Tag: Philippians 4:13

What Philippians 4:13 actually means when it says you can do all things through Christ

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JEFF TURNER

Philippians 4:13, says “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” It is one of the most widely quoted verses in the Bible, and also one of the most misunderstood. It shows up on clothing, jewellery, and motivational content, often used to suggest that a Christian can achieve anything they set their mind to with Jesus on their side. But the context of the verse tells a very different story.

Paul wrote this from a place of hardship, not ambition. He had just been describing his experience of going through seasons of abundance and seasons of having almost nothing, and saying that he had found contentment in both. The “all things” he was referring to were all kinds of circumstances, not all kinds of achievements. His point was that Christ gave him the inner strength to endure anything life brought his way, whether that meant suffering with dignity or enjoying blessing without becoming proud. That is a deeper and more honest kind of strength than the motivational version, and it is available to every believer in the hardest moments of life.

Not that I speak from need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.

Philippians 4:11-12

Understanding Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh

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JEFF TURNER

In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul speaks of a “thorn in the flesh” given to him. Some have guessed it was a physical illness, perhaps affecting his eyes, but the passage itself does not suggest a disease. Paul describes it clearly as a messenger of Satan. It’s a demonic force sent to trouble him.

This was not demon possession, since believers, as temples of the Holy Spirit, cannot be possessed. Instead, it was a form of spiritual attack that struck deeply and brought ongoing torment. It is likely connected to the opposition and unrest within the Corinthian church.

God allowed this trial for a purpose. Paul explains that it kept him from becoming proud because of the great revelations he had received. Even after praying three times for its removal, the Lord did not take it away. Paul accepted this, seeing that God’s power works best in humility.

Strength comes through dependence on Christ.

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13