The Treasure in Jars of Clay
(2 Corinthians 4:11-12)

Jesus died on the cross in our stead going through all the punishment and pain that ought to be ours. Redeeming us of our sins and inequities, He was risen from the dead and has become our treasure and the assurance of salvation. He is now within us who are just like a jar of clay.

1. Hard pressed on every side, but not crushed
- Though hard pressed on every side, we the jars of clay will not be crushed.
It is because we look to Jesus who is the treasure inside us, instead of the circumstantial pressure so that the power of life of Jesus nullifies all kinds of pressure including the pressure from sins and inequities, diseases, curses, death, and so on.

2. Perplexed, but not in despair
- Though perplexed due to the laborsome burdens and problems of life, we will not be in despair.
Jesus has overcome all of these on the cross and He lies in us so that the power of life will make us courageous, strong, and powerful only if we look to, believe in, and long for Jesus.

3. Persecuted, but not abandoned
- Though persecuted and marginalized with no friend or lovers, we will not be abandoned in solitude as we have Jesus, the best friend.

4. Struck down, but not destroyed
- Though struck down, we will not be destroyed as the treasure within us is the resurrection of life.

Jesus is the resurrection and life, our refuge and fortress, our God in whom we trust so that our strength does not lie in the world but inside us. If we are assured of Jesus’ grace of atonement, look to the victory of salvation on the cross, are not be swayed by circumstances, believe in God and proclaim victory, then the life of Jesus will overflow from our body and life.