Jars of Clay

II Cor. 4:7-10

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed but not driven to despair; persecuted but not forsaken; struck down but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.

It is amazing that God gave us Jesus to dwell in our bodies, in our jars of clay, that we would have within us a treasure beyond compare when our total worth is merely a jar of clay. Why? It says simply to show that the surpassing power belongs to God, a power that supersedes all other and encompasses everything. His power chooses to do such a thing to bring glory to Himself. For that very reason when we are afflicted, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down, we are never alone. We never give way under the pressure because not only do we carry the death of Jesus [death to sin and its crushing and defeating load] but we carry the life of Jesus [His resurrection power]. What heavy thoughts! Afflictions and persecutions are not just bad times, but they are opportunities to show God's power. Being perplexed and feeling struck down is no longer defeating and immobilizing, but is an opportunity to show the resurrection power of Jesus. Knowing this gives a reason for this pain and suffering, but does it make it easier to bear? Do I believe that His resurrection power brought life from death? Yes, then I must believe that this same power can impact my life giving me strength and grace to withstand and endure.

Father,
Continue to teach me the reality of these verses. Help me to rely on You and Your amazing power so that I may be a jar of clay that brings glory to You.
In Jesus name,
Amen