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8a

II Corinthians 4

This chapter is poetically verbose. There is beauty in the words; for me, at least. The gist of this chapter is thus:

We are encouraged and strengthened because we have a ministry by the grace of God. We have stopped our bad behavior, we don�t lie and we preach of God and His glory, not our own � allowing our behavior and personality to prove the truth of our words. Those who don�t understand are limited by the ways of this world; unable to focus on His grace. (verses 1-6)

This immeasurable treasure is contained in fragile, physical bodies so that you see God�s power rather than ours. Though we are wounded, get tired, have injuries and are persecuted, we do not fail, so that God�s glory shines through us; so that you can see it is by God�s will alone that we continue speaking of Him. (verses 7-12)

We are encouraged and uplifted through faith in the truth of God. We share the knowledge, the gospel, so that thanksgiving and praise of God can be heard and felt throughout the world. We share so that God may be glorified. We continue, we persevere, because we know the life with God is eternal and we want to share eternity with Him. What we see every day is temporary, what we can not see, that is eternal. (verses 8-18)

Isn�t that cool? You really need to read the chapter as it is written to get the poetic feel of it, but it�s wonderful to 1) see such dedication and 2) to feel the love Paul poured into these words. I can feel his love for God and Jesus. And, it mirrors my own.

I feel all snuggly.