Sustained by God
Philippians 4:11-13 I am telling you this, but not because I need something. I have learned to be satisfied with what I have and with whatever happens. I know how to live when I am poor and when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of how to live through any kind of situation—when I have enough to eat or when I am hungry, when I have everything I need or when I have nothing. Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.
Scripture is often quoted out of context. One of the most common verses is “I can do all things in Christ Jesus”. It’s used to name and claim all sorts of things. But that’s not what it’s there for. That’s not what it means.
I remember a man I once knew using that particular verse to claim a new, high end sports car from God. Others will use it to support their aspirations for success. To paraphrase that line of thought, it goes something like this: Jesus will help me succeed at whatever I turn my hand to.
Let’s take a look at that passage in an easy-to-read translation:
Philippians 4:11-13 I am telling you this, but not because I need something. I have learned to be satisfied with what I have and with whatever happens. I know how to live when I am poor and when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of how to live through any kind of situation—when I have enough to eat or when I am hungry, when I have everything I need or when I have nothing. Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.
A much better translation to understand what the Apostle Paul meant, as he wrote that in a dank, dark dungeon on death row. What he’s saying is that no matter what God’s called him to do, no matter what that entails (good or bad) Jesus will get him through. Or, as Billy Graham put it, the will of God will never take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.
Remember, Christ is the one who gives you the strength you need to do whatever you must do
That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.
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I mention this in one of my messages too. A little different wording, but similar.
I mention this in one of my messages too. A little different wording, but similar.