I can do all things through Christ

We can be content in any circumstance because of the strength Christ gives us.

Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all this by the power of Christ. He gives me strength." Other versions of the Bible say, "I can do all things through Christ." Does this mean we can do whatever comes into our minds, like fly up into the sky or swim across the entire ocean? What does "all things" mean in this verse?

In order to understand what a Bible verse is saying, it helps to look at the verses around it. This is called the "context." Look at Philippians 4:12: "I know what it’s like not to have what I need. I also know what it’s like to have more than I need. I have learned the secret of being content no matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am content whether I have more than enough or not enough." So in verse 13, Paul is saying that he can live with a little or a lot because Christ gives him the strength to be content no matter what situation he finds himself in.

The main focus in Philippians 4 is what Christians can do through the strength that Christ gives. We are not promised that we will have superpowers or that we will be invincible or never have problems. Paul himself went through many difficulties (see 2 Corinthians 11:24-27). Instead, the promise of Philippians 4:13 is that we will have strength from Jesus to faithfully live through any hard times that come.

Jesus is able to meet all of our needs. He can help us do all things through His strength. In Paul’s case, it was the strength to serve as a missionary in spite of facing very hard times. In our lives, this same strength is available. Whether we serve in another country or help someone in our own neighborhood or school, Christ’s power can help us to stand firm on His promises and go through life's most difficult challenges.