Break It Down: Philippians 4:13
One thing I love about the Help Club for Moms is that it’s practical. Mom or not, we all need help knowing how to live out God’s Word daily. The world is only getting louder and more erratic. God’s Truth is sure and steady. His voice often comes gently.
So how do we live out quiet, steadfast Truth in a busy world - or in my busy house!?! You break it down. Small changes will change you.
Here’s a breakdown we did in last week’s Thankful Thursday on Philippians 4:13 using the Amplified version. The more traditional translations of this verse are commonly known, but I’ve always interpreted them incorrectly.
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 ESV
I’ve always read this verse as, “If I can’t do it all, I must not be close enough to God.” I should do more to be closer to God. And then I should be able to do “all things”. And then if I can’t do all the things I should be doing, I should do more to get closer to God... and the vicious cycle continues! Reading the Amplified version was a game changer for me, as it expands on the meaning of the words within the text.
Here it is. (If this blog is helpful to you, try to memorize it this week!)
“I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose— I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]” Philippians 4:13 AMP
Doesn’t that sound refreshing and empowering!?! Now, let’s break it down, and do something with it:
I can do all things - which He has called me to do
What has he called you to do in this season of your life? Write it down.
What does that look like today? This week? This month? Plan for it. Write that down too.
through Him who strengthens and empowers me to fulfill His purpose
Strengthen yourself in the Lord!
Worship is the best way to do that. Turn on worship music and sing, whether you’re in the shower or traffic.
Put yourself around people who are strong in the Lord. Be actively involved in church. Join a small group. Read the Help Club book if you’re a mom. Pray with someone.
I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency
Get still and quiet for a minute before God. Ask Him and yourself if there is anything you are trying to do in your own strength and you need to let go of? If anything pops into your mind, give it back to God. He is so much more kind and loving than we are to ourselves.
Another simple and practical tool to remember God’s holiness is fasting! The Help Club for Moms has just initiated the September fasting collective. That simply means fasting 1 meal/week and spending that mealtime with God. Click here to access more info and a podcast you can listen to during that time. (Not just for moms!)
I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.
This is so powerful! How can you write it into your heart in a way that it will stick? Maybe it’s writing it in a journal, using music, or memorizing it with your kids by making fun gestures like muscle-flexing.
I like to write Scripture in first person to make it personal. This line is already personalized for you and true to who you are!
God’s Word is living, active and sharper than any double-edged sword. It binds the broken-hearted. It brings life and not death. Does anybody need more of that!?! Picking one verse to break down and do something with can change everything!