Philippians 4:13 Doesn't Mean God Will Help Your Team Win

Explaining what Paul meant in this popular verse.

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Philippians 4:13 is perhaps the second most popular verse behind John 3:16.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

This verse is commonly used in team settings, especially in sports. I’m thankful that at least Scripture is being used, but we must know what a passage actually means. After all - even the devil knows some Scripture (Matthew 4:6).

The Context of Philippians 4:13

Paul wrote to “all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons” (Philippians 1:1). He expressed how thankful he was for this church and reminded them of the joy they ought to have in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4).

They had helped Paul with his financial needs while he traveled, and he was thankful for their help.

But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. (Philippians 4:10)

When they had an opportunity, they sent help to the apostle Paul. The times that he was in need had helped Paul learn to be content.

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. (Philippians 4:11-12)

While Paul was grateful for their support, he was also thankful that he had learned how to be content regardless of his financial position. He had experienced what it was like to have more than he needed and far less than what he needed. He had learned to be content in both situations.

In the context of being content with little or much, Paul said:

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

The Application of Philippians 4:13

If you receive a raise in pay, be thankful and be content. If your company had to cut your salary to make ends meet, be grateful and be content.

If things go your way, or if they don’t - it’s all the same. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Paul’s point is a reminder that our life is not all about money. It’s a reminder that we don’t depend upon this world’s resources. Our life is Christ (Philippians 1:21). Our rejoicing is in the Lord (Philippians 4:4). Whatever we have - however little or much - is a blessing to give thanks for.

So the next time you read Philippians 4:13, remember what it teaches.

Remember to be thankful for little and for much. Remember that your joy in Christ is not connected to how many dollars you have in your bank account or how many zeros are on your paycheck.