11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 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. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:11-13
Context is key. In my opinion, Philippians 4:13 may be one of the most misrepresented verses in scripture. Any Christian bookstore you walk through has this verse written on everything from plaques to t-shirts. “I can DO ALL things through Christ who strengthens ME.” This verse is read and represented as a message of empowerment. Through Christ, I can do anything…
Reading back through verse 11, it’s easy to see that the Apostle Paul is not communicating about his EMPOWERMENT through Christ… but rather his ENDURANCE. I’m willing to bet that, read in the correct context, we would’t see too many people wearing this on their shirt or hanging it on their wall. The Church today loves empowerment, but has no desire to endure for Christ. We want to see the power of God, but not endure the suffering. Friends, that’s not how it works. Jesus promised suffering. James 1 tells us to not only expect it, but consider it joy.
Stop asking for empowerment if you’re not prepared to endure.