September 5, 2023

Like many of you, I love essential oils, aromatic plants, and sweet smells. According to scripture, it is apparent that God loves those smells too. As I read Exodus 30, I began looking up each aroma He required as incense in the Tabernacle. I started thinking I could grow those plants and make the same scent God wanted for the Tabernacle incense. Wouldn’t that be amazing? But then I kept reading, and it came with a warning not to create anything like it, or you would be cut off from your people, which means you would die! Even if I found those same plants, I probably couldn’t get the formula exactly right, but who wants to take that chance? The scripture says, 

“Whosoever compoundeth any like it, or whosoever putteth any of it upon a stranger, shall even be cut off from his people.” Exodus 30:33

That’s a strong warning, and even though Jesus redeemed the law, who wants to take a chance making God angry over luxurious smells? Certainly not me. 

I believe the incense was to cover the scent of all the blood and burnt offerings so the area was pleasant. Some of these plants God wanted used have medicinal properties and could be useful for healing. God doesn’t do things haphazardly; there is always a plan and a purpose, which includes plants for healing. Natural remedies may come in handy when certain industries are taken down for poisoning people. We need to learn as much as possible so we are not caught off guard.