Stanky!!!

This blog is a cross between a GROSS OUT ALERT and a NERD ALERT.

For a fat girl, I don’t sweat much. But since my surgery, I stink like a well used outhouse during a hot Georgia summer! Not that I sweat a lot, but what I do is VERY – shall I say odiferous?

I know that’s too much information, but keep with me here.

Thank the Lord I discovered Hibiclens which is an antibacterial and antimicrobial skin cleanser. It helps remove the stench for at least a few hours. I’ve also double checked the type of deodorant I am using, so that’s good.

But I’ve noticed the more pain I’m in, the stronger the smell. Intriguing. Hmm, I thought to myself. It’s time for a Dr. Google search!!!

Here’s the scientific truth of it.

When a person is stressed, anxious, or nervous, the body activates the apocrine glands. Those glands secrete a milky fluid which is odorless until it oozes out of the body onto the skin and meets up with bacteria. The more stress, the more stank! Or rather a more polite way of saying it – stink.

Oh. I should have mentioned the SERMON ALERT.

I got to thinking about physical stink. From there I got to thinking about stinky people. You know the ones – people who seem to relish getting on others’ nerves, the ones who complain about everything, those who criticize everything and everybody. Then I got to comparing the cause of my body odor and stanky people.

What causes people to be so unpleasant and downright odious?

So

Maybe instead of backing away from those types of people in disgust, we should ask for wisdom from God who is so much better than Dr. Google. Not that we should try to psychoanalyze people, but sometimes we can look past the obvious unpleasant behaviors to see the underlying needs. What pain in their lives is causing their harsh attitudes and actions?

Our own actions should not be a reflection of others’ angry deeds or words. As Christians we have a mandate to love others. Ephesians 4:32 ESV states we are to ‘be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving another as God in Christ forgave you.’

Sometimes, just a smile, a gentle touch, or a listening ear can change the trajectory of a person’s day. Sometimes, knowing and truly empathizing with another can show us practical ways to help. Of course, praying for another is a sure fire way to help someone. God answers prayers – NEVER forget that!

Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV ‘Therefore be imitators of God as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.’

By loving others, we can be ‘the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.’ 2 Corinthians 2:15 ESV

As I conquer my physical stink, may I remember to allow God to use me as His special, fragrant anointing to bless others.

Blessings

Kara Beth