Scripture Text:
Paul writes to the Philippians that he has learned to be
"content whatever the circumstances". He says that he
knows "what it is to be in need, and ... what it is to have
plenty.... I can do everything through him who gives me
strength". (Philippians 4:11-14)
Thought:
We live here in "Ford Country", and they have a saying about
their trucks. They say they are "Built Ford Tough".
When I read the Bible, I am impressed by how many times we are told that
we are strengthened by God. Whether it is in the words of David's
Psalms, or in the illustration of the Christian armor, we are constantly
reminded that God gives us strength.
Paul gives these words to the Philippians to let them know that they
don't need to worry about him. But I find it encouraging to think
that we don't need to worry about ourselves, either. God, who can do
all, will also allow us to do everything we need to do.
These verses are sometimes misunderstood. Some would say "I
can't dunk a basketball, or I can't climb Mt. Everest, so how can he say
we can do 'everything'?". Simply put, this isn't saying we can
do everything we want to do. It is saying we can
do everything he needs us to.
Prayer:
Almighty God and Father, We recognize you as the source of all our
strength. We know your are our refuge. In you, we read, we can
do all things. Help us, Father, to recognized what you have planned
for us. Help us to recognize the things we can do in your
name. Grant us the wisdom, and the strength, to carry out your
mission on this earth. Let us not grow weary, but keep our mind on
you, the sustainer and giver of all good things. In Your Son's
name,
Amen.
