I can do all this through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13 (NIV)

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. – Philippians 4:13 (KJV)

Theme: Living According to God’s Word

As we mentioned last week, Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians from prison, and he had been through a lot by that time in his life. He had been shipwrecked, beaten multiple times, whipped, thrown in prison twice, hunted, betrayed, and he had an affliction (“thorn” in his flesh). Yet despite all of his suffering, Paul’s message to the Philippians was a message of joy.

In last week’s verse, Philippians 4:4. he encouraged the church in Philippi (and us) to rejoice…ALWAYS.  In this week’s verse, he shares the secret to contentment in all situations. Let’s look at the Philippians 4:13 in context:
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. 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.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
– Philippians 4:11-13

This verse is one of the most popular among Christians, especially athletes, and often used as a source of inspiration (and that’s ok). However, as we look at Philippians 4:13 in context, we see that Paul’s message was less about achievement in competition and more about perseverance and contentment no matter what the circumstances. And Paul’s secret? The knowledge that he could “do all things through Christ which strengtheneth” him.

That’s the secret for us as well…

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