We Are Jars of Clay

According to this scripture, we are ‘jars of clay’ or ‘earthen vessels’ (KJV). What exactly does this mean? In Bible times, most people had dishes, bowls, cups and water jars made of clay. Only the kings could afford gold or silver dishes and cups. So, the ordinary people had jars that could crack, develop leaks or shatter if they were dropped. Their containers also did not look as beautiful as gold or silver. However, they were still useful.

Similarly, we are ordinary people, who may not shine like gold or silver, but God can still use us. In a way, it keeps us humble to realise that we are not perfect. We need God’s power to shine from within us to make us beautiful in character. In fact, our imperfection showcases God by contrast. If we were perfect, we would not need Jesus.
To hinder us from being useful, the devil tries to get us to focus on our lack of beauty spiritually. This causes us to focus on ourselves and we often feel unworthy and not good enough for God to use. As a result, we are not open to the good works which God has planned for us to do (Ephesian 2:10).

A story goes that the sun said to the moon, “You do not have to be whole to shine.” What an encouragement for us! We do not need to be perfect for God to use us. The moon’s light is a reflection of the living sun’s energy. It does not have any true light of its own. In the same way, we are the reflection of the living Son’s glory. The light or treasure in us is Him and God wants us simply to let His light shine!

We all carry an atmosphere around with us. It could be sadness, anger, or joy; and people react to it. For example, haven’t we all at some time avoided certain people because they are draining or depressing to be around? Conversely, aren’t we attracted to people who cheer us up and encourage us? Similarly, we need to do a check on our own atmospheres.
If we carry the light of God in us, people will unconsciously feel His power and He will impact their lives, often without us even knowing. It just flows through us because we are ‘vessels’ and He is the living water. It often also creates an atmosphere for others to feel that we are approachable and that we have something inside us which they need.

Prayer: Thank You, Father God, that it is Your light and love and power within us that touches the hearts of other people. Help us, Holy Spirit, to open ourselves up that You may move through us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.