The slightly sarcastic saying goes, “I can do all things- through a verse taken out of context.” We Christians love slogans especially verses that give us that extra boost to keep going when life gets hard. Philippians 4:13 is one of those.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” NKJ
While there are many encouraging promises in Scripture of strength to overcome adversity, I think this passage, when read in context, is pointing a different direction. I belong to a church that still does around the table Bible Study’s on Wednesday evening. It is one of my favorite things we do. Last week we were looking at this passage.
Paul had been commending the Philippian church for their recent gift to help provide for him in prison. Then he says the following:
“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
What Paul is saying is that he can be CONTENT in whatever situation- because Christ gives him strength.
He can be brought low- because Christ gives him strength.
He can abound- because Christ gives him strength.
He can have plenty and abundance- because Christ gives him strength.
He can endure hunger and need- because Christ gives him strength.
The strength that Christ gives him is that his life circumstances don’t matter!
Now in case you are like me and are feeling you can never reach this level of faith, remember Paul says that he has LEARNED this level of trust. A lifetime of holding tenaciously to the nail-scarred hand that had knocked him off his horse as a pompous young Pharisee had taught him strength is found in Christ alone!
In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand.
Songwriters: Keith Getty / Stuart Townend