Seeking God First Day 7
Scripture
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
I like researching the meaning of words so make no apology for using Bibe Hub Com it gave me a better understanding this verse.
Observation.
Paul most likely wrote this letter during his imprisonment in Rome around 61 A.D., when he was facing persecution from the government for preaching Christianity.
I can do all things. The Greek word for ‘can’ implies strength ability and power. Paul writes this letter while in prison yet speaks of a strength which comes from God and not himself.
Through Christ this phrase identifies the source of the strength. One cannot obtain strength through human effort, but only through a relationship with Jesus Christ and He is the mediator of this divine strength. It is through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection that believers are empowered to face life’s challenges. (Bible Hub Com)
Who gives me strength = “to empower or fill” Receiving this strength is not only a one time event but is a reminder that Christ’s strength is available to us at all times, But we need to seek him.
Isa 41:10 also speaks of Strengthen
- Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will surely help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
The promise “I will strengthen you” uses the Hebrew word “amats,” which means to be strong, alert, or courageous. This is not just physical strength but also emotional and spiritual fortitude. God promises to infuse His people with the strength needed to face any challenge, reflecting His role as a divine warrior and protector. (Bible Hub Com)
I will surely help you. The word “help” in Hebrew is “azar,” which means to support or assist.
It reflects God’s active involvement in the lives of His people, providing aid and support in times of need.
I will uphold you
“Uphold” comes from the Hebrew “tamak,” meaning to grasp or support. This conveys the image of God holding His people securely, preventing them from falling. It is a promise of stability and security, ensuring that they will not be overwhelmed by their adversities. (Bible Hub Com )
God strengthens us through His guidance, provision, protection, and presence, through inner peace, and through the encouragement and support of other believers.
Application
To Remind myself I do not get strength by my human efforts. “ I will strengthen you is not a one off event, but continues but I need to be active in seeking God. Seeking God strength is not just for physical strength, but also for mental and spiritual strength.
Prayer.
Father thank you that you are active in our lives and Jesus Christ, You are the mediator of this strength and power. It is through Your life, death and resurrection that I am strengthened to face life’s challenges. Help me to always seek You because without Your power and strength I can do nothing. Amen.