November 29

Now we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us. — 2 Cor 4:7 BSB

Earthly success is not the measure of spiritual life. Sometimes failure accomplishes more than success! God can do more through our weakness than our strength. Paul learned that when he was weak, he was strong, because Christ’s strength rested on him more fully. Often, we do our most effective work in moments that seem like failure, not victory. Many preachers find that their most impactful sermons are not the ones they thought were their best. Sometimes, what feels like a failure turns out to be the very thing God uses most.

It’s been said that some of the greatest treasures in heaven will be the mistakes God’s children made while trying to show their love. One mother treasured a handkerchief her little daughter, now in heaven, had tried to hem for her. Despite its imperfections, it was the most sacred gift she had.