Treasures in Jars of Clay
"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).
Sometimes I feel like an empty, broken container with nothing left to offer anyone. Maybe I've stretched myself too thin with commitments, I'm exhausted, or I'm faced with physical, emotional, or mental limitations.
Reality Check. As a writer, I've experienced the dreaded "writer's block"—paralyzed at the thought of approaching a writing project. And the pressure of a deadline or my own expectations just adds to my misery. But whatever the reason for my emptiness or paralysis, I'm well-aware of my limitations and weaknesses.
Promises. I identify with the analogy in God's Word which refers to us as "jars of clay" (2 Corinthians 4:7). But the same verse tells us that we possess a "treasure" in (our) jars of clay." So, when I feel like a cracked, dry pot, I'm often reminded of promises from God's Word. Ephesians 1:14 assures believers of God's "promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance...."
Legacy. So, what do I have to offer anyone, especially the next generation? This treasure—God's Word in us—also provides the legacy we possess as our inheritance in Christ to pass down to the next generation through our faith stories.
Keep writing!
Sometimes I feel like an empty, broken container with nothing left to offer anyone. Maybe I've stretched myself too thin with commitments, I'm exhausted, or I'm faced with physical, emotional, or mental limitations.
Reality Check. As a writer, I've experienced the dreaded "writer's block"—paralyzed at the thought of approaching a writing project. And the pressure of a deadline or my own expectations just adds to my misery. But whatever the reason for my emptiness or paralysis, I'm well-aware of my limitations and weaknesses.
Promises. I identify with the analogy in God's Word which refers to us as "jars of clay" (2 Corinthians 4:7). But the same verse tells us that we possess a "treasure" in (our) jars of clay." So, when I feel like a cracked, dry pot, I'm often reminded of promises from God's Word. Ephesians 1:14 assures believers of God's "promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance...."
Legacy. So, what do I have to offer anyone, especially the next generation? This treasure—God's Word in us—also provides the legacy we possess as our inheritance in Christ to pass down to the next generation through our faith stories.
Keep writing!
Karen, thanks for this encouragement. I've been dealing with writers block, esp. as when it comes to working on my book proposal & manuscript after last Oct.'s conference. I appreciated your encouragement in Glorieta & I appreciate your encouragement through your blog. Blessings in Christ--
Shonda
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I guess we're walking the same path again, friend. Thank you for YOUR encouragement. Blessings on your book proposal and manuscript! Keep me posted on your progress.
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