Knowing that I can do all things through Him
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. 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. Philippians 4:10-13 We live in a world that promotes dissatisfaction. Persistently, we are battered with a barrage of newer and better things that will make our lives more complete if only we would obtain them! If we listen to the world, we will always be comparing the lifestyles and possessions of others with our own; doing this will always make you dissatisfied. If your contentment comes from possessions, activities, or other people, you will realize that they do not last. But if your contentment comes from your relationship with Christ, there is absolutely nothing that can take that away. The Apostle Paul’s resolve that “I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13) is what believers always longed to have in their lives. And this is for good reasons because not everyone had it all in life. Everyone faces tough areas in life and that we all need strength as we deal with those situations. We can appear strong from the outside and yet struggles within dealing with pain and disappointments. When Paul declared that his strength comes from God, it was not just a wishful thinking or a good luck charm. His determination to continue on comes from the strength within because of His relationship with Christ. When you claim this great promise from God, you have to understand that it should come from a life of intimacy with Christ. God desires to bless your life but remember that His purpose for your life is to manifest His glory through the lives of His children. God is not here to do our bidding but to demonstrate who are His because of the willingness to do His will. The “everything” or “all things” in other translations in verse 13 refers to the things that God wants you to do that will bring glory to His Name. if you give of yourself fully to God as your expression of commitment and submission to His will, then you will experience His strength. As you follow Him, be rest assured that His strength is always available so you could face whatever life brings in your way. What is God asking you today? Let the Holy Spirit help you know what He is leading you to do. Take a step of faith and do what you believe God is asking you to do, only then that you will realize His power working in you and through you.
Blessings,
