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ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST!
LORD’S DAY, JUNE 25
Philippians 4:10-13

John 15:1-8

 

“I can do all things through

Christ which strengtheneth me.”

 

ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST!
 
How was Paul able to be unwavering in his contentment? How did he manage to remain steadfast amidst such varied experiences? He explained in Philippians 4:13 that it was because his faith was anchored firmly upon Christ. As he looked to Christ, the difficulties and pains of the present were to him but a “light affliction” (2 Cor 4:17), and he reckoned that “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Rom 8:18). That was why he could so confidently proclaim that he could do all things through Christ who strengthened him.
 
This was by no means an arrogant boast of superhuman ability, or a self-help mantra he was repeating to convince himself. In the context where he made this statement, it was a confident assertion in the ability of Christ to strengthen him to endure the many trials of life that he was facing.
 
Literally, verse 13 can be translated as “I am having strength for all things, through Christ who is enabling me.” He recognised that it was Christ alone who was the One imbuing him with the patience and perseverance to be content and he knew how to abase and abound in all things. That was certainly a spiritual, and not physical, strength. It stemmed from his life and relationship with Christ and was what enabled him to face all his challenges with courage and steadfastness.
 
Indeed, all our ability to do anything at all in this life comes from Christ. As Jesus taught His disciples in John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” Without Christ, we are hapless and helpless. But through Christ who strengthens us, we can do all things for Him!
 
Therefore, as we seek to be content in all things, know that the only way we can achieve that is if we turn to Christ. It is only in Him alone that we can find true fulfilment and satisfaction in this life.
 
THOUGHT: Even my ability to live for Christ comes from Christ.
PRAYER: Father, help me always to be humble because I know that I am able to do anything only through Christ, and not of my own strength.

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