~Cracked Pots~

For this reason I am happy when I have weaknesses, insults, hard times, sufferings, and all kinds of troubles for Christ. Because when I am weak, then I am truly strong. 1 Corinthians 12:10

Yes, God's power is a mighty, prevailing force that cannot be withstood by His enemies. Job 42:2


In my quiet time today I read:

*God uses "cracked pots" to minister. "We have this treasure from God, but we are like clay jars that hold the treasure. This shows that the great power is from God, not from us" (2 Corinthians 4:7). Isn't it amazing who God can use to change the world? He can use people like you and me!

*God leads through humility: "But he gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born to be a man and became like a servant" (Phillippians 2:7). In God's desire to have a relationship of love with His people, He doesn't boss them around, but serves them. In emptying himself of power, He conquered the power of death.

*God sacrifices himself. "In the same way, the Son of Man did not come to be served. He came to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many people" (Mark 10:45). The earth shook and the skies went black in the moment of Jesus' death. But what appeared to be defeat was actually the hour of victory. It was then that Jesus "destroyed death" (2 Timothy 1:10).

*God never forsakes us: "I will never leave you; I will never forget you" (Hebrews 13:5). Only Jesus experienced the horrific moment when God turned His face from His dearly beloved Son. That allowed the rest of us to live with the confidence and assurance that He is always present in our lives. That means we are connected to the ultimate source of power.

*God is at work in the invisible: "God's Spirit, who is in you, is greater than the devil, who is in the world" (1 John 4:4). No, God does not always announce His power with a fireworks display or other impressive signs and wonders. But where life matters the absolute most, in the spirit realm, God has already won and assured the victory we need to live with Him forever.

There is no danger, no enemy, no circumstance that can equal God's power in our lives.

This life here on earth is temporary. Whatever trials, problems, sufferings, etc. that we experience here in the long run don't matter. This is a stepping stone. Yes, there will be trials. There will be bumps in the road and mountains to climb. But, there is a bigger picture. We have so much more to look forward to. In the end, none of this will matter!