What is "all things"? Philippians 4:13

A verse frequently quoted by Christian athletes, motivational speakers and a host of others today is Philippians 4:13; "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

What is often implied, if not explicitly stated, is that if we tap into the power of Christ we can do anything. We can raise our batting average, close the big deal or accomplish anything our minds can dream up. As long as it is not immoral, illegal or contrary to Scripture in any other way.

While it is true that God can and does help us in every area of life and is still doing miracles today (that is the subject for another post), it is wrong and harmful for us to understand the verse in this way. That is, that Christ will help us to succeed in whatever we desire to do if we trust in Him completely.

First, this can be an attempt to put Christ in the place of a servant who is helping us to achieve our dreams and ambitions, rather than His rightful place as Master and Lord of our lives. What's more, it almost certainly leads to disappointment or disillusionment when things don't turn out as we believed they would.

In the context of Philippians 4:13 is Paul explaining how he is content in any circumstance of life, whether he has a little or a lot. This is the key to understanding what he is saying. Paul is boldly stating that Christ will help him to live successfully and godly in any circumstance that God sovereignly places him.

Recently a good friend of our family lost her father and then eight days later her mother in what the world would call a 'freak accident'. The truth is that as difficult as this situation is, God was in control of the universe when it happened, and He has a plan that is wise and loving for all involved. My wife talked with this dear friend just a few days after this terrible incident. It was clearly evident from the conversation that although she was grieving, she hadn't lost her perspective and she was confident that God will help her through this incredible shock.

This is what Philippians 4:13 is really all about. Not that we can be confident that Christ will enable us to do whatever we set out to do, but that we are able to do what is right, good and humanly impossible through the supernatural power of the Lord Jesus Christ!