Read 2 Corinthians 4:7–18
We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this allsurpassing power is from God and not from us.
2 Corinthians 4:7
Sometimes God permits our vessels to be jarred so that some of the
treasure will spill out and enrich others. Suffering reveals not only the
weakness of man but also the glory of God. Paul presented a series
of paradoxes in this paragraph: earthen vessels—power of God; the
dying Jesus—the life of Jesus; death working—life working. The natural mind cannot understand this kind of spiritual truth and therefore
cannot understand why Christians triumph over suffering.
Not only must we focus on the treasure and not on the vessel, but
we must also focus on the Master and not on the servant. If we suffer,
it is for Jesus’ sake. If we die to self, it is so that the life of Christ may
be revealed in us. If we go through trials, it is so that Christ may be
glorified. And all of this is for the sake of others. As we serve Christ,
death works in us—but life works in those to whom we minister.
Something to Ponder
When was the last time you felt “jarred” significantly—to the point of
almost breaking? How did you handle the situation?