In 2 Corinthians 4:7-14, talks about this precious treasure hidden in our earthen (human) vessels that many of us have not fully come to realize. What we possess as children of God, is something powerful and miraculous that if we come to understand what it is, we can be victorious in our life. In this chapter, it also goes on to say how we are pressed but, not crushed... perplexed, but not in despair... persecuted but, not abandoned... struck down but, not destroyed... Just like real clay jars that have been molded, they must go through a process where it is heated up in a kiln in order to strengthen, harden, and set their shape. God is continually molding us and shaping our lives to be a reflection of His image. So regardless of how frail and weak our physical bodies or minds may be or how much we find ourselves wanting to give up, we must keep in mind that during these trials, our spiritual bodies are being strengthened and perfected in Him that we can be a living testimony of His power and grace. What helps me whenever I'm feeling like the whole world is falling apart, is that I'm reminded that the same power that rose Jesus from the dead within us, the same power that healed the sick and made the blind see, the same power that created this universe, it is within us the moment we accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior. We have power to overcome every bit of oppression or adversity that comes to challenge us. When we acknowledge that power, we can find the strength to keep believing and pursuing God's grace to finish our course on earth regardless of our circumstances or challenges we face. That our "jars of clay" will never be shattered by earthly cares or worries, but will go through the fire so we can be strengthened and be used as a living testimony for others to know the power that is in Christ Jesus as we persevere and press on.
Challenge #17- Create a layout of a moment or time that you or someone you know has been tested and tried or has been through the fire. Share if you could, how your perseverance has paid off and how the Lord has used your experience to be a demonstration of God's power that was at work within you. Or if you are going through a difficult trial at the moment, you can create a layout acknowledging that you are this jar of clay being molded and transformed through the fire and to declare that power in Christ that is within you.
Faith Verses:
Romans 5:3 -"...But we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope."
2 Cor 4:7-10 - "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed--always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."
Eph 2:10 - "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
1 Peter 4:12 - "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."
Hope you could join in for this challenge! One of your layouts could be featured on our blog next Tuesday so don't forget to upload it the gallery here. Also, all are welcome to visit the Faith Discovery Challenge forums for any questions, comments, or discussion! Thank you!
Here are some layouts done by me and a few of our creative team members....
By Victoria
By Connie Jean
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