I can do all things through Christ, or the shortened version I can do all things is our rallying cry. We charge into competition claiming it or post it over our works stations as an inspiration for success. We have much to accomplish, now we know we can. Oops, what do I do now? The other team is also claiming this promise. How can we both do all the things we want?
I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. Phil 4:13 (CSB)
We have enlisted this verse as a promise that we can have our way in all things. We assume this is a promise for success because Christ is our power to do so.
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. 12 I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship.
Philippians 4:10–14 (CSB)
But, what does this verse really mean? When we read the paragraph in which this statement resides, we find some more insight. Paul is thanking the Philippian church for the monetary support he received from them. He is assuring them that he is OK. He has learned to adapt to whatever resources are available. Sometimes he has very little, sometimes he has an abundance. Either way, he will be content and continue to do the things God has given him to do. This is a recurrent theme in Philippians. He will preach the gospel regardless of circumstances. In fact, he is a prisoner in a Roman jail while writing this letter. When he says he can do all things through Christ, he is not saying that he can accomplish all his personal goals. He is saying that he can persevere when in need and be wise when he is adequately funded. In other words, he will not be conquered by his circumstances. Christ will see him through. Perhaps we have overlooked the context for this phrase. It is tempting to think that we get to conquer our world. This verse does not mean we will conquer the world with Christ as our superpower to accomplish our plans. It means that the world will not conquer us if we lean on Christ and are going about His business. It does not mean that we will succeed through hard work and dedication. When we are tempted to proceed in our own strength, through all the difficulties we face, we are reminded that He will enable us to persevere and be content.
Lord,
Give me Your heart. Make me humble and selfless. Remind me where You are taking me. Help me to trust that You will continue to be with me to carry out Your kingdom values in this earthly realm. Help me to not get puffed up and over confident when I am not in need. When I am in need, help me to trust You and to make do with what I have, unwavering in my desire to see the gospel go forth in power and for people to live restored lives as a result of receiving it.
Amen