I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. — Philippians 4:13
We often hear this verse quoted when people are setting goals for themselves. They set the goal and they say “I can do it because of Christ living in me.” That is not necessarily what Paul is saying in this verse, however.
Paul had shared a lot in his writings about all the things that he had been through in his life. The people knew of Paul’s past. He had persecuted Christians. He had dealt with trials and persecution himself.
As he looked back on those things, Paul was able to say a few verses before that he had learned to be content. Not only content but that he was able to make it through all the things of his life because of the strength that he found in giving his life to Jesus Christ.
It was not the idea of setting grand goals for ourselves and saying that we can accomplish them. It is the idea that no matter what life may throw at us, we can make it through by the help and grace of God. Paul was speaking from a place of experience.
As we look back on our lives, no doubt we can see those same types of situations in our lives. We do not have to worry about sinking in trials, because our God is capable. We do not have to worry about temptations, persecutions, or any of the other cares of life. We have our place of strength who can overcome them all!
