Philippians 4:13

September 23, 2011 — 0 Comments

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
- Philippians 4:13

It’s one of the most oft-quoted scriptures in the Bible, and for good reason – we can do anything through him who strengthens us. But all too often, we use it wildly out of context.

  • We will win this game, because we can do all things through him who strengthens us.
  • I will get this job, because I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
  • You can beat this sickness, because you can do all things through him who strengthens you.
  • I will win this election, because I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

The other day I was listening to Joe Thorn talk about contentment , and rather than read only verse 13, he read verses 10-13.

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 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. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
- Philippians 4:10-13

Paul wasn’t merely saying you can achieve your goals and dreams, and overcome adversity through him who strengthens you; rather, he was saying regardless of what comes your way – sickness or health, loss or gain, poverty or abundance, enemies or friends – you can face any situation through him who strengthens you.

In Dreams, Life, Religion

Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven, but Nobody Wants to Die

July 17, 2011 — 0 Comments

Yet another in a long line of “I went to Heaven, met Jesus and came back” books. I wonder if the last name of the authors is any indication of the book’s content?

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In Church, Dreams, Jesus

Death

April 11, 2011 — 0 Comments

So, the other night, I had an odd dream. I usually forget my dreams within minutes of waking up, so the fact that I still remember it makes it that much more odd. I figured, just in case it means anything, it might be a good idea to put it out there for posterity, so here goes.

This all takes place on the street I live on. It’s the early part of dawn, when the first rays of sunlight mix with the last bit of moonlight. It’s foggy, and in the background I can faintly hear the last few notes of Amazing Grace being played on bagpipes. Walking (or was he floating) toward me slowly is Death. And not Death from Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey, or the Family Guy version, but an actual creepy, intimidating version (think of the Nazgul/ringwraiths in Lord of the Rings).

And then I woke up.

I’m not sure if it even means anything; I do know it didn’t leave me feeling fearful, which is good. I was able to fall back asleep almost immediately. The street I live on does have a high rate of car accidents, with many being fatal, so maybe it has to do with that. Oh well.

In Dreams