I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13, ESV)

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

This verse is oftentimes taken completely out of context. Let me provide the preceding two verses.

"Not that I'm speaking from being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I'm in to be content. 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."

Too often this Bible verse is taken to mean that we'll have no suffering...

that Jesus will make everything easy for us. However, the context of the preceding verses, this is what I know. God's strength is for every season, in seasons of humility or plenty, His strength is there for us. In both hunger and abundance, He's going to empower us. Philippians 4:13 is often quoted in times of need, but I encourage you to quote this verse in times of abundance, also.

That may be the most important time to remind ourselves of this verse, because it points us to the Lord as our source. In your times of abundantly-good relationships. Do you rely on God's strength? In times of strong friendships, do you believe you are operating through God's power? The key in keeping the lows from being too low, is to keep the highs from being too high. This is so important. Begin to look at how you steadily and consistently rely on God's strength.

Prayer

Let's pray. Lord, when I'm going through times of plenty, I just recognize, and I praise you that your strength is what sustains me. God with my friendships are going exceedingly well, God, I just proclaim right now it's only because you strengthen that friendship. Lord, when I go through the Low times, through the valleys, you’re there to uphold me and to bring me through. And we pray these things in Jesus name. Amen.

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I hope you were blessed by this biblical reconciliation resource - Let's go out and be Christian Reconcilers and Peacemakers who make peace. 

Blessings 

P. Brian Noble