Ever since I was little when I was asked what my favorite bible verse was, I wouldn’t have to think about it. My answer was always the same! I would say “Philippians 4:13-I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
I have to believe it’s always been my favorite because it’s such a powerful, uplifting scripture verse. How amazing is it that we can do all things through Christ?! What an amazing promise!
However, the older I got this verse took on a new, deeper meaning. It’s a very positive upbeat portion of scripture but if we take the verse at face value to simply “pump ourselves up” to believe we can do anything we want to; we are actually selling the verse short and giving ourselves false expectations of reality.
Paul’s words in this famous scripture are referring to our ability to endure trials and tribulations (serious stuff) when we keep our eyes on the Lord. This is a powerful passage that should encourage us when times are hard. Not because we are enough but because we have God living in our heart.
Now I’m not saying God can’t help you win the game, get the job, or pass the test, but this verse isn’t a promise for getting what you want. It’s so much more than that. God never promises that our time on earth will be easy or go as we planned. This verse is a promise that we can get through the hard times.
Eventually, you will lose the game, fail the test, and not get the job you wanted, but instead, this scripture verse provides hope amid trials and struggles. Instead of using this verse to motivate me during normal times, now I cling to this verse for hope during hard times. And what a comfort it is. My hope for you is that you can do the same.