Apostle Paul writes, “I can do all things through him [Christ Jesus] who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13.
If Paul could do “all things” through Jesus Christ, then you too can, can’t you?
I realise that this verse is very popular among Christians, yet one of the most misunderstood verses as well. For most of us the accent is on the ability of I (self, ego) to do all things, but I have good reasons to believe that the accent for apostle Paul is on the one who gives strength, that is, Christ Jesus.
It is also important to note that, in Paul’s mind, “all things” does not mean anything but rather the totality of what Christ gives me the strength to do.
Interestingly, the context of the verse clearly shows that Paul was talking about his experience in terms of knowing “what it is to be in need” and “what it is to have plenty” (verse 12). He writes, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”
Accordingly, “all things” is Paul’s other way of saying “any and every situation”. In other words, Paul learned contentment in any and every situation through the strength that Christ gave him.
No matter your current situation, if you are Christian, let me tell you that the one who lives in you, even Christ Jesus, can/will give you the strength to overcome it.
Please don’t ever forget that he will give you strength for every situation he allows you to go through as it offers him opportunity to shape your character. The strength he gave Paul empowered him to learn contentment.
Interestingly, Paul had to learn contentment, not for learning’s sake, but for the sake of his calling (God’s sake) and to make him spiritually strong, invincible or unbeatable. Did you know that contentment strengthens trust in God (faith) and trust in God is what enables you to possess your possession, or enter in the fullness of the will of God for your life? Contentment keeps us focused on the goal of our faith. It is the most powerful weapon against the devil’s enticements or temptations.
Yes, the Lord Jesus Christ gives strength for us to fulfil our God-given destiny on earth.
May the Lord help us, in Jesus Christ’s name!
