I Can Do All Things

Read Philippians 4:10-13

Not that I am referring to be in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is like to have little, and I know what it is like to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:11-13 (NRSV)

Peter Caligiuri lives in Florida. In the last week of his dad's life, he didn't complain as he lay in the ICU. Instead, he wanted to be sure that Peter was getting enough rest at night and that he understood how to handle the affairs of his home. Some days he asked to hear scripture read aloud. He loved Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through [Christ] who strengthens me." He repeated those words with a calm confidence that his Good Shepherd would lead him along the last stretch of his path on earth.

The apostle Paul had experienced a series of unusual circumstances. He recalled his successes and failures, the times when his cupboard was bare and the times friends provided him home-cooked meals. Yet despite everything he faced, Paul shows us that when we learn to trust in Christ we find contentment.

In whatever we face today God is always at work - both in us and in our circumstances. With God's help, we all will be able to say, "It really is true! I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!"

Prayer: God of strength, open our hearts so that we may learn contentment. Help us always to trust in you and your Son, who strengthens us, in Jesus' name. Amen.