Living in Increase (Part 11) - Increase in JoySample

In Every Situation

No matter how long you’ve been walking with the Lord, I can imagine you’ve heard Philippians 4:13: “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” While it is true that we can do anything through the power that Jesus gives us, there is more context to this popular verse.

In Philippians 4, Paul writes to a church, explaining that he’s grateful for any support they will give him. Ultimately, however, he expresses that he is not dependent on what they give him. Instead, he is dependent on the strength of Christ, and he is convinced that Jesus’s power is all he needs because he has experienced it for himself. Paul knows what it means to “live on almost nothing or with everything.” He’s experienced abundance, and he’s experienced lack. Yet, he is convinced that Jesus’s strength is enough for him.

The perspective that Paul has is one we should all have. Regardless of our earthly circumstances, we can learn “the secret of living in every situation.” Whether we have excess or not enough, we can be content because we have Jesus! When we shift our focus to Jesus alone, we will realize how abundantly blessed we are, which is a perspective that can get us through any circumstance.

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Instead of asking God for something today, thank God for what you already have.