Contentment

Philippians 4:13 is a Bible verse that is frequently quoted in today’s popular culture. As students of the Bible, we must ask: Is the text being used in the context of Paul’s letter to the Philippians? Let’s review the passage and examine the context.

Paul begins his closing remarks by thanking the Philippians for their outpouring of concern towards his well-being (Philippians 4:10). He mentions that despite being in need, he has learned to be content in any situation (verse 11) because Christ strengthens him (verse 13).

Reading the main idea in verse 11, we can conclude that verse 13 is not a singular imperative. In other words, Paul is not saying that “he can do all things” because Christ will see him through. Instead, Paul reveals that, despite his circumstances, Christ has given him the strength to remain content.

After careful study of the passage, we conclude that using this verse, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” as a motivational mantra is a misuse of the passage. Furthermore, the use of the biblical verse for personal ambition or as a framework of motivation would be taking Paul’s writing outside its original context.

Our strength in Christ is not about aligning our personal ambitions, the likes of greed, or material gains; instead, it is about aligning our current circumstances to God’s purpose and sovereignty. For believers, it is knowing how to be content in every situation because Christ gives us strength through them.

After seeing the context of Philippians 4:13, how can believers use the verse accurately? The answer is in Paul’s main idea of the passage, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” As believers in Christ, when faced with life’s difficulties, we can have complete trust that God has given us grace in Jesus Christ, who strengthens us through the circumstances He has allowed in our lives. When we know this truth, we can say like Paul, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”

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