Out of Context Again

Read:

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Philippians 4:12 "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 want."

Think:

Philippians 4:13 shows up on t-shirts, shoes, and hats. It is a regular on billboards. It seems to imply that Christians have a competitive edge because they have Jesus as their Savior. But Paul wrote this verse while in a prison cell awaiting trial for preaching about Christ and the resurrection. Paul wrote this verse to the Philippian church to encourage them in their suffering. Paul had been beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, and his life had been endangered many times, and he still overcame all these things through the power of Jesus. Jesus was the source of his strength.

It is not a war cry or a battle cry, and it isn't a motivational speech to achieve success personally, financially, physically, or emotionally. It is written to encourage the saints, empower the weak, and equip those in difficult, extreme circumstances. So whatever situation you find yourself in today, like verse 12-13 reminds us, "be content." Jesus is enough, and he is sufficient. You’ve got this!

Apply:

How are you trying to get through your days without Jesus? Are you keeping focused on him? Remind yourself that no matter what you face, he will give you strength to endure as you give him the glory.

Pray:

God, may you be glorified in my weakness. I honor you even when my situation seems bleak. Help me to seek you above all else. In Jesus' name, Amen.