"I can do all things" in Context

Image courtesy of DrAjao

For I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

-Philippians 4:11b-13 NLT

                                                          

I think Philippians 4:13 is the verse most taken out of context from the Word of God. Everyone wants to stand on the Word that "I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength" but many of us don't pay attention to the Words that surround this famous verse.

This passage talks about how God's strength and enablement is given to Paul. But rather than having God's strength to do great exploits and noble deeds, the proceeding verses reveal that it is God's strength that has given him grace to be content with whatever he had. Much or small, abundant or lacking.

With the prosperity message still alive and well, we tend to want to ignore this passage and its essence. But I for one have had to come to terms with it and realize its freeing power this year.

I have gone from needing a full set of acrylic nails every 2 weeks to managing my natural nails just fine on my own.

I've gone from needing those metallic knee-length boots to match my new metallic belt with the jeweled buckle, to being able to survive on the basics in my wardrobe.

From daily strawberry and crème frappacinos (venti) to homemade fruit smoothies, or really, just a glass of water

From believing my expensive beauty regime and knockout image was a necessity, to realizing that really, no one cares all that much.

I've come to find out that my husband and kids love me all the same, even if I don't have that killer hairdo, whether or not my waist is thin (through 'optical illusions') or my eyebrows are arched. In fact, their love abounds when I invest my time and energy in caring for them rather than caring just for myself all the time.

Times are rough for many of us and it is in these times that we realize the strength of God in getting through and in being content with what we do have. We realize that what we thought we could never live without, that...well, we're still living. Becoming comfortable with God's timing and provision is the true victory.

During this year, I have been equipped with the tools I need to know "the secret of living in every situation." I am certain that with the tools I’ve acquired, I will be able to manage my resources when I have a lot and be just as savvy when I have a little. 

So now, if I were given a gift of a substantial amount of money, I wouldn't treat myself to a shopping spree 'because I deserve it', like i used to, or mismanage it as was then the case. Having less has taught me wisdom and prayerfully the grace to abound when I flourish.

-Lyrics by tia 2012