“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. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:12-13 (ESV)
I Can Do All Things
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13, ESV). What “things” was Paul referring to here? Hitting a home run, dunking a basketball or scoring a touchdown? I’m not sure what kind of athlete Paul was, but I’m pretty sure when he penned this verse he didn’t anticipate it would be used in the manner it has.
Paul learned that his circumstances were overrated. It really didn’t matter where Paul was because one thing was for sure: No one could do anything about him being in sweet communion with the King of glory! His strength came from time spent with Jesus through the Spirit, and it allowed him to be content no matter what was going on around him.
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 8:38-39
Paul learned the secret to contentment and he communicated it throughout every one of his letters (which included Philippians and Romans). One day we will be with Jesus and nothing even comes close in comparison. Our citizenship and home is Heaven, and the more we realize we are just passing by, the more content we will be.
— Brian Hommel, Arizona Diamondbacks chaplain
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