Lord, this is more than I can handle!
“I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.”
The phrase “I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.” comes from Philippians 4:13. This statement, written by the Apostle Paul, encapsulates a profound theological and personal affirmation of faith in Jesus Christ's empowering presence. It’s a verse cited by believers to express their confidence in overcoming life's challenges.
Paul wrote this letter to the Philippians while he was in prison -- A circumstance that seems incongruent with the notion of strength and capability. But Paul’s letter is filled with joy and gratitude, giving us a remarkable perspective on contentment and strength that overcomes external circumstances. In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul explains: “I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. 12 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. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.” Paul’s strength is derived from Christ.
The central thrust of this verse is the recognition that the source of Paul’s strength and ability is not his own but Christ's. This is a recurring theme throughout his writings. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, he describes how Christ’s power is made perfect in weakness: “9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness. Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me.”
Paul’s acknowledgment of his own limitations and Christ’s sufficiency highlight a key aspect of a believer’s strength—it’s not about human abilities, but divine empowerment.
Philippians 4:13 is often interpreted within the broader context of Paul’s theological framework. In Colossians 1:29, he writes, “I labor for this, striving with his strength that works powerfully in me”, reinforcing the idea that any effort or accomplishment we gain is ultimately fueled by Christ’s energy working through us. It’s not a matter of personal resolve but a partnership with His strength.
Theologically, this verse speaks to the changing nature of a relationship with Christ. Jesus Himself promises His followers a form of inner strength and peace that surpasses understanding. “The peace of God, which surpasses all
understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ
Jesus.” (Philippians 4:13,). The peace and the strength he refers to in this verse are not dependent on external factors but are based on the believer’s connection with Christ. Jesus' words in John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me.” describes the necessary union between Christ and believers. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit apart from the vine, believers cannot achieve spiritual or personal success apart from their relationship with Christ.
The practical implications of “I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.”, are profound. It encourages believers to face difficulties with the assurance that they are not alone. It tells them to rely not on their own strength but on Christ’s strength, which can be manifested in various ways—whether through fortitude, wisdom, or support from others. This dependence encourages resilience and a hopeful perspective, that even in moments of weakness or inability, Christ’s strength is sufficient to meet any need or challenge.
Philippians 4:13 is not a blank check for personal ambition but a testament to the Christian belief that Christ empowers believers to endure and overcome life's obstacles. It underscores a theological truth: true strength and capability come from a deep reliance on, and connection with, Christ. Through this divine empowerment, believers can navigate the complexities of life with a sense of assurance and purpose that goes beyond their own abilities.
I hope that this will touch anyone who is experiencing trials that seem overwhelming.
Remember:
“I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Respectfully submitted,
Ed Johanson