12 June - 2 Corinthians 4

We’re reading 2 Corinthians 4 together today. There are a couple interesting things to talk about, so let’s jump in:

1. In the beginning of this chapter Paul talked about how he tried to tell people about Jesus in a way that everyone could understand it. 
2. Then Paul talked about ‘treasure’ in ‘jars of clay.’ He was referring to his own body (the jar of clay) and the message of Jesus (the treasure). Paul described how he went through various difficulties because he preached about Jesus but it was totally worth it because enduring them gave him the opportunity to offer real life to others (see verse 12). 
3. At the end of this chapter Paul gave us a clearer understanding of why he was able to not only endure all his sufferings but to enjoy them. He was focused on eternity not just the moment he was in. The Bible teaches us that we will all live forever after we leave this life, either with Jesus or apart from him. Eternity, the idea of existing forever, is something we can’t fully grasp but the Bible tells us it’s a reality we have. Paul pushed through the difficult times in his life so he could tell more people about Jesus in order to present them with an opportunity to spend eternity with Jesus as well.

If you’re a follower of Jesus the tough times you’ve gone through or are currently facing can be used to help other people. Have you ever thought that perhaps God can use your difficulties to help someone understand him a little better? Could this thought help you face them with a bit more patience? If you had the same focus Paul had would that help?