A part of me has always looked for the simple and easy way of life. I used to believe that God would give me strength to be better, achieve an abundant life, and bless my good deeds.
Philippians 4:13 Is Often Misinterpreted
In Philippians 4:13 it says, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” This verse is often misinterpreted and used to encourage people to achieve an abundant and bountiful life. We take on this verse and make it our key to achieving our goals and finding success.
Philippians 4:13 In Context
When you put this verse into context, you can see it goes so much further. It is not a mantra to get to the next level in your life. Let’s start at verse eleven to see what Paul was referring to when he said he could do all things.
Philippians 4:11-13 (WEB)
Not that I speak because of lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am to be content in it. I know how to be humbled, and I also know how to abound. In everything and in all things I have learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in need. I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13
What Philippians 4:13 Means To Me
I had recently lost my job. I say recent, but it has been almost a year and a half since I got laid off. It has been a difficult time, but we have been OK during this journey. However, it truly changed how I budgeted our money and how our family lived daily.
Life Is Different, But Is Familiar Territory
Even though our budget was not as abundant as it was when I was working full-time, the changes we made to adjust to this new lifestyle were good for all of us. I had to rely on God, just like I did as a stay-at-home mom, raising three little ones while my husband worked two jobs to support us.
Time And Space To Shift My Focus
Losing my job also gave me time and space to write more and be involved in spaces that have helped me heal emotionally and spiritually. The Holy Spirit is leading me to a place where I am focused on improving my physical health. None of this would’ve happened if I hadn’t experienced this loss and transition in my life.
Learning To Be Content In All Circumstances
In chapter four of Philippians, Paul talks about learning to be content in all circumstances. I know there have been moments in the last year and a half when I was not content in all circumstances. In those moments, I would try to make things happen, and when there would be roadblock after roadblock, I would feel discouraged and worthless. This has not been an easy journey to take.
Remembering The Past
I have been reminded of the season where I was a stay-at-home mom, and there were many instances where I was unable to be content because finances were so tight. Now that my children are all young adults, I look back and wish I had trusted God more and learned how to enjoy the moment because, looking back, I now know everything worked out just fine.
There Will Be Seasons Of Abundance And Lack
When I read Philippians 4:11-13, I am reminded that there will be seasons of abundance and lack, and Jesus will strengthen me in both. Even though I still do not have a full-time job, I can see how The Lord has strengthened me through every moment.
Lean In And Trust
If you are willing to lean in and trust Him and follow the Holy Spirit’s promptings one step at a time, then that is what this verse refers to. It is not necessarily to help you reach your goals in life. However, it is to ensure that your faith in Jesus remains steadfast whether you are in a season of lack or abundance.
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