But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. — 2 Corinthians 4:7
Everything has a purpose — even our inadequacies.
Can I provide? No. Yes, I work hard, but I’ve discovered that working hard and working smart by themselves mean nothing. Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it work in vain. (Psalm 127).
Can I protect? No. Can I heal? No. So when I pray for someone and God heals their wounded heart, I know it wasn’t me. I couldn’t be me.
Can I instruct or encourage? No. Most of the time when I write these devotionals, I stare at the blank screen and don’t have a clue what to say. I read my Bible and feel like a dummy. What ever possessed me to think I could write something worth reading? Yet, many times I go back and read what was written, and say to myself, "Wow! I could never have written that!"
It seems like God spends a lot of time showing us that we really are jars of clay. But that is a good thing, because it helps us know where the really good stuff comes from. It comes from above.
And here’s the good part. Our heroes — Paul, Elijah, David, Peter, Moses — they were all jars of clay too. The same treasure that was in them is in us as well.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
To find out more about Dwight Clough, his books, his ministry, or to receive this devotional via email visit DwightClough.com. Dwight and his wife Kim are active members of Lake City Church in Madison.