“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7).
Paul referred to the gospel as a treasure. The Living Bible states “this precious treasure—this light and power that now shine within us—is held in a perishable container, that is, in our weak bodies. Everyone can see that the glorious power within must be from God and is not our own.”
The NIV Study Bible includes this note: “It was customary to conceal treasure in clay jars, which had little value or beauty and did not attract attention to themselves and their precious contents.” In our verse “they represent Paul’s human fraility and unworthiness. The idea that the absolute insufficiency of man reveals the total sufficiency of God pervades this letter (to the Corinthians.)”
We are like light in clay jars. Clay doesn’t have the durability of other substances. It breaks easy. I’m reminded of the beautiful gospel song, “He Doesn’t Throw the Clay Away.” Thank God when our earthen vessel breaks He is there to mold and shape us back together like new. Even when we are broken, the light within is still there. Let your light keep on shining by the power of God. Treasure the fact you have the gospel message to share to a world still in darkness.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Do I have defined goals concerning personal evangelism? Memorizing Scriptures? “Lord, help me shine forth the light—the treasure in this clay pot you’ve given me. I know Your Word is a guiding light. Help me memorize and retain Scripture for the purpose of sharing.” Amen.
