I won’t quibble with this one too much. It’s more of a frustration and personal pet peeve than it is dangerous. Obviously anytime we misuse God’s Word is dangerous, but unlike a previous post, this one doesn’t deal with salvation or the gospel.
This is one of those coffee cup, t-shirt verses people quote with a smile on their face. A lot of times it’s quoted because someone has a goal they want to accomplish (get a good job, get a promotion, do well on a test or presentation, get gains or lose weight at the gym, etc… or in more ridiculous cases… win a ballgame 🤦🏻). They want something positive to happen FOR THEM. They want things to go well FOR THEM. They want THEIR plans to succeed.
The Bible does say in Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me”. The phrase in question here is “all things”. So who is he talking to/about? And more importantly in this application, what is the topic being referenced? Applying our three rules for sound biblical interpretation; context, context, context… let’s see if we can identify what Paul means by “all things”.
Philippians 4:10-20 ESV [10] I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. [11] Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. [12] I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. [13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me. [14] Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. [15] And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. [16] Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. [17] Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. [18] I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. [19] And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. [20] To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
In context, as we can see, it’s not a promise from God that Paul would get anything that we would consider “good”. We also don’t see Paul standing in front of Castle Grayskull thrusting his sword in the air, quoting this verse for a power boost to accomplish a task (If you got that reference, congratulations, you are old! 🤣). He has learned the SECRET of contentment in ALL situations. He’s sharing with us something that the Holy Spirit has taught him throughout his life as a believer. What is this secret to contentment in ALL circumstances? Relying on and trusting in the strength of Christ; His power, His control of everything, His goodness toward His children. He’s talking about being able to endure ALL hardships in the strength and grace of Christ, as well as how to not forget Him and walk away when things are going well by that same grace and strength. Humility. He is stating his utter dependence on the strength of Christ to endure whatever his life of persecution/blessing may bring.
Does God give us the strength to endure difficult situations? Absolutely. Does He give us the strength to accomplish difficult tasks? Yes, If they are good and right and line up with His will. Can I do “all things” (do everything that I do in life day to day) in the strength that Christ gives? Yes. And we should all strive for that! Can I do or accomplish “all things” (anything I want or desire to do) as long as I trust in Jesus for a little turbo boost of strength? No. That’s not what Paul means.
While I appreciate the heart of someone’s genuine prayer to Christ for strength in all of life, God is not obligated to keep promises He didn’t make; to show up and grant us a favorable outcome.
The promise given here is not a promise to be able to do whatever we want to do in the strength of Christ. The promise is that Christ gives us the strength to be content in every situation and to faithfully endure difficult situations.
So, when troubles, hardships, and persecutions come our way (and they will), this is a beautiful promise from God that He will give us the grace and strength we need to endure. We will be able to call upon Him, rest in His peace, and by His strength… suffer well, remaining faithful to Him.