I Can Do All Things

 Philippians 4:13 is what I sometimes call a baseball scripture. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” is a beautiful statement from Paul that is commonly used in reference to physical accomplishments such as athletic feats. Of course, the meaning of the verse has nothing to do with something so trivial as the local little league game. One of my favorite coffee cup designs satirically paraphrases the verse: “I can do all things through a verse ripped from its context.” 


Leading up to this famous line, Paul talked about the things that he surrendered in order to be pleasing to God. To Paul, there was no comparison to what he gained. “I count all things as loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss  of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him” (3:8). 


Paul goes on to say that he hasn’t yet reached full maturity in his new walk, but that he continues to press on toward the goal (3:12-4:1). This new goal de-emphasizes the things that were previously important- physical accomplishment. Paul’s focus is now on the spiritual blessings of a relationship with Jesus, and all physical concern takes a far back seat. 


This is why, finally, Paul precedes his famous line by saying “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content…” (4:11-13). Whether in abundance or in need, Paul had strength. 


This isn’t a scripture that promises super powers to Christians, but it describes one of the great blessings of a relationship with God - strength to get through this life by looking forward to the next!


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