I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me?

Paul’s Imprisonment and the Philippians’ Gift

The Apostle Paul wrote his letter to the Philippian church while under house arrest in Rome. He had been detained for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Philippians had heard about Paul's imprisonment and also witnessed rival teachers making things harder on Paul.

It wasn't popular to associate with prisoners. Well, the Philippians didn't feel that way. Jesus said, that which you've done to my brothers in prison, you've done unto me. So they took up an offering to help Paul with his ministry and they sent it to Rome with Epaphroditus, a journey that almost killed him.

Rejoicing in the Lord Despite Imprisonment

Paul wrote back to thank them for their gift and encouraged them to rejoice in everything, even his imprisonment. At the end of his letter, he said, I rejoiced in the Lord greatly about your concern for me.

You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity to show it until now. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low and how to abound.

In any and every circumstance, I've learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4 .13 does not mean that faith in God will help you be an athlete or strike it rich or fly.

Contentment, Strength, and Rejoicing in Christ

It means that whether things are really good or things are really bad, it is by the power of God that we endure. Jesus conquered death and rules over all. What can this world do to us? Whether you have money or you don't, you're sick or you're healthy, you're being ridiculed for your faith, you have friends or have been betrayed.

By the strength of God who is working all things for his glory, rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, rejoice when we understand the text.