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Philippians 4:13 — "I Can Do All Things Through Christ"

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

PHILIPPIANS 4:13
KJV

What Does Philippians 4:13 Mean?

The apostle Paul wrote this verse from prison, expressing his contentment in all circumstances — whether in plenty or in want. "All things" does not mean unlimited power to achieve any personal goal, but rather the strength to endure every situation with grace. Through Christ who empowers him, Paul can face hunger, hardship, persecution, and imprisonment without losing faith or joy.

Application: This verse is not a promise of worldly success, but of spiritual resilience. It encourages believers that no matter what life throws at them, Christ provides the strength to persevere with faith and contentment.

Philippians 4:13 in Context

Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
Philippians 4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Philippians 4:14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.
Philippians 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

Showing context from the King James Version (KJV)

Philippians 4:13 in 4 Translations

KJV

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

— Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
BSB

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

— Philippians 4:13 (BSB)
WEB

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

— Philippians 4:13 (WEB)
ASV

“I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.”

— Philippians 4:13 (ASV)

Related Topics

Strength Identity Healing & Strength

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "all things" mean in Philippians 4:13?

In context, "all things" refers to enduring all circumstances — abundance or need, comfort or suffering. Paul is saying he can handle any situation through Christ's strength, not that he can accomplish any personal ambition.

Who wrote Philippians 4:13?

The apostle Paul wrote this verse as part of his letter to the church in Philippi, while he was imprisoned in Rome around 61-62 AD.

Is Philippians 4:13 about athletic or career success?

No. While often quoted in sports and motivational contexts, the verse is about spiritual contentment and endurance through hardship, not achieving worldly goals. Paul's point is that Christ gives him strength to remain faithful in every season.

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