As I read the book of Numbers in the Bible, it amazes me how many feasts and sacrifices God calls the Israelites to perform. There are numerous sacrifices of animals required in God’s ordinances as atonement for their sins. I can imagine the smell of these sacrifices permeating the camp. The Israelites would have a pungent reminder of their need to atone for their sin and of their obedience to God’s law.
Repeatedly in these verses, this phrase appears: “You shall present a burnt offering to the LORD as a soothing aroma (Numbers 29:8, NASB).” It was a physical sign, an action on the part of the Israelites to show their obedience to God. It was also a testimony to other nations of the Israelites devotion to God. It was a visible sign of the cost of atoning for their sin and their desire to follow God’s ways. The same holds true today.
While animal and grain sacrifices are no longer required, God still seeks that pleasing aroma of sacrifice in our lives through our obedience to Him and His son Jesus. Our actions of obedience demonstrate our faith in Jesus and our desire to follow God. As Paul wrote: “For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing (2 Corinthians 2:15, NIV).” When we make sacrifices for our faith in God, it is a fragrant offering of us abiding in Him.
© 2026, Chris G. Thelen
140 Character Christian 