Philippians 4:13 - Printer Friendly

ESV: I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

NIV: I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

NASB: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

CSB: I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.

NLT: For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

KJV: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

NKJV: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Despite his frequent need, and harsh treatment, Paul joyfully declares his confidence that God will allow him to endure anything. Paul's words reflected the Gospel teachings that nothing is impossible with God (Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37). Paul had declared elsewhere that if God is for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)?

This perspective can also be found in the Old Testament. Jeremiah 32:17 notes that nothing is too hard for the Lord. Job 42:2 declares God can do anything. God's closest followers have long known that with God, nothing is impossible, whether Abraham's promised son Isaac, the people of Israel crossing the Red Sea, or the people entering the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. God provides on time, in His time, every time. Paul's confidence can be found throughout his writings (2 Corinthians 3:4; 7:16; 8:22; 10:2; 11:17; Galatians 5:10; Ephesians 3:12; 2 Thessalonians 3:4).

This verse can, however, be taken out of context. Paul's comment is specifically referring to the ability of a Christian to endure under hardship and persecution. Despite well-meaning use of the words, this text does not teach that a Christian is empowered to accomplish any task simply because they are saved.

Philippians 4:10–20 describes how Christians can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill through his many trials and ministry experiences. Paul also thanks the Philippians for their generosity, and expresses his confidence that God will bless them for it.

Paul specifically asks two Christian women, Euodia and Syntyche, to settle their personal dispute. Other Christians are encouraged to act as reasonable, Christ-filled people. Paul notes that his experiences have taught him to be content with whatever material blessings he has. This reliance on the power of Christ not only allows believers to be content, it produces peace in our relationships to other Christians. This also requires a deliberate choice to set our attention on positive things. Paul extends sincere thanks to the Philippians for their generous support.

After putting suffering and hardship into perspective in the previous three chapters, Paul now gives specific thanks to the Philippians for their support and generosity. Prior passages in this letter have explained concepts like humility and hope, as well as a focus on Christ. Positive attitudes, and beneficial thinking, are especially important. In this concluding section, Paul calls on the Philippians to act with ''reasonableness,'' especially as they handle disagreements within the church. Paul is confident that God will bless these faithful Christians for their generous support.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.