The True Meaning of the Scripture, “I Can Do All Things Through Christ”

Philippians 4:13 is one of the most well-known verses in the Bible.

Philippians 4:13 (ESV)

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

It is often quoted in motivational speeches, printed on sports jerseys, and used to inspire success in various achievements - "I can do all things through Christ!"

While this verse is powerful and encouraging, its true meaning is often misunderstood.

When examined in context, Philippians 4:13 has a different approach and application that could carry us through any situation in life.

The Context of Philippians 4:13 (I Can Do All Things Through Christ)

To fully grasp the meaning of Philippians 4:13, we must look at the surrounding verses.

In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul writes:

Philippians 4:11–13

11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Paul is not speaking about winning victories in sports or achieving personal ambitions.

He is speaking about contentment in every circumstance—whether having plenty or having little, experiencing joy or facing hardship.

The “all things” Paul refers to are the various circumstances of life, whether favorable or challenging.

His declaration in verse 13 is a statement of trust:

No matter what situation he finds himself in, Christ will give him the strength to endure and remain faithful.

The Power of Christ’s Strength in Difficulties

Many people today face struggles—financial hardship, illness, loss, or uncertainty about the future.

For those going through trials, Philippians 4:13 serves as a powerful reminder that our ability to persevere does not come from our own strength but from Christ.

Paul himself endured shipwrecks, imprisonments, beatings, and rejection (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

Yet, through it all, he remained steadfast because of Christ’s strength within him.

Whether we are celebrating a season of abundance or walking through a valley of suffering, we can find contentment and endurance through Christ.

Applying Philippians 4:13 to Our Lives

I want to break this scripture down into three points for you to consider whenever you are in a difficult season in life or perhaps a season of favor and blessing.

I believe if you remember these three things you can navigate anything that comes your way:

1. Contentment in Every Season

Instead of viewing Philippians 4:13 as a promise of success, we should see it as a call to trust God in all circumstances.

Whether we have much or little, or face joy or sorrow, our contentment is found in Christ, not in our external circumstances.

2. Relying on Christ’s Strength

Life presents challenges that are too great for us to handle alone.

However, we do not have to rely on our own abilities.

Just as Paul found strength in Christ, we too can lean on Him during hardships, trusting that He will sustain us.

3. Don’t lose focus

If you are facing trials today, be encouraged that you are not alone.

Christ is with you, giving you the strength to endure.

Your hope is not in changing circumstances but in the unchanging power of Christ who strengthens you.

Conclusion

Philippians 4:13 is not a promise of success in worldly pursuits but a declaration of dependence on Christ through all of life’s circumstances.

Whether in abundance or need, triumph or trial, Christ’s strength enables us to persevere.

This truth is far greater than achieving victories in sports or career goals—it is the assurance that no matter what we face, we can endure because of Christ.

If you are in a season of difficulty, hold on to this promise: Christ will strengthen you, and in Him, you will find the grace to stand firm in every situation.