Encouragement for Your Week: Oct.26-Nov. 1

This Week’s Verse

But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
—2 Corinthians 2:14 ESV

Devotion

In Roman times, when a general won a major battle, he was honored with a great parade called a triumphal procession. The streets of Rome would fill with cheering crowds as the general rode through the city in a chariot. Soldiers, treasures, and even captives from the war followed behind. Along the way, incense was burned, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. The whole event celebrated the general’s victory and power.

Paul uses this image to explain what life in Christ looks like. He highlights three important truths:

First, life in Christ is like being led in a victory parade. Jesus is the conquering general who has defeated sin and death. Because of His victory, everything has changed for the better. Our role is to follow Him, giving Him the praise and honor He deserves as we live in the joy of His triumph.

Second, life in Christ is a life of surrender. Before knowing Him, we were His enemies—enslaved to sin. But Jesus has set us free and claimed us as His own. Unlike the prisoners who followed Roman generals in defeat and shame, we follow Jesus in freedom and joy, celebrating what He has done for us.

Finally, life in Christ is a life that spreads His presence everywhere. Just as incense filled the streets of Rome, our lives spread the “fragrance” of Christ wherever we go. God uses us to share the good news with others, showing them the joy and hope of living under a better Master.

Because of this, we can give thanks to God. We aren’t just spectators—we are joyful participants in Christ’s triumphal procession!

This Week’s Challenge

Look for one way this week to “spread the fragrance of Christ” in your surroundings—whether through a kind word, an act of service, or sharing your faith with someone.