I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
This particular verse is often taken out of context and used as a motivational tool to inspire Christians to be bold and take unnecessary risks. Yet if we look at the entirety of the text, we note that Paul is referring to his financial, emotional, and spiritual state. He writes this epistle from a Roman prison where he’s confined for preaching about salvation through Jesus Christ.
Despite his incarceration, Paul affirms, “I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength” (NLT).
One of the greatest lessons Paul learned in God’s classroom was to filter every part of his life through the cross. What I mean by this is that Paul recognized each of his circumstances, whether good or bad, as intrinsic to God’s sovereign plan.
Note the important clause here; through. It was through Christ that Paul was able to cope with every situation. It was through Christ that Paul learned to be content whatever his state. It was through Christ that he learned to accept fullness or hunger, abundance or need. It was through Christ that Paul drew the strength needed to do all things.
It is only through Christ, the true source of strength, that we find the help needed to meet the chaos and confusion of this world. He gives us the strength – not physical strength, but His strength, an inner boost that enables us to carry on – to accept our status quo, whether it be plenty or lacking, whether in good or bad health, whether in sorrow or in joy.
True contentment is the fruit of knowing (heart, mind, and soul) that God has a reason and a purpose for each phase of our lives. Each step forward is a step closer to our ultimate goal; eternity with Christ.
Thought: “You say, ‘If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.’ You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled.” – Charles Spurgeon
For further reading:
- Matthew 5:45
- 1 Timothy 6:6-8
- Hebrews 13:5
- John 15:5