2 Corinthians 4:7-10 (NIV) says,
"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."
In these verses, Paul is speaking about the ministry of himself and his fellow apostles. He describes their bodies as "jars of clay," which were fragile and easily breakable. However, inside these fragile vessels, they carried a treasure - the gospel message of Jesus Christ.
Paul says that the reason they have this treasure in such weak vessels is to show that the power that comes from their ministry is not their own but comes from God.
This highlights the fact that even though we are weak and fragile, we are still able to carry out the powerful work of God's ministry.
Paul goes on to describe the hardships and difficulties they face as apostles, including being hard pressed on every side, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down.
In the midst of these trials:
This is because they have the power of God working within them, sustaining them and giving them strength.
Overall, these verses serve as a reminder that even in the midst of trials and difficulties, we have the power of God within us to sustain and empower us in our ministry and in our lives. We may be weak and fragile vessels, but with God's power working in us, we can accomplish great things for His kingdom.
Amen!