stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 4:13)

I’ll never forget seeing “Philippians 4:13” written on a sign in the end zone section of a pro football game. I was about thirteen when a missionary in my church read that verse the same Sunday morning. He explained the nearly impossible circumstances of sharing the gospel in the 10/40 window (basically North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia). Two-thirds of the world’s population lives there, and they are the most gospel unengaged and unreached people on the planet. 90% of the world’s poorest lives there. As he shared Philippians 4:13, my heart beat fast in my chest, and my eyes were the size of half a dollar as his faith increased mine. As I watched the game that night, my question was, “What does Philippians 4:13” have to do with football? Does “I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength” apply equally to taking the gospel to the hardest to reach places on earth and scoring touchdowns?

The Apostle Paul didn’t have football (or excelling at any other sport for that matter) in mind when he wrote Philippians 4:13. He did, however, have in mind taking the gospel to the hardest to reach places on the planet. As Paul explained his contentment under severe persecution and resistance toward advancing the gospel while in prison, his faith rose beyond his circumstances. He sincerely believed God could strengthen him to accomplish God’s will and calling on his life. 

Paul did not mean there was nothing he could not do. He didn’t want to use this verse as a magic wand to wave wildly at whatever he wanted to undertake. He was careful not to misapply this as a blanket mantra to cover things outside the will of God. We only have the power to accomplish what is in the will of God. In context, this verse is connected to the ones around it. Paul was confident he could be content in any circumstance (v. 12). He knew Christ could help him remain focused on the gospel without being distracted by the lack of food, prison, persecution, or poverty. Christ would supply all needed to advance the gospel in a way that most glorified Him (v. 19).  

We use Philippians 4:13 out of context so many times. The gospel’s advancement during the most challenging situations is at the core of discipleship and trust. We probably only realize our dependence upon Christ in difficulties. Christ’s help isn’t just for what we think we need it for. If we expand the gospel message to the hardest reached places, we need a God Who is strong enough to breach the toughest of opposition. Thank You, Jesus, for Your ability to move beyond any barrier so others will come to Christ. May we pray and use Philippians 4:13 for that purpose.

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Have you ever misapplied Philippians 4:13?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Pray for God to strengthen you so you are empowered to take the gospel anywhere He leads.

Action for the Hands (Do)

• What do you need Philippians 4:13 strength for? Find a hard place (or person) to share the gospel with this week. Pray Philippians 4:13.