STEWARDSHIP DEVOTION

Scripture Reading:
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9).

The Power of the Word
The Word of God has been described in many ways, but each description carries the connotation of worth and value and power. The Word, we read in Hebrews 4:12, is “living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword . . . ” The prophet Isaiah declared that the Word that goes out of our Lord’s mouth “will accomplish what [He] desire[s] and achieve the purpose for which [He] sent it” (Isaiah 55:11). By the word of His mouth, God created the heavens and the Earth (Genesis 1:1, 3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26). God Himself called His word a fire and a hammer (Jeremiah 23:29). In Ephesians, Paul wrote about the Armor of God, topping off all the defensive weapons God gives us with one offensive weapon, “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” (Ephesians 6:17).
In our reading, we find Paul describing the Word as a “treasure” in “jars of clay.” This great treasure is God’s Word. It lives inside us; it strengthens us; it encourages us; it gives us hope; it never fades away; it enables us to persevere. Indeed this is a treasure!
Many don’t know that this treasure exists. They may have it beautifully leather-bound and on a shelf in their homes, but they don’t realize they have a priceless treasure in their possession. It is up to us who have this treasure to share it, for it can never be used up, never decrease in value, never lose its newness and vitality.

Discussion Thoughts:
1. Read Hebrews 4:12-13. What does the Word have power to do?
2. Scan Matthew 24:1-35. Why is verse 35 such a great climax to this section of Scripture?
3. Discuss ways Christians can share our “treasure in jars of clay” with those who don’t know about God’s Word.

Prayer: Almighty God, we praise and thank You for this great gift You give us – the gift of Your Word. Let it be to us the greatest treasure we have. Let us always be grateful and never take for granted our privilege to read and study it, to hear it preached and taught. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.