Treasure

2 Corinthians 4:6-7 (ESV)

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.

I have placed my light within you. It is a glorious light, a light that cannot be overcome. It is a light that dispels darkness. I have placed it in you, who are jars of clay, so that the glory may be mine. 

Many of you, however, have become so focused on the fact that you are jars of clay, that you have hidden my light. You have become convinced that you are clay, and therefore, are not fit to shine my light, seeing yourself as having many flaws and cracks. You have become overwhelmed by the signs of weakness you see within yourself, and this has kept your light from the world. You fear that you will taint my light by diminishing it. You fear yourself. 

You have not understood that your weaknesses make my light shine brighter.  You have not understood that the fact that my light shines through imperfect, cracked vessels inspires hope, and brings such great glory to me.  

I am not afraid of your vulnerabilities.  

They do not disqualify you.  

They bring me greater glory when you lean on my strength. 

This is not the time to be hiding your light.  What you have within you is a treasure more valuable than silver and gold. Do not hoard it or keep it from those around you.  Arise and let my light shine forth. 

Activation: Ask Holy Spirit in which way he would like you to share the treasure that is within you today.

Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV) 

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.

Matthew 5:14-16 (MSG) 

Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep an open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.