In ancient times, jars of clay were created to hold a treasure, something of value for the owner. Clay jars were filled with vital necessities like water and food. Some contained expensive perfume, coins, or jewels. Other clay pots were designed as a lamp, filled with oil and a wick. Although the clay vessels held something of value, they were easily broken, worn, and cracked.
We are much like a jar made of clay. We are made in the image of God, by God, for a purpose, but our earthly body and mind are fragile, susceptible to becoming cracked, worn, and broken.
Circumstances in life bring us to the realization that we aren’t as strong and put together as we would hope to be. We attempt to hide our flaws and limitations through self-sufficiency, comparison, temporary patches of comfort, or pretending to be someone we aren’t.
But that was never God’s intention; He knew our efforts would never be enough, and He already had a plan. As children of God, He entrusts us with a precious and powerful treasure: the Holy Spirit. Every day, we have the choice to rely on our limited sufficiency or give way to God’s power in our lives. The more we honor this treasure within us, the more the all-surpassing power of God strengthens and shines through us.
You can honor the treasure by reminding yourself of this truth from God’s Word:
We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not abandoned, struck down but not destroyed.—2 Corinthians 4:7–9
Writing the verses on a notecard and referring to them throughout your day will allow the truth to travel from your head to your heart. As you take time to ground yourself in God’s Word, you will see the return on investment. God’s Word will bring strength and comfort even in your weakest moment.