SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1076

“Clay Pots”

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. – 2 Corinthians 4:7

I managed a big box garden center for several years and it was quite a learning experience. The Lord brought this experience to mind as I read our reference Scripture, specifically all the pottery associated with plants.

We had pottery that ranged from basic terra cotta to the very ornate. I recall that some of the most beautiful arrangements were done with non-descript pottery allowing the ‘treasure’ of the plant to be the focal point.

The focus must be the treasure, not the pot. And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplace. – Mark 12:38

We are clay pots. …for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” – Genesis 3:19

As Christians, born again by the Spirit of Christ, we have priceless treasure in our hearts. This treasure is the light, life, and power of the living presence of Jesus in us. Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. – Acts 4:13

Do we hide our treasure? Do we seek to blend in with the world of clay pots and hide the light of Christ? Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”… “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. – John 8:12; Matthew 5:14-16

Do we seek to glorify ourselves and usurp the glory that is due to God and God alone? Like an ornate pot do we take away from the glory of the treasure within? Your giftedness and abilities should always be used for the glory of God. For it is… Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. – Zechariah 4:6 and He must increase, but I must decrease.” – John 3:30

God’s Word exhorts us to ‘walk in Him’. Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him… – Colossians 2:6

Walking is an action word. We are to actively pour out the Living Water of Jesus and let His light shine in all the contexts of life on this earth. Light shines brightest when surrounded by darkness. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. – 2 Corinthians 4:6

May all recognize that you have been with Jesus and give glory to God.