March 27 – Fruit of Knowing

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”  Philippians 4:13 (NASB)

Let’s take a bit of time to think about what this verse means.  It is likely one of the most quoted in times when we are challenged with difficult circumstances and need encouragement.  However, it is also likely a verse that is too frequently misquoted, misunderstood, misapplied. From Paul's letter to the church in Philippi recorded in the New Testament.  Let's understand Paul's purpose and meaning, and his circumstances – in a Roman prison chained to a Roman guard waiting for his trial before Caesar. Paul is not writing about how one can literally do anything they put their minds to simply because they are in Christ. This is not a Christian’s version of “were there’s a will there’s a way” because that too is a false hope. Paul is talking about contentment in any circumstances he finds himself. This is the affirmation and acknowledging of the means by which we, in our own weaknesses and sufferings, will received strength, support and the ability to be content, and also to remain standing – just as Paul had.  We are promised to possess contentment as fruit out of the root which comes with the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:8)

# # #

Gleaned from an article by Grayson Gilbert 2/25/2020