Philippians 4:13 Meaning: What "I Can Do All Things" Really Means

Philippians 4:13 is one of the most quoted verses in sport and motivation. But Paul was not talking about winning a match. He was talking about something even better.

The verse

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13, BSB)

The context

Paul wrote Philippians while he was in chains. In the verses just before this one (Philippians 4:11-12), he explains that he has learned to be content whatever his situation: when he has plenty and when he has little, when he is well fed and when he is hungry. Verse 13 is his secret. Christ gives him the strength to face every circumstance.

What it means

• It is about contentment and endurance, not about getting everything we want.

• Strength comes from Christ, not from ourselves.

• It covers the hard seasons as well as the good ones.

• Contentment is learned over time; Paul says he "learned" it.

Living it out

Think of one situation where you feel you do not have enough: time, money, patience or strength. Pray this verse over it. Ask Christ for the strength to be faithful and content in it today.

A short prayer

Lord Jesus, I cannot face everything on my own. Thank You that You give me strength. Teach me to be content and faithful in every situation. Amen.

Related verses

• 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

• Isaiah 40:31

• Philippians 4:6-7

Scripture quotations on this page are from the Berean Standard Bible (BSB), which is in the public domain.

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