matter the sin, if we trust Him and believe in Him for our forgiveness, we can walk out of any fiery pit without the stench of ash and sin! Isaiah 61:3 promises us "beauty for ashes." This passage brings me much comfort and hope. Oh, how He loves you and me!



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