Not from ourselves

Today’s Encouragement is 2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT 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.

Not from ourselves-

When we live, as best we can, a life led by God’s grace and love, we are transformed into the image of Christ, we begin to exhibit Christ-like behaviors.  We don’t ever fully become like Him in this life, but we do change, growing in the direction of His life and His character. (See Romans 12:2).

And yet my friends, we are still in this world and our character is still, and always will be far from perfect. We grow toward Him, but in this life, we still fall short in every way… and this shortfall – Jesus fulfills! 

We are like fragile, ordinary, clay jars or pots containing His Glory! Every person, including the most devout believers, is still just an ordinary clay jar.  Even Billy Graham!  Mother Teresa described herself as “only God’s pencil”. 

Yet, within these clay jars of human frailty, the treasure of God’s presence, His Holy Spirit living within us, is shining forth in, through, and from our hearts and lives! The light of His Love and Grace cannot be contained! 

If you see any good in other believers, remember- it is Christ!  Please do not expect perfection from pastors, teachers, leaders, or anyone… you will always be disappointed. Instead, look for the work of His Spirit in them, the Light within, and that Light resides within all who believe, including you!  Look to the Light! He is present and He is available!

I see the Light

Bethel Music and Kalley