I Can Do
I can do all things through Christ.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ! All the praises be to the Living God!
The above mentioned verse (Philippians 4:13) is one such verse that gives us the strength to overcome any kind of hurdles or problems. Truly, the verse offers encouragement in our discouragements. For the confidence we derive is in the name of our Lord Jesus alone. As it can be seen, Jesus is central to the whole verse. The author could never have shown the same confidence without Jesus, the Son of God. Very importantly the author, Apostle Paul’s exuberance in saying the above is all by faith in the Lord. Paul’s reliance is not on his own strength, but on the strength of the Son of the living God.
Application of the scripture
The above said verse is also widely misused or misinterpreted. The verse does not mean that you do anything evil and wicked in the sight of God. Although, you may do things which might be good to your sight, but not in the sight of God. Most importantly, the success and failure of our personal goals can never be ascribed to so and so promises of the Bible. Moreover, It is very important that we are righteous, true in our execution and according to the will of the Heavenly Father.
Throughout the scriptures we could see the hardships and trials that Paul endured. Even the infamous thorn in his flesh, which he very much wanted to get rid off. Also, he did not receive what he wanted even after praying to God thrice. But God said that His grace is sufficient as per the verse below:
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
II Corinthians 12:9
The Power of Christ
Indeed, Paul was very much right and appropriate to say that he can do all things through Christ. He throughout his life rightly reflected the fact for us to see. For the sake of Christ he could endure all the hardships and trials. The pain and torture was nothing to him. He rather was willing to boast of his infirmities and take pleasure in persecutions and distresses for the sake of Christ. Above all, in his weaknesses, he is strengthened by the power of Christ. And therefore he could do all things through Christ and for Christ.
Therefore, by the power of Christ, we are strengthened to do all things for the glory of God. In Jesus’ matchless name may you all be strengthened to do the will of the Heavenly Father. Amen.