Philippians 4:13 1/9/2018*

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

One of the most misapplied verses in the bible.

We usually quote this as a statement insuring our achievement of a goal.

But in context the passage has a different meaning.  Immediately before this verse Paul says, “I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need”. 

So, the proper application of this verse is not to insure accomplishment, but to remove fear and self-pity, and eliminate comfort as a requirement for contentment.

We desperately need that today.  We have become a nation of victims.  Easily offended with a myriad of reasons for our failures… none of which are our fault.  Any offense or disappointment sends us into the fetal position overcome with unhappiness and defeatism.

Paul refutes that and says he can handle any circumstance through Christ.  He can face success or loss, he can be hungry or full.  His circumstances do not determine his victories, those are guaranteed by the Cross.

All of us have issues in our lives that can hold us back.  And no problem is big until it is yours. But you can do anything through Christ.  It is your choice.  You can let a circumstance break you, or build you… and this verse affirms that it cannot break you without your permission.

Apply this passage as it is written.  Look adversity in the face and don’t flinch.  You can do this through Jesus, and that is guaranteed in writing. 

We are more than conquerors, and the enemy’s greatest fear is that we will lose ours.

"Listen to what you know instead of what you fear."
- Richard Bach