Ordinary Influencers
But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair. 2 Corinthians 4:7-8

It wasn't a point I belabored yesterday during the sermon, but it's what grabbed my personal attention as I studied this text. God taught Paul through experience that he didn't need to be driven to despair, regardless of how bad his circumstances were. Back in Chapter 1, Paul wrote, "For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death." But he continues, "But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead (2 Corinthians 1:8b-9). God's purpose in our afflictions often is to drive us to this conclusion.

In the original language of the New Testament, the word that is usually translated as "perplexed" literally means "at a loss for a way." This word describes a condition where we are in a situation but cannot see any way out. 

Are you feeling perplexed about circumstances in life? Don't let it drive you to despair. Respond like the Psalmist, who was very much experiencing perplexing times when he wrote, "When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul." The New Living Translation says it this way: "When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer" (Psalm 94:19)

The Bible never calls us to deny the reality, pain, or seriousness of situations we encounter in life. But the faith God gives His children allows us to know that Jesus is with us in it. He cares. He comforts. He has a plan. The jar of clay will get cracked, but new streams of light will flow out of the damage. Our influence for Christ's kingdom will grow as others see that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.