Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Faith that has to be Enriched
Jessie Samuel
St. Andrews MTC, NY
13. I can do all things
through him who strengthens me.
In
recent years, the highlighted verse of this passage has become very popular. We
use it all the time, and we hear celebrities quoting this verse everywhere.
But, what does it really mean? We know Paul was imprisoned during this time
when he wrote this letter. Being chained to a guard, day and night, must have
been difficult, much less imprisoned. In what context was Paul using this verse
when he wrote this letter to the Philippians?
At
its core, the imprisoned Paul had received a gift and he wrote a ‘thank you’
note in return. He accepted the Philippians’ gift because they gave it
willingly and because he was in need. He says he has learned to be content
whatever the circumstances (verse 10). Are we content in any circumstances we
face? Paul knew how to be satisfied whether he had plenty or whether he was in
need. Paul was content because he saw his life from God’s point of view.
He focused on what he was supposed to do, he had his priorities straight.
The
crux of this passage comes from Paul claiming that he can do everything through
Christ who gives him strength. Paul gains his strength from the faith he has in
Christ Jesus. As we continue along this path of faith, we will encounter
troubles and trials of many kinds. Ultimately, it comes down to what we do when
we are faced with these troubles.
By trusting in Christ, our attitudes can change to accepting His will
and plan for our lives to live for Him.
PRAYER
Father God, we thank You for
another day that You’ve given to us. Help us to understand what it means to
have our faith enriched in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Contentment is not
having all that you want. True contentment is wanting only what you have.