Natural Fragrance of Virtue - Humility and Living for God

# "Where There Is Fragrance, It Naturally Spreads"

In Chinese, "hữu" (有) means "to have" — to exist. "Xạ" (麝) simply means "fragrance" — this word originates from an animal similar to a musk deer with a musk gland that secretes a distinctively fragrant scent in southern China. And "tự nhiên hương" means natural fragrance—a scent that radiates naturally, spreading on its own without external influence.

Thus we have the idiom "Where there is fragrance, it naturally spreads," which comes from Chinese tradition. The literal meaning of this idiom suggests that if something possesses its own fragrance, it will naturally radiate and attract others. Metaphorically, it means that people of talent and good character will be loved and respected by others without needing to boast or show off.

An illustrative story of this idiom tells of a skilled carpenter in a small village. He carefully selected the finest wood in each step of his work, creating beautiful products of value. He worked in silence without boasting to anyone. Through word of good reputation spreading far, even reaching the royal court, the king learned of him and came to see the masterpieces with his own eyes. The king was pleased and invited the carpenter to work in the palace. Without self-promotion, his talent was still recognized and treasured by everyone.

The Bible also contains a passage with a similar meaning to this idiom, found in Proverbs 27:2: "Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips." This is not merely advice but a philosophical way of living: humility, modesty, sincerity, knowing how to live in harmony, without self-pride—not elevating yourself because you are more talented than others. Instead, we must use the talents God has given us to serve others; and through this, people will come to know and love us—where there is fragrance, it naturally spreads!

This truth of living helps us reflect upon ourselves and examine how the Lord has taught us. We must humble ourselves before God, for we are nothing. All have sinned, and if not for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who redeemed us from death and hell, we and all our works would be meaningless. Jesus reminded us: "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted" (Matthew 23:12); "For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted" (Luke 14:11). Whatever talents or grace we possess, they are given by God. Do not boast or exalt yourself, but let others praise you, through which they recognize His power and give glory to God. "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up" (James 4:10). Wait patiently for the day of Christ's return, when He will give us just reward. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time" (1 Peter 5:6).

Let us imitate Jesus Christ, who is the most humble and lowly One, worthy of our emulation. "And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:8). He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, the Creator, yet He humbled Himself unto death, boasting of nothing; though He could do all things, possesses all things, is infinite and boundless! What then are we before Him? Always remember the example of Jesus Christ, live in humility, and please the Lord!

Regarding our brothers and sisters, we must respect one another and not consider ourselves wiser than anyone else. If we have more than enough, we should help those in need. Do not be arrogant, saying "I have everything," and cause division in the House of the Lord. "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited" (Romans 12:16). "Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor" (Proverbs 29:23).

God's Word teaches us that we can only boast about God, about what God has done in our lives, such as: sharing the Gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ, the changes God makes in us daily, His blessings, providence, and supply to us. "This is what the Lord says: 'Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,' declares the Lord" (Jeremiah 9:23-24). Let us boast about Jesus Christ, about His eternal love, His incarnation, suffering, and resurrection for all people. These are the things we should boast about, praise, and honor Him for; only He is worthy to be made known to all people! "I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice" (Psalm 34:2).

May the Lord show us our own faults and shortcomings, so that we may live in humility, repent before God, live with modesty, and be grateful to Him for all the good things He has given us. Help us to live in service and love for one another, without boasting or pride that causes discord among us. And most importantly, strengthen us, give us wisdom, and embolden us to testify of our faith in Him, of His plan of salvation, and His unconditional love for all people! Amen!

*Looking upon the cross on high,*

*Grateful for Christ who came to earth!*

*Boasting of the glorious cross,*

*His Way, His Truth for all mankind!*

*Boasting of love so high,*

*Almighty, omnipresent, eternal and unchanged!*

*Boasting of God's work each day,*

*Creation and all things turning as ordained!*

*Boasting of His holy name with majesty,*

*Everywhere, always, all-knowing and providing care!*

*Boasting of God's blessings vast,*

*Peace eternal guarding all our hearts!*

(excerpt from the poem, "Boasting About God")

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