But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 2 Cor 4:7

We who name the name of Christ are earthen vessels, but what is ‘this treasure?’ This verse is connected to verse six. This treasure is the shining light from God upon our hearts. God’s light casts out darkness. God shines in our hearts. He gives us the “light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”



2 Cor 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

The reason we are not golden lampstands like that of the temple is so that God will get the glory from our lives. We are all made of clay. We can’t glory in ourselves. Over time our clay lamp may show some wear and tear. There may be cracks and chips; however, there may also be the fingerprints of God in the molding process. The trials of fire have just made us stronger. 

The purpose of a lamp is to give light. We receive of God’s glory and light so that we may glorify God by being a light to this world. 1 Cor 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

Is the glory of God shining in your heart? We can all pray the following hymn:

Have Thine own way, Lord, Have Thine own way;
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay.
Mould me and make me After Thy will,

While I am waiting, Yielded and still. (Pollard)

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry