I Can Do What?

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Php 4:13)

That's one of those "poster verses." You know ... the kind you put up on the wall or tack on the mirror or have on you Bible cover. It's so heart-warming and encouraging and ... misunderstood.

Lots of Christians love that text and yank it entirely out of context to allow it to mean all sorts of things. More of a "positive thinking" exercise than its actual intent. What did Paul intend? Read the context.

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 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. (Php 4:10-12)

Paul defines "all things" in this text. It is rejoicing. It is learning to be content in any situation. It is learning the secret of facing plenty and hunger. Thus, this isn't about accomplishment, but contentment. It isn't about personal empowerment, it's about endurance. And, above all, it's not about self-confidence; it's about dependence on Christ. There's nothing in this about worldly success. It is a declaration of spiritual sufficiency in Christ.

I can hear some saying, "Really? Is that all?" Think about it. What is the big problem in the world today? "I want more." It doesn't really matter who. From the poorest to the richest, from the healthiest to the sickest, from the saddest to the happiest, we all want more. Imagine if that was replaced ... with contentment. How? "Through Him." In Christ. Christ empowers us. Christ strengthens us. Christ alone is sufficient. Anything else, as they say, is just gravy. We get so caught up in "stuff" and forget about the important things. God thinks contentment in Him is very important ... and He will do it.