God Uses Cracked Pots

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“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7

CRASH! My favorite piece of pottery had just hit the floor by way of my rambunctious 2 year old. It was cracked in several places. The cracks were obvious no matter what direction I turned it. Would it ever be of any use again?

I love all the scripture passages referring to God as the “Potter” and humanity as the “clay”. I find such comfort in seeing myself in His Sovereign hands, knowing nothing comes into my life that hasn’t first passed through His mercy.

In this passage, Paul calls Christians “jars of clay” and says we are filled with treasure. But, how are others to see this treasure if it is in an opaque jar of clay? Clay pots are not transparent like glass. How is the world to see the Treasure of Christ inside? The only way the world can see the treasure of Christ is when we are cracked or even broken in places and we allow the glory of Christ to shine out. God uses suffering in our lives to bring glory to Himself and to encourage others. Suffering is never without purpose.

When we are suffering, God doesn’t call us to be a martyr or to be stoic. He calls us to show others our “cracks”. We honor Christ through our suffering when we invite others in to share in our struggles so they will also share in His glory.

God still uses “cracked pots”! Will you use your suffering for His glory? Or will you turn your pot around, hoping no one will see the cracks? When we hide our cracks, we hide His glory. Let Christ’s glory shine through you today.