2 Corinthians 4 -- Being The Pot

We are like jars of clay – worth nothing by themselves.  “But it is the treasure within the vessel that gives the vessel its value,” my commentary said.  “No Christian should ever complain to God because of his lack of gifts or abilities … Psalm 139:13-16 indicates that our very genetic structure is in the hands of God.  Each of us must accept himself and be himself.  The important thing about a vessel is that it be clean, empty, and available for service … We are vessels so that God might use us.  We are earthen vessels so that we might depend on God’s power and not our own … Paul was not afraid of suffering or trial, because he knew that God would guard the vessel so long as Paul was guarding the treasure.”

 

As weak vessels, we must be careful not to think that we can live any way we please, and that God will guard us even in sin.  “God can and does turn suffering into glory, but he cannot turn sin into glory.  Sin must be judged, because there is no glory in sin.

 

Father, I’ve got an old clay pot that should remind me of myself.  It’s fragile and easily damaged.  But I love the thought that what makes the clay vessel valuable is not itself but the treasure inside.  Thank you for filling me with that treasure and giving me worth as a result – not of myself but of Christ.  Where I was unworthy, You have giving value and meaning to my life.  Help me to help others to discover that as well!

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford