“Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.” (2 Corinthians 4: 16)
Many years ago when John Quincy Adams began crossing a street, he was in such poor health it took him five minutes to approach the other side. A friend who was passing that way asked, “How is John Quincy Adams this morning?” He replied, “John Quincy Adams is doing just fine. The house he lives in is in sad disrepair. In fact, it is so dilapidated, John Quincy Adams may have to move out soon, but John Quincy Adams is doing just fine, thank you!”
John Quincy Adams was no doubt acquainted with the verse of Scripture I have quoted. Paul writes that we have an outward man and an inward man. In two of my favorite translations the outward man, or our body, is referred to as a common earthenware jar and a little clay pot (JB Phillips and the Living Bible Paraphrased.)
Paul declares a fourth eternal value: Our inward man is a greater value than our outward man. These verses Paul wrote to console those who were persecuted at that time are also a consolation for persecuted believers today or those who may be in the final stages of cancer that is causing their physical bodies to perish. When they have prayed for healing and it appears that God is taking them home, their inward man can be renewed while their outward man is wasting away.
As some believers study the resurrection chapter they want to believe they will hold on to their physical body. The great news is God is going to replace our little clay pots with spiritual bodies.
4SpiritualSecrets 
Great post Dick…and an absolute home run on last Sunday’s Hebrews Q&A! You should post that video on this blog–it was a real encouragement to everyone. Thanks!
What an encouraging thought, Dad, as we await Mark’s test results for cancer. Had never heard the quote from JQ Adams either–neat! luv, BooBoo
Dad,
I agree with John having just viewed the video from last Sunday Q&A for book of Hebrews…appreciate your clarity, which is what we all aim for!!
Wow! As always; I thank The Lord for your helpful insights for us short sided ones.
Am encouraged knowing that a new body awaits me beyond the grave. Praise God.