In this week’s Tuesday Thoughts, the focus is on the positive reinforcement of what people can be when they feel down and out.
Once upon a time, a coal miner was walking back home with two old, dirty, clay jars. A man pulled over and offered the guy a ride, and he accepted. He held those clay jars close to his heart as he looked out the window. “Those are some old things there,” the man said, smirking as he drove. “What you gonna put in those? They look like they could break at any moment.” The old miner smiled and said, “Well, they are sturdy, and when I clean them up, I’m sure they’ll be beautiful. Sometimes things need attention with the right hands.”
The driver nodded in agreement. When the driver got the miner to the destination, he thanked him and said, “You made my journey shorter,” and left the vehicle. The man drove off, never knowing the content of the jars, not that it was any of his business anyway.
Inside the jars were precious gems found by the old miner. He took them and put them in the jars, knowing no one would look there for anything valuable.
(Courtesy of Pexels)
Tuesday Thoughts: God Made Us To Last
In the Bible, the Apostle Paul writes this in his second letter to the Corinthians:
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” -2 Corinthians 4:7
When we look at ourselves in the mirror, what do we see? Someone who’s coming up short in worldly success? Do you see yourself as useful to the people around you? Loved? Believe it or not, everyone is challenged by these thoughts. For the Believer, however, confidence, zeal, and energy are found in trusting the Lord Jesus Christ.
The reason we get up with a smile and work to maintain and protect, at times, our joy is because of knowing there is so much more to life than what is seen. Paul, when speaking with the Corinthians, uses the word picture of jars of clay to describe our bodies. While we all hold great knowledge and gifts of all sorts, those are only pebbles compared to the treasure we hold in being connected to God through Jesus Christ. Why clay jars? While they are strong, they are also fragile. Like those jars, we are physically fragile, but strong in our faith in Christ.
Tuesday Thoughts: 3 Calls To Action
The assignment from this week’s Tuesday Thoughts is easy:
- Remember you are valued in God’s eyes. God has given you everything you need to hold a great relationship with Jesus Christ and truly live out your life’s value.
- Do not ever think you’re a nobody. Wake up with the zeal of making your life happen, not copying someone else’s life. You have a road to walk, so walk it!
- Be the inspiration for others. We all have been those dirty clay jars the coal miner was carrying, but we can display so much more when we are cleaned up and shined. Just as Jesus cleaned you up, inspire others.
Tuesday Thoughts: A Short Prayer To Keep You Going
Dear Heavenly Father,
I know you’ve made me in your image. I know that I’m blessed and highly favored. Sometimes in this thing we call life, it can get complicated, depressing, and just frustrating. Help me to remember that I’m more than what people say. Help me to gaze upon the treasure inside me and remember I am valued by you, and I hold something so valuable that I shine like a light in a dark place all the time. Help me stay motivated, encouraging, and a blessing to others. Amen.
