Today’s passage: 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Helpful thoughts:
- “Jars of clay” is a figure of speech referring to human weakness. We are frail, easily breakable. Yet, with God’s power working in us, “we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed…struck down, but not destroyed.”
- These are not words that describe jars of clay. We persevere due to the power of God in us.
- Being followers of Jesus, even our dying can be used for good and for the good of others.
- For the Christian, our physical death is simply a part of the process in our eternal life.
- When hardships come, when we endure trials, tribulations, persecutions, even death…we know these things are all temporary. They are obstacles in the path that God will get us over and will turn for our good. We’re going to be with God forever.
Questions to consider:
- Why might a person be offended to be called a “jar of clay?” Why is it so important we remember that’s what we are?
- How does knowing who God is and who we are give us the right perspective to live life well? How does it lead to our proper understanding of the gospel and repentance? How does it produce greater joy and rest of spirit in us?
- How long will eternity be? How can thinking about eternity with the Lord help you endure your days on this earth?