The end goal of a Christian's mortality is this: "that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh." The grace which has "shined in our hearts" (v. 60, if we are careful to make sure that the "inward man is renewed day by day" (v. 16) makes us more and more Christ like. He becomes 'manifest in our mortal flesh.'
However, we do not become perfect. "We have this treasure in mortal vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us" (v. 7). Even this imperfection has its purpose making sure that no one can mistake the finger pointing at the moon for the moon itself!
Nor will our circumstances be perfect. We will be subject to being troubled, perplexed, persecuted and cast down, perhaps even killed. But if we renew the inner man and keep that light shining in our hearts we need not be distressed, in despair, forsaken or destroyed, and in death we will be raised up (v. 8-14).
For Paul, the chief thing then, is that we do not hide our light in mortality. Being imperfect, having troubles does NOT diminish the light that shines in us! We may not be perfect, but He is! It is natural for our imperfections and troubles to make us a little reticent to share. "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; (v. 3-5)"
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