Yes, I can!

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. — Philippians 4:13 NIV

I can do all things … really, not me. I cannot climb a mountain or cure cancer. I cannot fix the world or bring peace. There is a long list of things I cannot do. I cannot make it through this world on my own strength. I falter and fail. I cannot stand against the evil in this world. Relying on myself never ends well.

I had a misconception about this verse. I spent many years thinking that I could achieve any goal through Christ, who “achieves all things." However, this verse means more than what it appears at first glance.

Instead of a promise to achieve our goals, it emphasizes the inner strength we find in Christ in times of trial and hardship, as well as in times of contentment and peace. We always need to rely on Christ for our strength.

As I look back on the many years of my life, I can see clearly the times when I relied on Christ for my strength and when I didn’t. Every time I have relied on myself, I have fallen flat. I have discovered that my thoughts and solutions, relying on my strength and knowledge, usually end in disaster.

When I allowed Christ the opportunity to provide me with the strength and power I needed, the goals were achieved, and He was glorified.

Before my son was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome (an autism spectrum disorder), our family went through a troublesome time. We were getting calls from the school, talking to his teachers; there were anger issues, and he didn’t play well with his peers. One school even kicked him out. We didn’t know what to do. The tension was unbearable. Most schools didn’t recognize autism spectrum disorders.

We tried to get through this situation on our own, and it nearly tore our family apart. We finally broke down and gave it to God. He provided us with the inner strength we needed and the guidance to make the right decisions. Finally, our son could get the diagnosis and treatment he needed to thrive. He graduated from high school and college and lives a productive life.

Not all situations are that extreme, but some are more intense. Regardless of what stage of life you are in or how big or small the challenge is, relying on God’s strength is key. We easily forget the strength we find in the Lord during peaceful, happy times. Maybe during these times, we need Him the most, so we don’t start relying on ourselves again. As you look at this verse in the future, read it with fresh eyes and a new perspective. Actual strength comes from Christ, during good times and bad. He knows our goals and our needs and will provide.

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Prayer: Lord, grant me the wisdom and discernment I need as I approach my daily tasks and challenges. Whether I am experiencing trials or times of contentment. Remind me to always remember, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13. Please remind me to pray this verse over myself and my family, so that you are glorified in all we say and do, and that your strength will be the basis of our daily walk. Bless our goals to align with the goals you have for us and the life we live for you. Show us how to be an example to others. Let us recognize our weakness may be the beginning of a strength that only you can provide and a peace that only you can give us. Guide us so that we may influence others on their journey.

Your Turn: Do you rely on your own strength or the strength you receive through Christ when life is challenging? How about when everything is going smoothly? Do you allow Christ’s strength to be your foundation when approaching daily life? Are your goals aligned with Christ’s goals?