CAN YOU REALLY?

It is one of the most quoted verses of the Bible. It is heard in the church, has been translated in various texts, shouted in prayer, spoken in basic conversation amongst friends; oftentimes people probably mean it when they speak the words. But the words hold no meaning until some faith and action are put behind them.  Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” The words remain hollow without action and without Him.

The verse itself demands action on the part of the believer. It does not say “I can have,” nor does it say “I can make, say, hope,” or any other verb. The verse says “I can do.” Doing something requires one to execute or perform, and the action is doubly qualified with the word can which is having the ability to do something. What is more gratifying about this verse is the unlimited potential of what can be done…not some things, but all things!

We choose to call upon our own power which is nothing compared to the one whose “hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all” (see 1 Chronicles 29:11-13).  Without the strength of God’s power working in our lives, we become weary, we fail, we blame others, we make excuses, and we waste time and opportunity. We get very little done.

The Good News is that our strength is to be found in Christ Jesus; the sacrificial love He showed on the cross equips us with the strength to “do all things.” We just have to believe it and know that He is able. And if there is ever any doubt in our hearts, consider the father whose son was afflicted with a spirit since childhood. This man said to Jesus, “…but if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us” (see Mark 9:22). Well Jesus was more than capable, and He drove the spirit out of the son. He could do something about the situation and He did. And when the disciples asked Him why they could not drive out the spirit, Jesus replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting” (see Mark 9:29).

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  Do not ever say it again if there is no willingness to take action. The words are wonderful and are a heartfelt expression that we say and pray; but the words themselves are not enough to make it happen. We must take action and move, just as Jesus does whenever we call out to Him in prayer. He can, and He will! Trust in Him!

Scripture: “If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23 NIV

Prayer: Father God, we call on you to give us the strength where we are weak. Many of us are longing for something in our lives, but have not had the willingness to step out on faith. We cry out to you Oh God, depending on your strength to help us turn our prayer requests into actions and deeds. Order our steps Father God, that your will may be done in our lives from this moment forward, and continue to bless us in all that we say and do for your kingdom. Because we can do all things in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Read Mark 9:14-29 for further study of Christ’s strength at work.