Invincible Power In Clay Pots

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.

 

2 Corinthians 4:8-9

 

 

Paul's humility did not cripple or destroy him but instead strengthened him. Paradoxically, he found encouragement in his brokenness, because then the power of God flowed unhindered through him.

 

As we know, Paul was a mercilessly battered clay pot, whose many enemies sought to shatter him completely. He endured "afflictions… hardships… distresses… beatings… imprisonments… tumults… labors… sleeplessness… hunger" (See 2 Corinthians 6:4-5), and knew what it was to be "hungry and thirsty… poorly clothed… roughly treated, and homeless" (See 1 Corinthians 4:11).

 

Yet despite all his suffering, there was an aura of confidence about this noble servant of God, because though he lacked strength, the power of God flowed through him mightily. Paul's humanly unimposing persona posed an unanswerable question for his opponents: How could they explain the undeniable impact of his life?

 

Since he did not have the power in himself to accomplish what he had accomplished, the power must have come from God. And if Paul ministered in the power of God, he was a true servant of heaven, and his opponents' accusations against him were false. Paul's impact despite his lack of human giftedness was a powerful rebuttal to the false allegations leveled against him.

 

No one could withstand such an onslaught—as Paul did—in his own strength and still maintain joy and peace, let alone do the work of the ministry. The power of God enabled Paul to be fearless and formidable. God's sustaining power made it possible for an otherwise weak man to triumph over his difficulties and enemies (See 2 Corinthians 2:14).

 

Can this be found to be true of you?

 

Are you willing to be a clay pot that manifests the invincible power of God in your own life?