How much are you worth? Is it measured by your possessions, your knowledge, your position or your natural gifts or skill set? Genesis 2:7 (NIV) the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. Obviously, we are worth more than the sum of our parts as long as we are alive. At times we feel and act like we are made of gold and other times nothing more than dust of the earth.
I’ve been reflecting on Paul’s words when pondering this question that were inspired by the Holy Spirit. 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NIV) But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. The point is that our value, even as a believer, is still limited to whatever a common jar of clay was worth in Paul’s day. What gives us such infinite value is what God has put within us. We must always keep in mind that distinctive difference. I, for one, confuse this from time to time. Unfortunately, I too often I focus on being only a jar of clay and not on the incredible treasure within. That is when I end up with reverse pride or ‘glorifying’ my weaknesses. The Holy Spirit woke me up to that recently, for which I am so grateful.
Jesus prayed, and certainly His prayer will be answered, John 17:23 (NLT) I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me. John later clarified that writing 1 John 4:15 (ESV) Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. Paul further clarified that writing Colossians 2:9-10 (ESV) For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. Try to get your mind around THAT!! I’m still struggling to even imagine in practical terms that kind of treasure dwelling in my clay pot!
When I consider Jesus walking in His humanity on this earth, I can’t imagine how the fullness of the Godhead could be residing within His humanity in a veiled condition. (Philippians 2:7) However that worked for Jesus works the same is true for us as we walk around with God inside of us!!! My humanity (clay pot) is my greatest inhibitor! So why is it I try to protect and lean so much more on my clay pot rather than on the stunning treasure within me? What kind of foolishness is that??
It is very intriguing to consider what happens when my earthen vessel begins to crack or be broken—feel some sort of pain. It would be in those times the awe-inspiring God within me is most likely to shine out so those around me can see His light. In this sense, I think I do understand why God would set up times when I feel pain. I also want to be willing to be broken so the world around me can see Who is in me. However, in my painful moments, my first tendency is to ‘close down’ or withdraw and feel sorry for my clay pot! Hum!! Those around me then only see my clay pot. Holy Spirit, PLEASE remind me when you are allowing me to be broken, that aching is purposed by You to glorify yourself IN ME! May the eyes of my understanding be enlightened so I may know the hope of Your calling and what the riches of the glory of your inheritance are in my life. Ephesians 1:18 (NKJV)
So Good! Thanks for sharing your heart.