Power for Living. Philippians 4:13. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” A clearer way to understand this verse is to read it as, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” The current circumstances in which God places us are not accidental. He has plans and purposes in mind when He guides or permits us to do things using the strength He provides. This does not mean we engage in evil, foolish, or self-centered actions.
God’s grace sustains us when we follow where He leads, even if we lack what we thought was essential. The strength He provides is enough to accomplish what He asks of us. We are not necessarily given superhuman abilities to do what we imagine unless it aligns with His purpose. Faith in God enables us to face trials we once thought we could never endure. It helps us withstand pressures to do wrong, even if those pressures come from authority figures. Troubles, pain, and suffering that come upon us can be accepted through His grace, which is sufficient for our needs at that moment.
The believers at Philippi demonstrated their care and interest through the gifts they provided while serving the Lord’s servant, Paul. He then could share what he had learned and how he could live victoriously in any situation.
Whatever life brings to us, God has provided the strength to meet its demands. In His infinite wisdom, He knows exactly what I can and cannot do, assuring me that His power is available to handle unexpected needs. He shapes my life to match my abilities, which challenges me to be wise in the ways of the Lord, not in my own pride. I realize I can’t do everything, and I can’t excel at many things, so what does it mean to “do all things”? Christ’s sufficiency is always there to help accomplish what His will brings my way. He doesn’t require me to have superhuman abilities to live my life for Him. His interests should be mine, and He gives strength to carry them out appropriately.
Raising my children and guiding their lives was a serious responsibility for me when they were young. They needed to understand right and wrong; they should be able to see in my actions, even in my facial expressions, and hear in my words that living in Christ is achievable. In Him, I find joy in serving God each day. Living openly before others where temptations are many is where we are tested. We should demonstrate through our commitment to God and His Word that the Christian life is the best way to live. Most people are searching for purpose in life but get caught up in materialism and other ways to fill an inner longing for something meaningful. Only God provides the strength to live by faith and show them the way to heaven.
When health declines and old age saps our strength, Christ’s power is there to uplift the soul and help us face each new day. His strength doesn’t promise that I’ll never experience pain or face physical death, but it does provide the grace I need to live for the Lord as life draws to an end. Whether it’s the need within me or challenges outside, Christ gives me the endurance to confront everything that comes my way and to face it calmly. His grace is sufficient, and His strength is here to help us fulfill His purpose. Things may seem difficult at times and even too easy at others, but His strength will be with me to meet every need and bring satisfaction in those moments.
Paul was a model and example of someone who lived by God's power. He was at peace even while in prison because he knew the God of peace was with him. The believers in Philippi were close to him, and he wished the same peace for them that he was experiencing. Hearing the word of God is valuable. Reading it is good, and seeing it lived out in others is also beneficial. But what we understand must be obeyed and put into practice. That shows true ministry. Additionally, when we experience that power to live in peace, we learn to be content in all circumstances of life.
Well Done. “Notwithstanding ye had well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.” It was important to Paul that he made sure the Philippian Christians understood he appreciated their gift, which was helpful to him in his situation. Not only that, but through their giving to meet his needs, they were involved in what he was experiencing for the sake of the Gospel.
We may not always understand what the true needs are when we show concern and interest in the lives and well-being of other believers. Seldom do we realize the unseen issues behind a brother or sister's distress. What you give them may serve as a balm to their troubled soul because of their grief or despair. A written note might be the thing that helps a lonely soul realize that someone cares for them, even if they haven’t seen each other in a long time.
We can demonstrate the reality of our fellowship to those who are far away or hidden behind walls of suffering in many ways. Praying for them is a vital, visible, and tangible sign of fellowship. “A cup of cold water” given to a child in the name of a disciple is rewarded.
Sharing what we have with others in their time of need is more than just a duty; it is a privilege that involves us becoming part of their journey when we respond to the Spirit’s call to help ease their burden. For the sake of the Gospel and obeying God’s call to serve in distant places, they may find themselves facing financial hardships. I should empathize with them and seek every way possible to assist and lighten their load. Communication begins with me as they reach out to those far away who lack knowledge of salvation or need help from fellow believers. They need food; bills must be paid, and expenses will always exist that I may never see. I know they won’t ask for help or openly share their poverty, but their needs should still be met. I can take time each day to reflect on the reality of expenses they hide from me.
When laborers go forth to serve the Lord, they deserve real support from us who know them. We are in a position where survival isn’t too difficult, and we can keep our obligations simple if we choose. They often provide food and medical care for impoverished people where they work. Through our financial support, we can participate in their efforts and lighten their burden.