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One of the most common Bible Verses put on Social Media, Tattoos, Home Decor and more. Philippians 4:13 is a well-known and encouraging Bible verse to say the least. But I believe the best way to understand a single verse is to get the context behind it.
The Apostle Paul was writing the book of Philippians while in prison and wrote to thank the Philippian Church for helping him financially. Knowing this, it brings about a new meaning to Phil. 4:13. Now let’s look at the verses prior to 13.
Paul Writes in Philippians 4:4-7, “4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Now imagine, you are in prison, alone and afraid. I would think it would be pretty difficult to be so joyous in such a situation, but Paul clearly has his heart set on the goal of furthering God’s kingdom and we should too. He urges us to pray, speak to God, and let his peace be with us. Later on in Philippians 4 Paul writes this,
Philippians 4: 11-12, “11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.”
This is where the good stuff is! Paul says, “I have learned to be content with whatever I have”. Woah! The context behind Philippians 4:13 is not just a story of success or being strong to overcome others. It is about thankfulness, being content with what you have, and learning to be strong in the Lord! Being able to trust the Lord will provide and strengthen you no matter the circumstances that surround you. Living like Paul can be hard especially in an instant gratification, money driven, and broken world. But having our hearts set on God’s plan and not our own creates gratitude for all that we have and humility in our hearts.
Pray: Lord, thank you for the truth and lessons taught through Paul’s life. I pray that I may live in gratitude, humility, and thankfulness for all that you have blessed me with. Teach me to live like Paul and set my heart on your Kingdom. Thank you for renewing my strength and supplying me with all that I need. Amen!
With Lots of Love,
Georgia Zeleskey
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