June 29, 2026
— Watchman Nee · Source: The Ministry of the Word of God
2 Corinthians 4:7 We have this treasure in earthen vessels so that the immense power of it may be from God and not from ourselves.
We often fall into the misconception that we must mold ourselves into exquisite, perfect porcelain to be worthy of God's service. However, God's word reminds me that we are essentially humble, fragile, and easily broken "earthenware vessels." The focus of service is never how strong or great the vessel is, but rather the "treasure" contained within us—Jesus Christ. When I feel exhausted at work, or when I am preoccupied with gains and losses in service, or crave human approval, it is often because I have appropriated God's power for myself, allowing my "self" to take the Lord's place. A true person is one who willingly acknowledges their own limitations and makes room for the Lord to manifest. Small acts of service, if they come from the Lord, are gold, silver, and precious stones; grand works, if they come from the flesh, are nothing but grass, wood, and stubble.
Dear Lord Jesus, I thank You. You did not despise my humility and weakness, but willingly placed Your supreme treasure, Yourself, into this ordinary vessel. Lord, forgive me for often living in my own self-centeredness, substituting human cleverness and fervor for Your work. Break my outward pride, complacency, and blind pursuit of great works. Lord, I offer myself again in Your hands, not asking to do anything earth-shattering for You, but only that You show Your presence through my life. Correct my source, so that I may willingly be a good vessel. Whether in the depths of despair or in seemingly insignificant service, may Your immense power and grace flow unhindered from my broken life. Graceful Lord, may You receive all glory. This prayer is offered in the holy name of Jesus Christ, Amen.