How Philippians 4:13 Changed My Perspective

“[“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil 4:13]”

This is what my journal and my keychain said. It’s what I told myself in HS as I turned the corner on the 10th 300 meter sprint of that afternoon’s practice. Most importantly, it’s what the Bible says. I knew this verse by heart and called it one of my favorites for years, but a few weeks ago I asked myself, “But do you believe it?”

“Well yes,” I thought to myself as I began to think back on so many times when telling myself and others this verse was such a great comfort.

“Then why do you worry?”

“[Matthew 6:34—Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.]”

It was time to actually believe, and more importantly, put Phil 4:13 into practice.

So many of us today are BUSY. At the end of the day I would take the time to pray, journal and read my Bible, but was I putting what I read into practice? I seemed to be stressed and overwhelmed all day.

I needed to shift my perspective and believe Phil 4:13.

I wrote to myself, “I will not let busyness, stress or pressure keep me from the day, the joy or the opportunity Jesus gave me today.”

Jesus isn’t going to take away our responsibilities or that busy schedule. Truth be told, even that hour or two of free time you would love to have would easily be filled with the next thing on your to do list, admit it.

Instead, look at the day ahead. Go over that to do list. Pray for strength the night before. Then, continue the next day knowing you CAN do anything because you have a powerful God on your side.

“[Philippians 4:6-7—Do not worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.]”

My prayer for you and myself today:

Lord,

Please help me to not neglect from inviting you into my day by recognizing your awesome strength and peace you so freely give. I ask, Lord, to be able to accomplish what I can today, but for your peace to flood my heart so that I am satisfied even with what I cannot accomplish in this day. Remind me when I doubt, worry or stress that I can do all things when I ask and receive your strength. Thank you Jesus for guiding my perspective.

Amen.