What You Thought You Knew About God’s Strength

Scripture: Philippians 4:10-20

Key Verse: Philippians 4:13

I’m sure most of us could quote this verse off the top of our heads. This verse is one that we often turn to when we are doubting our skills, or we are about to take on a difficult task. It is a really comforting verse even for someone like myself as I prepare to go into my final exams. The interesting thing about this verse, however, is that it is a recipe for being content regardless of the issue not just about triumphing over the issue.

Paul opens this section by expressing his gratitude to the people of Philippi for supporting him as he spread Gods message, which is a great example of expressing your gratefulness when someone does something for you that they are not obligated to do. God allowed the people of Philippi to support Paul despite being in their own financial bind, and there was never a moment where Paul was a burden on them. God will never make the person you are supporting feel like a burden as long as the support has been ordained by Him to happen. After saying thanks, Paul acknowledges what he went through and says that he “learned the secret of being content,” which shows how contentment isn’t a natural human instinct (v.12 HCSB). One might assume that after thanking the people of Philippi the secret would be to have a good support system, but it isn’t which is how we end up at verse 13. Paul recognizes that the only reason he is still standing after everything he went through is because of God. God will send you aid through human vessels, but we must remember He is still the source. The word strength used in this verse is from the Greek word ἐνδυναμόω (endunamoó) where the “en” means “in” which intensifies the “dunamoó” that means “sharing power ability.” Simply put, strength means to empower or to properly make able. So, God isn’t just giving us the strength to get through various situations, but we are tapping into his ability so we can deal with our situations the correct way. It is seen, time after time, in the Bible where God trusts us enough to send the Holy Spirit in to help calm us so we can think clearly. We must be content with being humbled or we won’t be able to handle future success or strength.

Paul continues by saying that the people God sent in the flesh to help will be rewarded for their obedience. Verse 15 shows that God knows when we are in need even in the early stages of doing His work. So, He will send people and their payment will be fruit (of the Spirit). Sometimes we don’t even realize when God has accepted our sacrifice until He shows up (v.18). Sounds confusing right, but let’s look at it. Paul knew the benefits the people of Philippi would reap, and he also knew God would and could supply all of his needs with or without their help. But, in using them to bless Paul, God shows us that we should pray for people’s restoration when they bless you, so they can tap into God’s strength and He can bless them as well. God will give back everything you sacrifice and more because of His power (v.19). His generosity exceeds anything man can do, which is why Paul must seal his requests by acknowledging God one more time in verse 20.

So, Philippians 4:13 is not just about triumphing over situations because of God’s strength but being content in situations with God’s strength. We must remember to pray for the people that God uses to help us along the way and thank them personally for their help. So, the next time you say that you can do all things through Christ who gives you strength understand that it doesn’t mean the situation will end, but you will have called on the One who will be in it with you.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for allowing me to have access to your strength. Thank you for using human vessels to comfort and assist me in my times of need. Lord bless and replenish those who have helped me and give me the courage to go back and thank them for their generosity. May you continue to get the glory forever and ever. Amen.