True Strength

“I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” - Philippians 4:13

We often recite this verse when we are attempting to do something difficult. Some athletes use this verse as they try to bench a new personal best weightlifting. Others might meditate on this verse before they go into a difficult game or championship match. We can hold to this Scripture in a way that motivates achievement.

But what did the apostle Paul intend when he wrote these words?

If we look at the verse before for context, we will see the “secret” Paul had found: “I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need.” – Philippians 4:12

Paul could be considered one of the most devoted disciples of all time. He endured great hardship for the Gospel, more than what many of us will ever encounter:

“Five times I received the forty lashes minus one from the Jews. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I received a stoning. Three times I was shipwrecked. I have spent a night and a day in the open sea. On frequent journeys, I faced dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my own people, dangers from Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers at sea, and dangers among false brothers; toil and hardship, many sleepless nights, hunger and thirst, often without food, cold, and without clothing.” - 2 Corinthians 11:24-27

Paul struggled. But he saw God sustain him through his struggles. God always provided a way for him and enabled him to share his messages. Paul experienced God’s presence and provision, which brought more flourishing than striving for happiness or comfort ever could.

Amidst all of life’s challenges, Paul gives us perspective:

“So I take pleasure in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and in difficulties, for the sake of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:10

You see, Paul’s strength didn’t come from having little or much. It didn’t come from all his daring and harrowing accomplishments for the Lord. It all came from the “secret” – that in Christ, he could do all things.

The secret is Jesus. Jesus gives us strength. Jesus gives us peace. Jesus is our salvation.

Paul fixed his eyes on Jesus, the One who sustained him in every situation. He clung to the power of Christ, the truth of His salvation and continued his journey leaning on God’s guidance.

Like Paul, we can focus our eyes on Jesus and remember that He gives true meaning to our lives. The scoreboard doesn’t. Our happiness doesn’t. Our stuff doesn’t, and neither does our success. Focusing on Him will make all other things in our lives fade. We can always be content when we live with Jesus as our focus. We can find a deep joy when we realize His presence goes with us, no matter what we face.