I can do all things…

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

I finished a devotional this morning about this particular Bible verse. Paul wrote this during his imprisonment. While many of us use this verse to validate that God will help us through any and all of our desires, this is not exactly what Paul is speaking of.

Yes, God is ever-present and willing to give strength. But the strength Paul is referring to is the strength to continue his work for God. This verse immediately follows verses 11 and 12 when he is talking about finding contentment through all of the trials he has been suffering. His strength came through God to where he was able to find contentment, even during the worst of human conditions, and to continue his ministry even when he was at his weakest.

Philippians 4:11
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

Philippians 4:12
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.

Paul is an amazing example of trust and dedication to God. Many of us will not experience what Paul did. Being shipwrecked. Left for dead. Deserted. Imprisoned. But we certainly have very real situations where we might feel deserted, hunger, abandoned, hurt, confused, at a loss…etc.

God will strengthen us. He takes care of His own. He desires that we find contentment in all seasons of our life and to trust in Him as we seek His will.

We should be mindful of how we use scripture verses and not focus so much on what can they do for me, but what is His will for my life.

Have a blessed Sunday! ♥️

Andi