Daily Devotion, January 20, 2021

 

Devotion:

Read 2 Corinthians 4:7-11.

In 2 Corinthians’ earlier chapters, Paul is defending his and Timothy’s identity as true and sincere ministers of Christ. They are in this for the glory of God and the power has come from God.

 

Chapter 4 begins with this continuing theme,“Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart,” through vs. 5, “For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus’ sake.”

Then verse 7 begins with this profound declaration clarifying God’s work through them. Imagine Paul speaking this aloud, “But we have this TREASURE in jars of clay to show that this ALL-SURPASSING POWER IS FROM GOD and not from us.” It helps us realize the grace of God to place this TREASURE AND POWER in fragile clay pots.

Paul continues in verses 8-9, with evidence of God’s power at work in their lives even though they are going through much suffering and many trials, yet they are not overwhelmed!

Dr. J. Paul Sampey writes, “Then Paul makes a double connection with Jesus: In his own body, Paul carries the death of Jesus (symbolizing Paul’s sufferings and afflictions as reflections of Christ’s death) so that the life of Jesus (a reference to Jesus Christ’s resurrection, which is the very basis of hope) may be shown forth“.

I hear Paul saying, “Do you really think that I could do what I am doing, enduring imprisonment, persecution, tribulations and threats of life with my own power? Do you really think that I would be compelled to bring this good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ to you in my own power? And referring back to Paul’s words in chapter 3: 2-3, I believe Paul would say, “The only way that a true difference could have been made in your lives is by the power of God. We were just the clay vessels of God’s power at work through us.”

Personal Worship Option:

God chooses to work through us, just simple human beings!!! Whatever God is calling you to do in the name of Christ for others today, God will give you the power to do that. For many of us, it is the little things we do, but which often can make a powerful difference in the lives of others. Lord, keep us connected to you and let all that we do be for your glory. Amen.