A Treasure in Earthen Vessels

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed - always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."
(2 Corinthians 4:7-10)

"...we have this treasure in earthen vessels..."

What message is Paul conveying to us?

Our body is an earthen vessel which contains a glorious treasure - the POWER of the Holy Spirit! Yes, on our own we are weak in the midst of trials, but friends, GOD is working IN us - we are not left to our own devices!

Are you having a bad day, a bad week? Maybe you are in a season of sorrow and struggle. This can be so overwhelming - I know. Yes, I know.

But take hold of this truth: No matter how hard it gets, you will not be destroyed, you will not be forsaken! It is the power of God within you, sustaining you, giving you strength.

And what is on the other side of your despair? The manifestation - the evidence - of Jesus Christ in your life.

And the caveat? Not only will the world see Jesus in you - His grace, His love, His power, but YOU will see Jesus face to face. You will have a new understanding of His suffering. You will have a new understanding of His resurrection power.

And you will count your faith more precious than gold.

Ah Lord God, You have made the heavens and the earth and still - AND STILL - You dwell within us!! Your power, Your grace, Your love abound in the hearts of Your children. Thank You, Father. Thank You for loving us enough to fight our battles for us. Help us grasp this truth - to walk in the knowledge of Your power and strength within us. You, Lord, are worthy of our praise!