Hey and hello! How about we start with a confession? I must admit – I’ve never read the words that come before Philippians 4:13. I only knew the verse everyone uses:
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
As important and valuable as those words are – the words that come before ended up being pretty eye opening. They give weight to that broad statement and had me shaking my head in agreement as I read them.
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 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 him who strengthens me. -Philippians 4:11-13
YES YES YES! Raise your hand if you’ve been in any of these situations. I know I’m raising both hands! Now I feel like this last sentence has more weight. Instead of just “I can do all things…” it seems to be rooted in more reality with ups and downs and learning how to be content in all the seasons of change.
In the last 6 weeks I have been turned upside down because we suddenly needed to move from the rental we called home for 4 years. Needless to say, fear and anxiety flooded me. It definitely feels like I have been brought low. It is a new season and in this time of fear my only option is to face it with God next to me. He is ushering me and strengthening me in ways I could not imagine. He has surrounded me with people and comfort and knowledge and understanding. He’s so good that way!
Having the grace from Him has allowed me to cry and sulk as well as to be flexible and humble.
And now that I have a better understanding of this part of the verse – I decided that making it the main focus of my entry was A-OK! I may still be sad. I still get angry at this situation. But I can do this! I can abound. I have plenty. I can be content. Through Christ. Who strengthens me. That’s pretty powerful stuff!
My prayer and hope is that you can find the strength from God when you need it most!
See you next month!
Andrea
