Bible Study & Devotional 276
Guiding Scripture: Philippians 4:11-13, 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 circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance, and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Content in Every Situation
By contributing writer: Detria Moore
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 is a popular bible verse. People like to quote it when they are going through difficult situations and desiring a positive outcome. Or when obstacles were before them and it’s challenging to navigate. Usually, the expectation is that victory is on the other side of the obstacle.
But to fully understand the meaning of verse 13,
we must look at in context with verses 11 and 12. Paul is writing to the church at Philippi, and he says to them that he’s not talking about being in need because he has learned how to be content in every situation. This word content means sufficient for oneself; strong enough; processing enough to need no aid or support; independent of external circumstances; contended with one’s lot and means, even if it’s the slenderest. * Paul didn’t have much opportunity to ask them for assistance because he didn’t have much need.
Essentially, Paul says he’s learned to be satisfied no matter the situation.
Whatever he faces, he has enough and is satisfied. His satisfaction is independent of external circumstances. Whether he has much or little, he’s content. Whether food is in abundance or scarce, he’s content. That means he’s learned how to be satisfied. It is why he tells them he’s not speaking in terms of need. Because he doesn’t have a sense of needing anything when he’s already learned to be content with whatever he has. And the reason he can do this is that Christ has strengthened him.
So when we recite, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” what are we really saying?
- What does our all really encompass?
- Is it just asking the Lord to help us get through the difficult time so we can be blessed on the other side of it?
- How many of us ask to be brought low?
- How many of us are content being hungry?
- How many of us are satisfied being in need?
We’re often busy looking for victory on the other side, when sometimes, God wants us to be content with what we have, no matter how small or great.
*Strong’s Concordance
The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Monday, October 3, 2022
Jeremiah 1:1-2:30, Philippians 4:1-23, Psalm 75:1-10, Proverbs 24:17-20
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
Connect with Detria Moore at www.detriamoore.com
Detria Moore, J.D. is a believer, wife, mother, college professor, intercessor, community servant, writer, speaker, and volunteer of all things. Above all else, she is enamored with her Savior. Her main goal is to serve the Lord, walk in a manner worthy of her calling, and bring glory to her Savior. Detria enjoys reading and teaching the Bible, praying for others, and walking the Lynchburg trails.
