We are like a clay pot. Like earthenware, we are fragile and can be cracked by the simplest of things. We are soft and pliable and can be molded into something of immense beauty. We are porous causing a transparency that allows the light in us to filter through for all to see. When put through the fire, we become stronger and can be used to contain the power of God. We are simple and common, but when we are handcrafted by the potter, we become a strong vessel that can be used by the king. God has so intricately made you to be His light, His vessel, His instrument of power and glory. You may see yourself as only a simple clay pot, but God sees you as His ultimate creation of strength, beauty and love. Remain soft and pliable, teachable and coachable. Continue to be transparent so others can see who you really are. Never quit, never give up but allow God to refine you in the fire and let God use you. You are a one of a kind masterpiece and you are spectacular!
We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.
That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. 2 Corinthians 4: 7-18
