You may have been getting this popular bible verse all wrong 😳

Hi everyone, welcome to the first post in our series called De-Instagramming the Bible, where we take a look at verses we often take out of context and see how their meanings change in the proper contexts.

This week we are looking at Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

This verse is often quoted as inspiration or after someone has achieved something great as a way of giving thanks to God for their triumph. While that concept is good and found in other places in the Bible, Paul had a different message in mind when he wrote these words.

In the verses preceding it, Paul thanks the church in Philippi for their concern for him as he is in prison, but lets them know that he has learned how to be at peace no matter what his circumstances. This is the context in which this verse is written, as the secret to true contentment is found not just in success, but also in hardships and trials. Paul trusts in the Lord to give him the strength to walk the path he has laid before him each and every day, no matter what that path requires of him. Some translations even replace the word “do” with the word “endure,” drastically shifting the tone of the individual verse.

Alongside this, Paul follows up this verse by commending the Philippians for their thoughtfulness and for sharing in his struggles with him. We all too often get caught up in the “I” of this verse and make God’s strength and endurance individual gifts that we can’t share with others. We make overcoming trials or achieving something great individual efforts, when they should never be. Christ’s church is meant to be one body, with individuals sharing all things, good and bad, with one another so that burdens can be eased, and glory can be shared.

So, when you see this verse from now on, try to read it as a reminder of God’s providence and sovereignty, that no situation you are in is outside of his control, and that just as he has led you into this season of triumph or trials, he will lead you out of it. As he does, seek out your brothers and sisters in Christ so they may share in your journey with you, holding you upright in days of hardship and lifting you up in days of joy, and all the while pointing you back to the God who sustains you.

-Matt May