GQM One Focus: LIVING OUT PURPOSE

"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. But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us." —2 Corinthians 4:6-7

Paul exhorts his readers that, even though there is great difficulty in their ministry, he is encouraged (2 Corinthians 4:1). He acknowledges that in his ministry he had received mercy and that they are not losing heart. They have confidence because they are walking in the truth of God's Word and not in their own cleverness or craftiness (2 Corinthians 4:2). Because their confidence is in His truth and not their own ability, they are able to fulfill their ministry with good conscience even as God could observe their actions (2 Corinthians 4:2).

As God uses broken and imperfect people, we can also be encouraged that God can use us to accomplish important things and that, when we use the tools He provides, the power is not our own, but His. We are simply earthen vessels / jars of clay; the treasure is God's gift inside.