The Beam Newsletter #8
Metaphors are used throughout the Bible to convey various truths about God that would otherwise be difficult to grasp.
2 Corinthians 4:7 is one example.
Jars of clay were common in ancient homes. They were cheap and easily broken. We, like jars of clay, are vulnerable beings with physical & emotional weaknesses, made from the dust of the earth. (Gen 3:19) Yet God has placed within us a glorious treasure which is the gospel of Jesus, the light of the world.
Why did God choose risky, earthen vessels instead of safe, heavenly ones? So that the supernatural power of God is released within our hearts in order to do amazing things that far exceed any human’s view or strength.
The same “wonder-working power” that it took to save us – this surpassing power – belongs to God! It has been streamed into our hearts supernaturally. Why would we hide that for ourselves? I ask myself, “What pathetic little bit could I accomplish on my own compared to what our AMAZING GOD can do?”
What JOY overcomes me as I marvel at His goodness, power and love poured out in just my life alone. He put my feet upon a rock when I had only shifting sand beneath my feet.
To God Be The Glory!!
How our Father loves to hear our praises!
We are not worthless to God!
“God uses ordinary people to do His extraordinary work!”
-Rich Milliken
What a blessing to be a Jar of Clay! Our cracks don’t have to be sealed up for Him to use us! The Light of God’s Glory will shine brightly if we follow after Him.
Let’s Be Clear!
It is important that we not confuse the Container with the Content!
He is the potter. . . I am the clay. God is our Creator. . . We are the created.
We almost always are attracted to a pretty package, but it may not contain the best gift. This treasure we carry is incorruptible & unbreakable. It is, in today’s vernacular, EPIC!
Are we excited to BE the vessels God intends us to be in order to humbly serve others as Jesus did? Our world is desperate for God’s HOPE and LIGHT right now!
Let’s Be REAL! What do we focus on every day?
- Is it the vessel, the container? Do we invest great effort in how good we look to the world, by its standards? Is our attention more on our busy lives than on God’s will for us, as revealed through His word and prayer? Do we tend to look to God mostly when a crisis hits? These questions matter!
- Or is it the treasure? Do we resolve to spend quality time with God daily, no matter what? Is He truly the Lord of my life and do I surrender daily to His will over mine? After all, He is the potter. . . I am the clay.
Dear Father God,
Forgive me when I forget who I am and the treasure You have given me. Thank You for such an amazing gift that lives within me. Help me not to be stingy with Your treasure which is intended for all to see. With Your help, Lord, I will no longer restrict the shining of Your ‘light beams’ from within my soul. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.