Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read 2 Corinthians 4:1, 5-15.
The Apostle Paul spends a lot of time talking about vulnerability. Throughout his letters to the early Christian communities, he speaks of difficult times when he was challenged or even fell short of who God called him to be. I believe Paul wanted these early Christians (as well as us later Christians) to know that following Jesus was not always easy, and that they and indeed all of us would have to deal with hard seasons and tough times. I find it comforting to know that Paul dealt with occasional setbacks and difficulties - many of which he wrote about in his correspondence.
In Corinthians, Paul didn’t write about his sufferings and tribulations simply to gain sympathy or claim to be a super Christian. He used these times of trial and tribulation to draw attention to the one who gives us the power to endure. “For we do not proclaim ourselves, we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord.” (v. 5a) Paul also reminds us that even in our times of brokenness, we still can share the grace of God. “But we have this treasure in clay jars so it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.” (v. 7) We’re reminded that God is always with us - not only in the good times but especially so in the tough times.
It can be hard to admit our own vulnerability and brokenness. But I am convinced that God uses even our broken places to build up the kingdom.
Personal Worship Option:
How are you sharing the good news? Are you allowing your life to be a witness to God’s grace?
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