In 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul gives and excellent description of the Christian life. He says ‘we have this treasure in earthen vessels’ (NKJV). The idea of our relationship with God being precious treasure in the earthy, very normal vessels of our lives is beautiful. It shows how much Paul valued God’s Spirit within Him. However, it doesn’t mean that our Christian lives will always be easy. When people notice treasure, they often bring trouble. After explaining how he and those around him are being persecuted, in verses 16-18 Paul continues by saying: ‘Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal’ (NIV). His ability to say that really is the result of a godly perspective. It’s only with Gods eyes that we can recognise the difficult things as opportunities for Him to shine. Our part in difficult situations is to pray for that incredible perspective, and then speak out with as much positivity as we can muster. In the same passage, Paul writes: ‘Life is at work in you. It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak’ (2 Corinthians 4:12-13 NIV). There’s something in speaking out truth that can help us believe in it more than ever. Let’s chase after the same faith in God’s goodness that Paul showed us, and speak it out to the world around us.

What Now?

Try praying out loud today. Whether you can find a chance to pray with Christian friends, or spend time by yourself, speak out positive truths that you believe.