Treasures In Fragile Clay Pots

We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Eastern kings of ancient times used to store all their treasures in earthen pots. A crude tin lamp can cast a bright light and a tattered book can contain lofty thoughts − in the same way these plain earthen pots became the bearers of precious treasures. This is exactly what it is like in the kingdom of God: plain fishermen became disciples; the bearers of God's treasures. Paul compares our lives to these earthen vessels in which we carry the glorious message of the Gospel of Christ. Life surrounds us with problems and obstacles, while Christ surrounds us with His glory. The earthen vessel is the image of human frailty and mortality, of fallibility, contamination and impurity, but it is also an image of the Potter's ability to recreate our lives with His hands, to the glory of God. When God calls us as disciples, we shrink back because we are so intensely aware of our imperfection. But the King is sovereign and does with His clay pots as He wishes. God does not necessarily call the ones that are capable, but He empowers those He calls. We may never lose the sense of awe at the realization that God uses us − sinful as we are − to bear His treasures! We may never draw attention to ourselves instead of focusing on God. The glory of your life must always be God's. You must live to be His witness and let His glory shine through.

Gracious Master, please make me worthy of bearing Your treasures so that You will receive all the glory and honor. Amen.

Solly Ozrovech