2 Corinthians 1-6: A True Testimony

But 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 NIV

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.- 2 Cor. 4:16-18 NIV

For all of us, when we go through those tunnels of despair when it seems there is no end in sight, when we are overwhelmed with the deterioration of our bodies or the events unfolding around us, these words offer hope.  We are temporary vessels, jars of clay not meant to last, but to be used and used until we are used up.  Most of us fight being used all the way, but it is to no avail.  It is part of God's plan, that's what we're put here for.  The treasure is not the jar, but what resides inside.  The world is full of crystal vases that have nothing inside.  It is the common, everyday nature of our faith that displays God's glory. The way we walk through our trials is a truer testimony than any words we could ever say. 

2010 Post - 2 Corinthians 1-6:  Faith not Sight