Why Does God Strengthen Us?

August 1, 2007 by Pastor Matt.

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

Often times, we hear this verse being used in the context of trying to accomplish some great feat.  “I can pull a bus 100ft. because God strengthens me.” or “I am really good at basketball because God strengthens me.”  or “I’m really buff because God strengthens me.”  It is true that you can do nothing without the grace of God and God is the one who allows you to excel in whatever area you apply yourself, but these are not the reasons He strengthens you.

Most of the time this is the favorite verse of someone who is involved in some type of competition where physical strength is needed.

Look at the verses that come before verse 13, starting in 11.
“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.  I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.”
 

The strength that God gives us is for the purpose of being content in whatever circumstances we find ourselves in.  It is for the purpose of understanding that God has us right where He wants us to be.  It is not for the purpose of excelling in a sport.
 

It takes the strength of God to fully rely on God when things are going well in your life.
 

It takes the strength of God to be content and praise God when your world is falling apart.
 

You see, God gave Paul strength, not so that he might lead 20 more people to the Lord, but to help him be content in whatever circumstances he finds himself in.
 

How does God strengthen you?
 

What evidences have you seen of God strengthening you?
 

When have you been tempted to go it on your own instead of relying on God’s strength?
 

Do you thank God for strengthening you to make the right decision in times of trial?
 

2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’  Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”
 

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