This is one of my all-time favorite passages.
Philippians 4:12-13
"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. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Somehow, we tend to equate strength with prosperity and blessing. We take what comes our way and make it part of our character as if the material circumstances of our lives actually mean anything. Oh, don't get me wrong. I like nice things like paychecks, food anytime I want it, a house, car, boat, and a bike. But should it all be taken, as it is happening to many, will I be any less a man of faith? Now that is the question.
Paul's confession is that he'd learned how to handle both need and abundance. His attitude remained the same in both. I believe he was thankful when he was blessed, and expectant when he was lacking in the accoutrements of life. In any and all situations, his strength came from Christ. He was strong in the inner man. His character was solidly Godly.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" is just that. I can do, or go through anything because Christ's strength is at work within me. Thank God for that! How about you? Do you get low in spirit when things don't seem to go according to your expectations? If so, seek out Jesus. Other things quickly become less important when you are in his strong presence.
Pastor Jim
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