Significant people, the ones that make a lasting mark on this earth, usually do great things in the midst of adversity. I have a friend that has spent a significant amount of time battling for his life. Cancer has been a personal battle for several years; however, his focus is serving others. His service is his legacy.
How do we live beyond adversity?
As Paul wrote the second letter to the Corinthian church, he described his body as a clay jar. Despite the constraints of his marred and easily broken clay jar, Paul experienced power through the abiding presence of God that enabled him to live out his life in service.
Meditate on Paul's epiphany (realization):
Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God's grace that was given me by the working of his power. (Ephesians 3:7, NRS)
But he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. (2 Corinthians 12:9, NRS)
Clay jars are weak and easily broken, but through the power of God, it is possible to leave a legacy that impacts others. The power of God enables us to carry out a life of service regardless of constraints, obstacles, and adversity. It comes down to a choice. Will we be held captive by the weakness of the clay jar or liberated and empowered by the power of God within the clay jar?
Leave a legacy that matters.
Refuse to be dictated by the limitations of the clay jar.
Consciously choose to experience the liberation and power of God within the clay jar each day.
Learning with you to refuse to be limited by the clay jar,
Shalom,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2008 All Rights Reserved)
