Not everyone views their body alike. Some are happy with the way they look while others have an unhealthy self-image based on perceived body appearance. However, there are things more significant regarding the body than merely how it looks and we must understand how often the acknowledgement of beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Therefore, above all, we must view our body in terms of how God views it as even noted in the Scriptures. Today, consider the first of three descriptions and how our living ought to reflect it as we look beyond the mere physical to the spiritual significance of our body.
It has been said, “My body is an instrument, not an ornament.” Though this may have been stated in relation to physical self-image, can we understand it also in a spiritual sense? Consider it in light of our spiritual life and how we are to be mindful of living for God’s purposes. Though God can be duly glorified as the world observes our good works (Matthew 5:16), we are not to simply stand on display in an ornamental way, but live to portray the purposes for which God has given us life!
Having noted the ministry of the Gospel given to him, in his letter to Christians at Corinth, Paul stated. . .
“(7) But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7 ESV)
This body is fragile. The flesh can be torn, and the bones can be broken. As the years pass, the body has ways of reminding it was not intended to last forever, though there is inner renewal that can still take place. (2 Corinthians 4:16) As the fleshly body originated from the dust (Genesis 2:7) it is to the dust it will one day return. (Ecclesiastes 3:20; 12:7) What we are to remain mindful of is the kind of vessel we are allowing our life to become and be!
Are we living duly mindful of what this vessel — our body — is filled with and for what purpose it is to be put to use? What is being treasured within us? Is it the things of God or the world? The value of our life is not merely how we appear since even the simplest looking vessel can contain something of great value. That should encourage us about the significance of our inner self and the life it compels us to live!
Writing the Christians at Rome, Paul urged. . .
“(12) Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. (13) Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness.” (Romans 6:12-13 ESV)
In spite of being as “jars of clay”, God’s power brings the value to our usefulness in life as we surrender to His Will rather than our own desires. Understanding our life is to be lived for the Lord, may our body become “a vessel for honorable use” (2 Timothy 2:21) by the power God works in and through us to His glory and praise!
Have a great day FILLED BY GOD FOR HIS USE!
Carl
