I consider myself a perfume connoisseur. I enjoy perusing perfume counters, boutique fragrances and “Duty Free” selections en route to finding the ideal scent(s) for me.
Typically, I’m drawn to bold aromas with a hint of sweet. I usually steer clear of woodsy types, especially those with floral overtones. After years of testing and wearing, I just know what works best on me.
In addition to the scent itself, presentation can seal the deal. I love a beautifully designed bottle with unique character. Each container, once carefully placed, serves a second purpose ~ decoration.
Although the outer shell pleases the eye, the value comes from what’s inside. If the inside didn’t compare to the outside, you wouldn’t find them perched on my vanity. When it comes down to it, the scent keeps me coming back, not it’s home.
Each year billions of dollars are spent on external upkeep. I have to admit I wash the gray right out of my hair and I’m diligent about skin care. I enjoy having my nails done and look forward to pedicures. I can exfoliate, pluck and moisturize with the best of them. Even so, as with perfume jars, I’m reminded what’s most important comes from inside me, inside us.
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. ~ 1 Peter 3:4,5 (NIV)
Outward adornment…
Hair, jewelry, clothing…
I enjoy them all, but know they’re all trumped by what’s inside. It’s the heart which matters.
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance,but the Lord looks at the heart.” ~ 1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)
With each pump of the nozzle, I wear what’s inside the bottle.
With each pump of the heart, I share what’s inside my shell.
Pleasant comments surround my choice of perfume and I’m asked its name. But what about what my heart pumps? Your heart pumps? Is it noticeable? Is its scent pleasing? Does it linger? Does it reflect our relationship with Him or only the adorned shell? Does it leave the hint of fruit in its wake?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.~ Galatians 5:22,23 (NKJV)
Today, as we spray our wrists, inner elbows, behind the knees (yes, some do) and neck with the perfume of our choosing, may we also coat ourselves in Him. May others begin asking about what’s inside your human bottle that causes you to “smell” differently, pleasant. What an amazing opportunity to share the sweet scent of salvation!
Blessed to link with Walk With Him Wednesdays, Word-Filled Wednesday and Living-Well Wednesdays
