2 Corinthians 4:10-12
We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
The death and life that is referred to here is the death of Jesus on the cross for us, so that we may deny ourselves for the sake of Christ in our daily lives. When we depend on God, it does not mean that we do nothing. It means we will use our wisdom and strength to overcome any difficulties and to live for the Lord.
On one hand, Paul emphasized that we have this treasure in jars of clay. On the other hand, we see that Paul was actively laboring for God. Verse 11 says, "For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body." Paul's dedication is not for himself, but so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in his life. God has given us time, money, talent, work, family, friendship and health so that we can be his faithful steward in every aspect of our lives.
Hence, we need to plan our lives accordingly. If we feel pressure in a certain area, it could be due to a need in that area of your life. Ask the Lord to help you be humble and willing to learn. If your environment needs to be changed, you need to plan accordingly and make the necessary changes. If you feel that you are struggling in the area of relationships and communication, you need to find ways to improve yourself.
As Christians, we should continue to compare ourselves with who we were in the past. We need to ask ourselves every day whether we love God more each day and whether we are being a more effective witness at work compared to yesterday. In relationships, we need to ask ourselves whether we are more gentle and humble today compared to yesterday. In other words, we need to be willing to deny ourselves. When we are willing to die to ourselves, it is like a glass of perfume being shattered and the aroma of Christ will be spread so that those around us can be benefitted. This is why Jesus said, "Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many." Pray that the Holy Spirit will help us to live for God daily!
Pray with Pastor Tong
Lord, we thank you, because you first died for us, so we may live for you. May your sacrifice be manifested in our lives each and every day so that those around us may be benefited. We thank you and pray in the victorious name of Jesus, Amen!
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