So many times we complicate the things of God. 

We have a tendancy to define spiritual truths with formulas. 

Well, in Paul's letter to the Ephesians he takes away much of the mystery & implies that it is all about following Him. 

You see, Jesus gave Himself!  He didn’t give Himself “to us.” What I mean is, He didn't give Himself "to people" for the Father, but rather, He actualy gave Himself to the father “for us.”

Many pastors and leaders live frustrated lives allowing the circumstances and issues of the people to determine wether or not they walk in joy.  If we give ourselves to the people and our endeavors “for God” we limit ourselves to our own ability to walk in love.  The effects of walking in love in our own strength are deficient and the joy of ministry is lost.

When we have given ourselves to God first, the common acts of love become infused with the fragrance of Christ.  Your simple act of love “for” the people causes the recipient to experience a divine encounter with love Himself.

Ephesians 5:1-2 says, "Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us, and gave Himself 'for us' an offering and a sacrifice 'to God' for a sweet smelling aroma."

-Pastor Duska Annis